Quick answer. Pellets or crushed, LOTS of
fog FAST. Solid
block, not as much or as fast but much longer lasting. You can also regulate the
fog during the
gag by several methods, turning the pump on and off is the method that will conserve the dry ice and increase longevity. That said, each
stage and set is a
bit different, I can not tell you exactly how much but I would hazard a guess that you will need at least between 30 and 50 pounds per machine if you use
block or large chunks and more if you use pellets. The machines will hold 75 lbs. First time the action sequence on
stage during a rehearsal with no stops or "
LINE". Do a trial test with a full 75, full set, no actors, try to keep the
fog level (amount) where you want it. compare with your action timing. If you have dry Ice left, be ready with gloves and a scale, weigh what is left. If you don't have any left, go to plan B. If you machines are located where you can reload during the action, load machine 1 with max dry ice, machine 2 with about 2/3rds. When machine 2 is empty, refill while machine 1 continues. for eternal
fog, simply repeat as needed. The only real way to tell is trial and error. Plan your trials well and limit the number of errors. It will cost $$$.
Michael Powers, Project Manager
ETCP Certified Rigger -
Theatre
Central Lighting & Equipment Inc.
675 NE 45th Place, Des Moines, Iowa, 50313