Hey, any pyrotechnics out there??

[fantasymagic]

I've read lots of threads about CMs we like, we'd like to be, but I've never seen any pyrotecnics mentioned.

Any out there who knows anything about the WDW fireworks displays? Are they all set up with timers with one technician at the computer controls?

Any idea how much a showing of Illuminations costs?

 

[tink2dw]

I would be interested in this answer for Dd, this is her ides of a dream job, a pyrotecnics tech!!

 

[PandyPaws]

A very cool subject, fantasymagic I remember seeing a special on the pyrotechincs a while back and I was glued to the television It takes a lot of work and setup for each display. Next time you're at Epcot, you may notice the crews in the speedboats in the early evenings, going around The World Showcase lagoon setting the charges

I recall hearing/reading somewhere that each show of Illuminations costs upward of about $56k.night...not sure that's accurate, only what I've head.

Check out this thread for some pictures I just posted last night that may interest you

 

[figmentvi]

Donna you're correct on the price. I have a vendor from General Electric (Illuminations' sponsor) that worked with the Illuminations planning group and he mentioned that same figure to me.

The fireworks displays at WDW are computerized. The mortars on the barges are loaded manually and are connected to electronic ignitions, which in turn are connected to computers. There is a crew sitting in a remote control room that monitor the show and the computer programs.

Most major displays are done this way now. Much safer and easier to time with music.

 

[Dan Murphy]

I have always heard $55,000 as the number also, big bucks.

Here are some additional details.

http://orlando.about.com/library/disney/blwdwflepcot.htm

http://www.intercot.com/edc/IllumiNations/facts.html

 

[goofygirl]

Very interesting

Last time I went to WDW, I saw Illuminations 3 nights in a row. I got to know it so well, that on the 3rd time, there was a mistake made, and I noticed it right away. The fireworks didnt start in time to the music, it was about 5 seconds off, and the whole thing was a little off kilter! Plus it was windy, too.

I just kept picturing the pyrotech guys cursing up a storm somewhere!

 

[fantasymagic]

I was so awed the first time I saw this. My cousin is a pyrotechnic, does fireworks displays for local townships. I gotta tell him about this.

With all the costcutting discussions, I'm sure glad Illuminations goes on every night.

Also, the fireworks over the castle are the most romantic thing--guaranteed to get me to cry.

I gotta get busy and book a trip for 2003--it's a little lonely below my October 2002 line in my signature.

Happy New Year and pixiedust to everyone!!!

 

[Zurg]

fromone of dan'slinks

The cost to stage the show per night stated by some Epcot cast members is typically overstated and inaccurate as the real dollar amount is a closely guarded fact.