For their magical production of Willy Wonka, Chicago Shakespeare Theater once again called on their rigging vendor of choice – The Chicago Flyhouse, Inc.

Chartered with creating a stunning flying sequence for Charlie’s visit to the Wonka factory, Flyhouse installed a custom Ziplift 300V’s, manipulated by a handheld joystick that allowed the operator to control the flight from either the stage floor or theater catwalks.

The flying system was installed downstage of the auditorium’s proscenium opening, allowing the actor in the role of Charlie to fly both vertically and horizontally over the audience, and our low-profile harness permitted spectacular in-flight somersault choreography.

In addition, Flyhouse provided Chicago Shakespeare with our new PDA-based inspection system. Utilizing a built-in checklist, the stage crew can easily conduct exhaustive pre-show inspections via PDA, which are instantly eMailed to Flyhouse staff. If any issues are present on the inspection, Flyhouse immediately contacts the theater to address and resolve them before the curtain goes up.

Flyhouse is pleased to continue their ongoing role in the growth and success of Chicago Shakespeare.