Hello everyone.
I hope you are all surviving this heat and humidity with appropriate L.A. coolness. But we can count our blessings; LCS extends heartfelt wishes for a speedy recovery to all those on the East Coast who suffered through the onslaught of Hurricane Irene.
Okay, onto the heavy news. Just over a week ago, a production shot an enormous high-speed set up on our Stage A. Admittedly, we were a bit nervous to green light the rental as the gaffer and DP wanted to hang multiple 10Ks, 15 5Ks, extra distro and cabling from our grid. Last year, we extended the grid from our two-walled green screen out over the rest of the stage. The old cyc grid is not equipped to hang an abundance of weight, but the new old could probably support a truck. Well, this proved to be the big weight test. The multitude of lights and cabling was hung, and the grid supported all the equipment including a huge two-curtain green screen. Suffice to say that Stage A is well hung.
Among our many ongoing and planned upgrades, we will be replacing the lighting grid directly above our green screen and replacing it with a heavy-duty one that will be as big-boy as our newer grid.
Hey, check out "John Stamos Guide to Cuddling" on the College Humor website. John Stamos and his good bud Bob Saget were chewing up the scenery in one CH's latest comedy sketches. Hilarious, but I laughed until my sides ached when I watched the behind-the-scenes materials. Check it out, you won't be disappointed.
Well thrill-seekers, that's it for now. More news is just around the corner...
Regards,
Mary Claypool, Rental Manager
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
Hi gang!
I know, I know, I've been remiss in keeping you all up to date on the latest and greatest goings-on here at LCS. For that, I sincerely apologize. But in my defense, this year has been slammin' busy--the busiest year our stages have had yet. I just haven't had the time sit down and write. There is much to tell.
Throughout the month of June and part of July, we had the pleasure of renting to a top-notch team of filmmakers who shot on our spaceship sets. The director, an A-level visual effects wiz with his own company, set out to make a sci-fi film featuring both his directing and visual effects skills. His talents combined with those of his crew are sure to turn out a fantastic product. We were treated to a viewing of a few short uncut scenes, and the footage looks amazing. Due to non-disclosure, that's all I can say for now.
The rest of July and August were/are/will be packed with an eclectic variety of productions. Last month, a production shot a huge rock video on our green screen featuring the Grammy-nominated singer and instrumentalist, Skylar Grey. Then last week on the same stage, we experienced the wonderful world of Disney via Choo-Choo Soul, a great song and dance show for kids. Again, our stages were bursting at the seams with talent and professionals on this shoot. The performers--both adult and child--were astounding. Aside from acting, singing, and dancing, the two male and female leads (Genevieve Goings and D.C. Abramson) deserved Acadamy Awards in the category of Stamina and Upbeat Attitudes. What pros! Long hours, hot lights, and endless set-ups did not even put a dent in their spirits or wilt their smiles. Walt would be proud.
Just yesterday we had one of the cutest and most fun shoots ever to grace our stage. While I'm not allowed to mention the production name yet, I can say that the 20 stars of the shoot were absolutely purrrrfect. They were are cats! Yes, well-trained adorable kitties doing clever, funny, and downright astounding things. Watch for photos on our website in the near future.
Today, one of our favorite return clients is shooting a commercial; this weekend a very interesting high-speed camera project; next week we have inserts and added shots for a horror film; then our old friends at College Humor are back to close out the month. September and October are going to be filling up with... well, you'll read about that in my next blog.
Building update: We are pleased to announce the replacement of our old overhead elephant doors on Stage A. We now have two new beautiful motorized roll-up doors. They not only open and close with the smoothness of fine silk, they have improved our temperature and sound insulation on the stage. We are gradually, but steadily, making improvements to meet the needs of our clients.
Whew, that's quite a bit. More to come. Until then, happy trails!
Regards,
Mary Claypool, Rental Manager
I know, I know, I've been remiss in keeping you all up to date on the latest and greatest goings-on here at LCS. For that, I sincerely apologize. But in my defense, this year has been slammin' busy--the busiest year our stages have had yet. I just haven't had the time sit down and write. There is much to tell.
Throughout the month of June and part of July, we had the pleasure of renting to a top-notch team of filmmakers who shot on our spaceship sets. The director, an A-level visual effects wiz with his own company, set out to make a sci-fi film featuring both his directing and visual effects skills. His talents combined with those of his crew are sure to turn out a fantastic product. We were treated to a viewing of a few short uncut scenes, and the footage looks amazing. Due to non-disclosure, that's all I can say for now.
The rest of July and August were/are/will be packed with an eclectic variety of productions. Last month, a production shot a huge rock video on our green screen featuring the Grammy-nominated singer and instrumentalist, Skylar Grey. Then last week on the same stage, we experienced the wonderful world of Disney via Choo-Choo Soul, a great song and dance show for kids. Again, our stages were bursting at the seams with talent and professionals on this shoot. The performers--both adult and child--were astounding. Aside from acting, singing, and dancing, the two male and female leads (Genevieve Goings and D.C. Abramson) deserved Acadamy Awards in the category of Stamina and Upbeat Attitudes. What pros! Long hours, hot lights, and endless set-ups did not even put a dent in their spirits or wilt their smiles. Walt would be proud.
Just yesterday we had one of the cutest and most fun shoots ever to grace our stage. While I'm not allowed to mention the production name yet, I can say that the 20 stars of the shoot were absolutely purrrrfect. They were are cats! Yes, well-trained adorable kitties doing clever, funny, and downright astounding things. Watch for photos on our website in the near future.
Today, one of our favorite return clients is shooting a commercial; this weekend a very interesting high-speed camera project; next week we have inserts and added shots for a horror film; then our old friends at College Humor are back to close out the month. September and October are going to be filling up with... well, you'll read about that in my next blog.
Building update: We are pleased to announce the replacement of our old overhead elephant doors on Stage A. We now have two new beautiful motorized roll-up doors. They not only open and close with the smoothness of fine silk, they have improved our temperature and sound insulation on the stage. We are gradually, but steadily, making improvements to meet the needs of our clients.
Whew, that's quite a bit. More to come. Until then, happy trails!
Regards,
Mary Claypool, Rental Manager
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
SUMMER DAYS ARE HERE AGAIN!
Hello friends,
Yes, the dog days of summer are finally upon us. Why not let your production beat the heat in our air conditioned stages? Plus, we can help you stop sweating over those burning budgets with a 5% summer discount* off our base stage rates and equipment rentals throughout July and August. Now that's cool.
Another thing that's cool is the GearNex geared camera head. This award-winning, highly acclaimed precision head can make all the difference on your next shoot. As an authorized GearNex dealer, we invite you to call us and make an appointment to come by try one out. You'll be impressed.
In other news, our sci-fi spaceship sets have never been busier. Thanks to the overwhelming response from the throngs who read our humble little blog, we have postponed indefinitely the demolition and removal of these versatile sets. In fact, they have been undergoing a slow but steady refurbishing, and they are looking great. As long as there is a demand, we hope to continue offering them. Again, thanks for your support.
Also, LCS is proud to welcome its two new employees: Patrick Mason and Angus Hall. After earning a B.A. in Business at Cal Poly Pomona, Patrick found himself stage managing at his alma mater. He went on to be a stage hand at the Wiltern Theatre, then served as a master electrician at The Grove in Upland, Calfornia, as well as various other theatrical venues. Angus, a part-time professional videographer and editor, holds a B.A. in Media Arts from Cal State Long Beach. Angus applies his many skills and talents as our head of marketing. LCS is happy to have them aboard!
Never been to LCS before? Call or email us to schedule a tour, we'd love to show you around. And have a cup o' Joe on us--it's always fresh and free.
Regards,
Mary Claypool, Rental Manager
*This discount cannot be used in combination with other promotional offers or discounts.
Yes, the dog days of summer are finally upon us. Why not let your production beat the heat in our air conditioned stages? Plus, we can help you stop sweating over those burning budgets with a 5% summer discount* off our base stage rates and equipment rentals throughout July and August. Now that's cool.
Another thing that's cool is the GearNex geared camera head. This award-winning, highly acclaimed precision head can make all the difference on your next shoot. As an authorized GearNex dealer, we invite you to call us and make an appointment to come by try one out. You'll be impressed.
In other news, our sci-fi spaceship sets have never been busier. Thanks to the overwhelming response from the throngs who read our humble little blog, we have postponed indefinitely the demolition and removal of these versatile sets. In fact, they have been undergoing a slow but steady refurbishing, and they are looking great. As long as there is a demand, we hope to continue offering them. Again, thanks for your support.
Also, LCS is proud to welcome its two new employees: Patrick Mason and Angus Hall. After earning a B.A. in Business at Cal Poly Pomona, Patrick found himself stage managing at his alma mater. He went on to be a stage hand at the Wiltern Theatre, then served as a master electrician at The Grove in Upland, Calfornia, as well as various other theatrical venues. Angus, a part-time professional videographer and editor, holds a B.A. in Media Arts from Cal State Long Beach. Angus applies his many skills and talents as our head of marketing. LCS is happy to have them aboard!
Never been to LCS before? Call or email us to schedule a tour, we'd love to show you around. And have a cup o' Joe on us--it's always fresh and free.
Regards,
Mary Claypool, Rental Manager
*This discount cannot be used in combination with other promotional offers or discounts.
Thursday, May 5, 2011
***MAY DAYS DISCOUNT***
Salutations from LCS.
So far, this year has been bustling and productive with LCS renting to a variety of exciting, talented-laden productions. New and returning customers have graced our stages with projects large and small, and to all of you, we send out a big thank you for choosing Laurel Canyon Stages for your stage rental needs.
To show our appreciation, LCS is offering a discount to renters who book their rentals with us throughout the month of May. We are offering a 10% discount* off of our base stage rate AND we'll throw in our basic 3-ton grip package absolutely FREE! Prime days are still available, so don't wait. Contact us today, and book your shoot at LCS.
Be sure to check back for more updates!
Regards,
Mary Claypool, Rental Manager
*This discount cannot be combined with student discount.
So far, this year has been bustling and productive with LCS renting to a variety of exciting, talented-laden productions. New and returning customers have graced our stages with projects large and small, and to all of you, we send out a big thank you for choosing Laurel Canyon Stages for your stage rental needs.
To show our appreciation, LCS is offering a discount to renters who book their rentals with us throughout the month of May. We are offering a 10% discount* off of our base stage rate AND we'll throw in our basic 3-ton grip package absolutely FREE! Prime days are still available, so don't wait. Contact us today, and book your shoot at LCS.
Be sure to check back for more updates!
Regards,
Mary Claypool, Rental Manager
*This discount cannot be combined with student discount.
Monday, March 21, 2011
NEWS FROM THE FRONT (OFFICE, THAT IS)
Howdy one and all:
We're bringing you the latest LCS news that's fit to print.
Laughter's in the air, because we've had a slew of comedy productions renting our facility lately. Just what the world needs right now, a good chuckle. We're glad our stages can be part of the comedic relief.
Pardon our dust! Our Stage B restroom remodel is well under way. The interior has been gutted, the concrete poured, and a bigger, better restroom facility will soon be in. After we complete work on that, a welcome addition of a new kitchenette area will be built adjacent to the new restroom.
Attention Digital Cinema Society members and students! We are continuing our DCS 10% discount off base stage rental rates through the end of May, 2011. We also offer student discounts on stage and equipment rental--please contact our office for additional information.
GearNex announcements: Keep in mind that LCS is offering FREE PRACTICE TIME on our GearNex geared camera head. If you'd like to get some hands-on experience on this superbly machined head, please contact our office at (818) 768-8935 or email mary@lcstages.com to schedule an appointment.
If you are thinking about purchasing/leasing a GearNex head, a $250 manufacturer's rebate will be issued to all approved lease applicants. In addition, GearNex accessories are discounted at 5% off.
CineToys, the creators of the GearNex head, will be featuring their award-winning camera head at NAB next month at the Los Angeles Convention Center. Stop by and catch up on the latest GearNex news.
Well, time for a nice hot mug o' Joe. If you're in the neighborhood, stop in and join us for a cup. The coffee is always fresh and free.
Regards,
Mary Claypool, Rental Manager
We're bringing you the latest LCS news that's fit to print.
Laughter's in the air, because we've had a slew of comedy productions renting our facility lately. Just what the world needs right now, a good chuckle. We're glad our stages can be part of the comedic relief.
Pardon our dust! Our Stage B restroom remodel is well under way. The interior has been gutted, the concrete poured, and a bigger, better restroom facility will soon be in. After we complete work on that, a welcome addition of a new kitchenette area will be built adjacent to the new restroom.
Attention Digital Cinema Society members and students! We are continuing our DCS 10% discount off base stage rental rates through the end of May, 2011. We also offer student discounts on stage and equipment rental--please contact our office for additional information.
GearNex announcements: Keep in mind that LCS is offering FREE PRACTICE TIME on our GearNex geared camera head. If you'd like to get some hands-on experience on this superbly machined head, please contact our office at (818) 768-8935 or email mary@lcstages.com to schedule an appointment.
If you are thinking about purchasing/leasing a GearNex head, a $250 manufacturer's rebate will be issued to all approved lease applicants. In addition, GearNex accessories are discounted at 5% off.
CineToys, the creators of the GearNex head, will be featuring their award-winning camera head at NAB next month at the Los Angeles Convention Center. Stop by and catch up on the latest GearNex news.
Well, time for a nice hot mug o' Joe. If you're in the neighborhood, stop in and join us for a cup. The coffee is always fresh and free.
Regards,
Mary Claypool, Rental Manager
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
GEARNEX NEWS AND LCS REMODEL
Hi everybody:
LCS would like to thank all of you who attended last Saturday's GearNex seminar. We had a great turnout with a diverse group of attendees ranging from industry professionals to aspiring student filmmakers. Veteran camera operator Michael Frediani offered industry insight drawn from his own experiences, as well as instruction and hands-on instruction on the GearNex geared camera head. Thanks also go out to Bret Allen and Joe Mendoza of CineToys for providing us with the opportunity to feature their GearNex head.
For those who would like to try out the GearNex camera head or just get some more practice time under your belt, LCS invites you to call us to schedule a FREE HAND-ON SESSION with our GearNex head at our facility. Sessions are based on availability and are by appointment only. To schedule a session, please contact our office at (818) 768-8935 or via e-mail: mary@lcstages.com.
Heads up! Quite literally, our Stage B spaceship set restroom has been ripped up and torn out to the 2'x4's. The restroom is being expanded, plus an enclosed kitchenette area will be installed. These and more amenities are currently in progress at LCS, because our goal is to meet and exceed the stage rental needs of our clients.
On a lighter note, check out the latest on-line webisode of "College Humor," who recently shot some hilarious material on our spaceship sets. You can't miss our sets in their Star Wars-esque spoof.
Keep your eyes peeled on our blog for more news and updates.
Regards,
Mary Claypool, Rental Manger
LCS would like to thank all of you who attended last Saturday's GearNex seminar. We had a great turnout with a diverse group of attendees ranging from industry professionals to aspiring student filmmakers. Veteran camera operator Michael Frediani offered industry insight drawn from his own experiences, as well as instruction and hands-on instruction on the GearNex geared camera head. Thanks also go out to Bret Allen and Joe Mendoza of CineToys for providing us with the opportunity to feature their GearNex head.
For those who would like to try out the GearNex camera head or just get some more practice time under your belt, LCS invites you to call us to schedule a FREE HAND-ON SESSION with our GearNex head at our facility. Sessions are based on availability and are by appointment only. To schedule a session, please contact our office at (818) 768-8935 or via e-mail: mary@lcstages.com.
Heads up! Quite literally, our Stage B spaceship set restroom has been ripped up and torn out to the 2'x4's. The restroom is being expanded, plus an enclosed kitchenette area will be installed. These and more amenities are currently in progress at LCS, because our goal is to meet and exceed the stage rental needs of our clients.
On a lighter note, check out the latest on-line webisode of "College Humor," who recently shot some hilarious material on our spaceship sets. You can't miss our sets in their Star Wars-esque spoof.
Keep your eyes peeled on our blog for more news and updates.
Regards,
Mary Claypool, Rental Manger
Monday, February 28, 2011
*** FREE SATURDAY SEMINAR -- DON'T MISS OUT! ***
Hi everyone:
This is just a reminder that we are hosting a FREE GearNex seminar this Saturday, March 5, 2011 at our facility from 10am to 2:30pm.
This precision-machined camera geared head is created by CineToys, and they will have a GearNex technician here to teach a hands-on class in the use of the head. Class size is limited to 18, but there are still openings. Call us at (818) 768-8935 or email to mary@lcstages.com today to reserve your spot.
See you there!
This is just a reminder that we are hosting a FREE GearNex seminar this Saturday, March 5, 2011 at our facility from 10am to 2:30pm.
This precision-machined camera geared head is created by CineToys, and they will have a GearNex technician here to teach a hands-on class in the use of the head. Class size is limited to 18, but there are still openings. Call us at (818) 768-8935 or email to mary@lcstages.com today to reserve your spot.
See you there!
Friday, February 18, 2011
*** GEARNEX SEMINAR ***
Salutations from LCS
We have some exciting news to announce: LCS will be hosting a GearNex seminar on Saturday, March 5, 2011 from 10am to 2:30pm. This seminar is FREE, but seating is VERY LIMITED to ensure small class size and personalized instruction. Learn how to use a geared head, what the differences are between a geared head and a fluid head, and much more. Attendees who complete the course will receive a certification in GearNex usage. This precision camera head, created by CineToys, LLC, was a winner at last year's NAB show. Reserve your spot today! RSVP to Mary at (818) 768-8935 or by e-mail: mary@lcstages.com.
On other fronts, LCS has had a run of fun rentals so far this year. Priceline shot another comically kitsch commercial on our greenscreen stage starring the wonderful William Shatner. Coincidentally, a few weeks later, Michael Dorn who portrayed Worf, the unflappable Klingon officer on Star Trek: The Next Generation, and Bob Picardo, the ship's doctor from Star Trek: Voyager graced our stages. It was a regular Star Fleet reunion.
Recently, the talented cast and crew of College Humor were here shooting some side-splitting sketches for some of their upcoming webisodes, and last month, a group of film students from Biola University shot a fantastic short on our spaceship sets for a school project. Our clients really run the gamut, and that's what keep things interesting around here.
Just a reminder that we are still offering a 10% discount off our base stage rentals to Digital Cinema Society member. For more information about the DCS and membership, you can visit their website at digitalcinemasociety.org. LCS also offers student discounts (proof of student status required).
That's it for now, but be sure to check back regularly for updates. And if you're in the neighborhood, stop in for a fresh cup o' joe.
Regards,
Mary Claypool, Rental Manager
We have some exciting news to announce: LCS will be hosting a GearNex seminar on Saturday, March 5, 2011 from 10am to 2:30pm. This seminar is FREE, but seating is VERY LIMITED to ensure small class size and personalized instruction. Learn how to use a geared head, what the differences are between a geared head and a fluid head, and much more. Attendees who complete the course will receive a certification in GearNex usage. This precision camera head, created by CineToys, LLC, was a winner at last year's NAB show. Reserve your spot today! RSVP to Mary at (818) 768-8935 or by e-mail: mary@lcstages.com.
On other fronts, LCS has had a run of fun rentals so far this year. Priceline shot another comically kitsch commercial on our greenscreen stage starring the wonderful William Shatner. Coincidentally, a few weeks later, Michael Dorn who portrayed Worf, the unflappable Klingon officer on Star Trek: The Next Generation, and Bob Picardo, the ship's doctor from Star Trek: Voyager graced our stages. It was a regular Star Fleet reunion.
Recently, the talented cast and crew of College Humor were here shooting some side-splitting sketches for some of their upcoming webisodes, and last month, a group of film students from Biola University shot a fantastic short on our spaceship sets for a school project. Our clients really run the gamut, and that's what keep things interesting around here.
Just a reminder that we are still offering a 10% discount off our base stage rentals to Digital Cinema Society member. For more information about the DCS and membership, you can visit their website at digitalcinemasociety.org. LCS also offers student discounts (proof of student status required).
That's it for now, but be sure to check back regularly for updates. And if you're in the neighborhood, stop in for a fresh cup o' joe.
Regards,
Mary Claypool, Rental Manager
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
LCS DISCOUNTS AND PERKS
Hi everybody.
So far, the new year has been picking up steam, and we expect 2011 to be our best year ever. We're sending out positive vibes that this will be a banner annum for all of you, too.
In support of the Digital Cinema Society--an outstanding organization dedicated to educating and informing the entertainment community about digital technology within its industry--we are continuing our 2010 20% rental discount offer until the end of January. After that, we will continue to support DCS members by offering 10% off our base stage rentals, as well as equipment.
Students, take notice--LCS currently offers discounts on its base stage rentals and equipment for your productions. Proof of student status and a letter from your school or instructor must be presented at time of booking. Please call us for further details.
For those producers, grips, and gaffers who are looking for a rental stage but already have equipment for their productions, you will be delighted to learn that LCS offers a B.Y.O.G. option--bring your own gear! That's right, we offer you a choice. You can rent lighting and grip equipment from us, or you can bring in your own without restriction. We have ample parking to accommodate trucks and two large roll-up doors for easy stage access. Such a deal!!!
Keep your eyes open for future posts. And don't forget... our coffee is always fresh and free.
Mary Claypool, Rental Manager
So far, the new year has been picking up steam, and we expect 2011 to be our best year ever. We're sending out positive vibes that this will be a banner annum for all of you, too.
In support of the Digital Cinema Society--an outstanding organization dedicated to educating and informing the entertainment community about digital technology within its industry--we are continuing our 2010 20% rental discount offer until the end of January. After that, we will continue to support DCS members by offering 10% off our base stage rentals, as well as equipment.
Students, take notice--LCS currently offers discounts on its base stage rentals and equipment for your productions. Proof of student status and a letter from your school or instructor must be presented at time of booking. Please call us for further details.
For those producers, grips, and gaffers who are looking for a rental stage but already have equipment for their productions, you will be delighted to learn that LCS offers a B.Y.O.G. option--bring your own gear! That's right, we offer you a choice. You can rent lighting and grip equipment from us, or you can bring in your own without restriction. We have ample parking to accommodate trucks and two large roll-up doors for easy stage access. Such a deal!!!
Keep your eyes open for future posts. And don't forget... our coffee is always fresh and free.
Mary Claypool, Rental Manager
Friday, January 7, 2011
HAPPY NEW YEAR!
Hail and salutations!
The new year is here and well underway. We hope everyone had a wonderful holiday season and that 2011 is an excellent one for us all.
A lot of new and familiar faces came by the LCS booth at the December Showbiz Expo in Los Angeles. We shared a booth with Pittsburgh Paint, our green screen and all-purpose stage paint supplier, and we had a great turnout. We held a random drawing for a chance to win a $100 Nordstrom gift card, and the winner was Bill Linsman of Los Angeles. Congrats, Bill!
This coming year holds much in store for our stages. A slew of more improvements and amenities are in the works, including plans for more lighting, camera, and entertainment technology seminars. As an authorized dealer for GearNex, we will be holding a seminar on the operation of their phenomenal camera heads. The instructional session will be taught by a GearNex tech who is expert in the use of these fluid heads. The date for this exciting event has not yet been set, so check back with us for further developments.
Many of you have been asking if we still have our renown spaceship sets. The answer is a resounding "yes." Our plans to remove them have been postponed indefinitely, but nothing lasts forever. If you have a sci-fi space script gathering dust in your closet, time to pull it out and consider renting our sets.
Keep an eye on our website for more news from LCS, where the coffee is always fresh and free!
Regards,
Mary Claypool, Rental Manager
The new year is here and well underway. We hope everyone had a wonderful holiday season and that 2011 is an excellent one for us all.
A lot of new and familiar faces came by the LCS booth at the December Showbiz Expo in Los Angeles. We shared a booth with Pittsburgh Paint, our green screen and all-purpose stage paint supplier, and we had a great turnout. We held a random drawing for a chance to win a $100 Nordstrom gift card, and the winner was Bill Linsman of Los Angeles. Congrats, Bill!
This coming year holds much in store for our stages. A slew of more improvements and amenities are in the works, including plans for more lighting, camera, and entertainment technology seminars. As an authorized dealer for GearNex, we will be holding a seminar on the operation of their phenomenal camera heads. The instructional session will be taught by a GearNex tech who is expert in the use of these fluid heads. The date for this exciting event has not yet been set, so check back with us for further developments.
Many of you have been asking if we still have our renown spaceship sets. The answer is a resounding "yes." Our plans to remove them have been postponed indefinitely, but nothing lasts forever. If you have a sci-fi space script gathering dust in your closet, time to pull it out and consider renting our sets.
Keep an eye on our website for more news from LCS, where the coffee is always fresh and free!
Regards,
Mary Claypool, Rental Manager
Posts
