Driving technology in stage and entertainment automation

Used all over the world in the most prestigious theatres, sporting venues, movie production sets and theme parks, Nidec Drives drive and motor solutions have been key components in the automation of entertainment related industries over the last three decades. The Sydney Opera House, Hollywood blockbuster films and the Super Bowl have benefited from our reliable and precise motion control.

Evolving technology has contributed to higher levels of performance, creating ever-more complex motion and synchronisation with scenery, props, lighting and sound. This has helped to capture the perfect shot or shape the possibilities of dramatic effect in theatrical and amusement park installations. Simultaneously, it has ensured the safety of performers, audiences and thrill-seekers in many indoor and outdoor venues, on land and even at sea.

Key benefits

• Silent operation of automation equipment during performances
• Increased safety systems where people and heavy moving parts are in close proximity
• Maximising the capacity of venues with more stage performances possible and quicker production changeovers
• Modularisation and distributed control of stage solutions to maximise flexibility and touring capabilities
• Enhancing reliability and repeatability of equipment
• Easier and reduced maintenance of stage effects
• Compact equipment in locations where space is at a premium
• Energy saving solutions through the use of drive regeneration capabilities
• Angular precision and smooth motions
• High power to weight ratio

Typical applications

• Stage and scenery automation for theatres, cruise ships and touring performances
  • Upper/lower stage machinery, hoists and platform control
    • Moving/animated set pieces
    • Flying actors
  • Stage elevators
  • Lighting rigging and array automation
  • Multiple backdrops/screen operation
  • Curtain control with automatic safety features
• Sports simulators
• Theme park rides
• Film stunts often involving rigging and accurate hoist control
• Animatronics control

Case Studies 

Ball pitching machine

Pitch perfect control for batters of all levels

Unidrive the star performer at the Asian Games opening ceremony

In 2023, over 12,000 athletes from 45 countries gathered in Hangzhou, China, to compete in the 19th Asian Games.

Day tripper's dream

After 200,000 trips 30-year-old drive gets a refurb

Fan power keeps dutch skydivers flying high

Drives produce 2.4MW of power to generate wind speeds up to 250km/h

Stage effects lift music productions

Control Techniques motion control creates modern and elaborate stage effects