Background Video Projection for High School Musicals
Many musical directors have imagined how easy it would be to project scenery behind the cast instead of building and moving physical sets. It sounds like a perfect solution: faster scene changes, less labor, and more time to focus on the performance itself. Video projection can absolutely enhance a production, but it’s not always as simple as setting up a projector and pressing play. Let’s walk through what’s really involved.
First, a quick but important note about content.
Any video or imagery you use must be properly licensed. You can’t use clips or backgrounds from a movie or musical without permission. Those materials are protected by copyright, and rights holders, like Disney and others, require licensing through their theatrical or educational departments. This step has to be handled before anything else moves forward.
The next question is how to project it on stage.
Putting a projector on a cart at the front of the stage won’t work. Performers will walk through the beam of light, creating shadows and blocking the image. That option usually gets ruled out very quickly.
Rear projection is often the next idea. In this setup, the projector sits behind a special screen so the image shines through from the back. While this does solve the shadow problem, most school stages simply aren’t deep enough to make it work. Rear projection needs a lot of space behind the screen, and most auditoriums just don’t have it.
Mounting a projector on the ceiling is another possibility. This can work well if the projected image is placed high above the performers. However, it doesn’t allow images to appear directly behind the actors, which is often what directors are hoping for when replacing physical scenery.
This is where the "Ultra Short Throw" Projector comes in.
The best solution in many cases is a bright projector designed to work from very close to the screen.
They can be mounted close to the stage and still create a large image, reducing shadows and keeping the visuals where the audience expects to see them, pictured to the right.
Mounting the Projector
With a UST projector, a 25 foot image can be achieved with a throw distance of around 10 to 12 feet. Because the projector is so close to the screen, it can often be mounted directly to a stage truss. This keeps the equipment out of the way and prevents performers from casting shadows. The ultra short throw projectors we rent include proper rigging hardware to simplify installation and improve safety.
Now it's time to display the content!
If your laptop or media player is located offstage to the left or right, a long HDMI cable is usually sufficient. If the device is located in a control booth at the back of the room, a video extender is typically used to maintain signal quality over longer distances.
And that's it!
Purchasing vs. Renting
Purchasing a system like this can easily run upwards of $30,000, so in many cases we have found renting on a per-show basis to be more practical. The rental cost would be closer to 10% of that.
Timing your Rental
If you are renting this equipment, it is best to receive it at least one week before your production. This allows time for safe installation, whether completed by your staff or by Francis AV. It also provides time to practice using the system during rehearsals.
Final Thoughts
Projection does not have to be complicated or intimidating. With proper planning, the right equipment, and time to rehearse, it can be a reliable and effective part of your production. If you are considering background projection for an upcoming musical or graduation ceremony, working with an experienced AV partner can make all the difference.
