No matter the tour, no matter the artist –even our most dynamic of shows start with a special effects idea.
Something a touring manager, designer or artist wants to bring to the stage. Something audiences have never seen before. It can come from anywhere – a client, a contractor, another company we partner with, or someone from the Pyrotek team. What’s really exciting (and challenging) for us is creating an idea so big and so realistic that it has the power to create a reaction. It’s one thing to dream up an idea. It’s another to take that dream and make it real. We specialize in both.
When it comes to pyrotechnics and flames, big ideas often start as smaller sparks – even when they ignite into incredibly high shooting flames or a blazing ring of fire. As a trusted special effects provider, we know how important it is to make sure the vision doesn’t die out. We’ve all seen examples where the picture in someone’s mind don’t match up with the real thing. You’ve probably experienced this in your day-to-day life. Designers and performers are looking for a visual effect that is impactful and unique, that’s coordinated well with the show and can be safely executed night after night. These expectations can be almost as big as the flame effects they’re envisioning, but we’re always excited and ready to keep that fire (and idea) alive.
One thing that’s allowed us to deliver on pyro expectations is the Pyrotek Flame Dragon. Initially created to have a naked flame effect, this equipment was geared toward passing stringent safety regulations worldwide in arenas, stadiums and theatres with audiences in close proximity. Working with a special effects film industry company, Pyrotek built a propane-fuelled platform that uses a back-end fuel delivery system. This system does not allow any gas to be released unless the pilot is ignited. Because of this unique feature, the operator is in complete control of when to safely turn on the flames based on the timing and choreography of the show. The Flame Dragon was a game changer within the special effects industry because it was the first time propane effects were harnessed into a single, turnkey solution that was built with safety and monitoring in mind. The first artist for which Pyrotek incorporated the Flame Dragon was KISS in 1998. It still remains the leading system for propane-fuelled flame effects in the industry.
Since then, we’ve combined this system with a collection of output attachments to produce a wide range of flame and pyro effects for our clients. Imagine having a column of fire or pulsing fireball in an act? Our Dragon Head can create both. For a line of burning flame, we use the Dragon Tail, which can extend several feet long and seamlessly change from a slow, low flame into a bursting wall of fire. If you’re looking to integrate fire within set pieces themselves, our Remote Dragon Head can easily be added in to achieve various flame effects. We’ve even created a Gatling Gun remote attachment for a cool flame-thrower effect. Using different output mechanisms and applications allows us to create custom flame effects and unique flame looks that achieve any pyro expectations you might have.
We’ve applied the Flame Dragon platform to create flame effects and custom effects for many artists including Metallica, Avenged Sevenfold, Green Day, Shinedown, Florida Georgia Line, Britney Spears, Iron Maiden, Trans-Siberian Orchestra, KISS, Blink-182, Post Malone, Little Wayne, Enrique Iglesias and more.
The Flame Dragon is just one example of how Pyrotek has met clients’ expectations time and time again. It’s one of the most flexible, adaptable tools to date. And we’re always thinking of new ways to create even more pyro-inspired attachments that are geared to shock and awe. So, if you’re looking to incorporate big moments into your next performance, or have a vision for your next tour – contact us. We know just how to turn those wild, showstopping ideas into reality.
