Hello Eleanor & Bob (Shelter Systems), and John (Stage Depot)
Just wanted to let you know that the combination of the 20 foot half-dome and 8×12 foot intellistage system worked fantastic. We got lots of compliments on the dome/stage system.
The 20 foot half-dome performed beyond my expectations. Not only did it protect us (the performers) and our equipment from the sun (by provided outstanding shade), it acted as a portable amphitheater. I have played out-doors dozens of times, and each time the music “disappears” around you on stage. It is almost like you a playing by yourself, while the other musicians are playing very softly in the background. This was not the case with playing in the 20 foot half-dome tent. The sound in the half-dome was like playing in our rehearsal studio. Playing in your half-dome was the best out-door performance experience I have had as a musician in the 30 years I have been doing out-door performances.
The dome was a snap to set up. Two of us had the dome erected and staked down in 15 minutes. Tear down and packing up the tent was only a 5 minute process for three of us. There were 25 – 30 mph gusts of wind happening during the day, but the dome was flexible enough to handle these winds. Most of the wind was blowing against the back and sides of the half-dome.
The intellistage was quick and easy to set up. It was only 17 minutes from the time two of us started unloading the stage pieces to having a fully assembled stage, with equipment being set up on it. I believe the stage was a significant part of creating the “on stage” audio performance acoustic environment. In addition to all the advantages of having a 16″ high stage, it was amazingly comfortable to stand on. In fact, in the 30 years I have been performing, my feet have NEVER felt as relaxed at the end of a 4 hour performance. That is NOT an exaggeration. I noticed that the stage surface has a little bit of flex, which I think is a major factor for my feet.
Once again, thanks to all of you for providing outstanding products that make performing more fun! Hope you enjoy the photos. If you want to use them on your web site, feel free to do so.
I want to thank John again for going above and beyond the call of duty to help get the intellistage to us in North Dakota ahead of schedule. It is not the end of the world, but you can see it from here.