Weight Loaders are responsible for loading and unloading weights into a counterweight system that allows a Flyperson to hang theatrical equipment above the stage. They must understand counterweight systems, proper actions and communications, and procedures for loading and unloading to safely complete the tasks.
Students will be shown proper procedures, then be expected to demonstrate those actions and commands. Each student will take a turn on the fly rail and the different levels of weight floors, demonstrating they can safely perform all of the required tasks and communicate clearly with the other members of the team. Using both hands-on and written materials, this course is designed to give them the tools they need to work safely as part of a theater counterweight system.
Details
Language: English
Format: In-person
Length: 4-8 hours
Trainer
Zorn David & Michael David, IATSE Local 26
Location: Grand Rapids, MI
Zorn David is a proud member of IATSE 26. A second-generation union member, Zorn is committed to keeping his crew safe and sharing his knowledge. He has spent years working in theaters as Head Flyman, Assistant Fly, carpenter, and general stagehand. He mentors new workers and is constantly adding to his own skill set. He has worked everything from touring Broadway shows to stand-up comedians. The priority remains the same. Be safe, work smart.
Michael David has been a theatrical stagehand associated with the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees, Motion Picture Technicians, Artists and Allied Crafts since 1978. He has worked in the electrical, audio, projection, carpentry, rigging/fly rail, props, and wardrobe departments. As a call-in stagehand, he’s worked in all the IA stage locals in Michigan, plus Indianapolis, IN #30, Cleveland, OH #27, Louisville, KY #17, Miami, FL #545, and Mobile, AL #142. He traveled under a pink contract as the Head Prop Master for Miss Universe, Miss USA, and Miss Teen USA, which took him to many locations within the United States and overseas, including Singapore, Taiwan, and Cancun. He was the production carpenter for Cherry County Playhouse and Muskegon Lake Television. He oversaw the construction of three to four of these Broadway shows and one production each year for Arts & Entertainment Television from 1993 to 1998. From 1988 through 2004 & 2014 to present, he’s been the first on-call/house Flyman at DeVos Performance Hall. He belonged to IA Local 35 Saginaw, MI and IA Projectionist Local 291 Grand Rapids, MI. He’s a current member of IA Local 26 of West Michigan, IA Local 274 Lansing & North Central MI, IA Local 38 Detroit MI, and a charter member of IA Local 477 Studio Mechanics State of Florida. He served as Business Agent of IA Local 35 (5 years), IA Local 26 (13 years), and IA Local 274 (6 years).