Absolute Motion Control were approached by Production Manager Chris Hay to supply the automation package for the UK premiere of Next to Normal. Having originally debuted on Broadway in April 2009, the Donmar Warehouse production required four positional, variable speed scenic roller blinds, fitted to the set to reveal dynamic locations throughout the show and serve as video projection surfaces.

With engineering by Deadline Technical Management, each blind was capable of 460mm/s, and precise position control ensured exact repeatability night after night. The system was operated via a Desk[Pad], allowing discreet backstage control where floor space is always at a premium.

Following a successful run at the Donmar, Absolute Motion Control were invited back for the West End transfer, which played at Wyndham’s Theatre from 18 June to 21 September 2024. On this occasion, the company additionally supplied a control package for the revolve, a central element of Set and Costume Designer Chloe Lamford’s design. With a requirement to operate at very slow speeds, the revolve was powered by several friction drive units, with an external encoder providing precise position control. Having all axes controlled from a single interface meant the entire show could be operated by just one person.