See if you can hit up a DJ or production company for a couple of movers with some haze..
Some may be willing to do it for some free advertising.
Never know.
If a board op is goin to be true to the LD wishes, I'd recommend cueing. Live acts such as bands or even dance groups may allow for a show to be run live, as the show will often change on the fly.
Most nationally touring LD's and board op's have general cues and then add to them live with...
I've used the spotdot for sometime. It does make a difference, especially when working in community or high school theaters with less experienced operators. Bit pricey for a scope, but does work wonders.