Behind the Scenes of Breanna: Precision Projection with Panasonic

Scroll down

For the Breanna project, projection was not simply a visual layer—it was a core part of the performance itself. Delivered as a collaborative effort to raise awareness for ALS, the project brought together creative, scientific, and technical partners to create an immersive stage environment where visuals, sound, and human data converged.

Panasonic projectors played a central role in ensuring this environment performed reliably under highly demanding conditions.

Projection on Mesh and Black Scrims

The stage design incorporated a front mesh scrim and two black rear screens, surfaces that absorb and diffuse significantly more light than conventional projection screens. To meet this challenge, BASSDRUM Inc., the company responsible for projector installation and technical direction, selected high-lumen Panasonic models tailored to each surface:

  • PT-RQ35K for the front mesh scrim, where light loss is most pronounced
  • PT-RQ25K for the black rear screens, optimized for contrast and depth

Carefully calibrated color settings and high-contrast visual content ensured clarity and balance despite the unconventional materials.

Image Consistency Across the Stage

To maintain visual precision, the front scrim was served by a single projector to prioritize focus, while the rear screens employed a blended dual-projector setup. Although space constraints required narrow blending zones, fine adjustments ensured seamless transitions that were imperceptible to the audience.

Even with extensive lens shift, image distortion remained minimal—an advantage that proved essential during final on-site adjustments.

Synchronization with Brainwave Data

The performance integrated brainwave data provided by NTT, adding a unique human dimension to the visuals. Rather than relying on AI or motion capture, the system was synchronized using the song’s timecode as a master timeline. Brainwave data was processed in alignment with this timeline, allowing visuals to respond with near real-time precision and without perceptible latency.

Preparation Under Tight Constraints

With limited access to the venue prior to the performance, advance preparation was critical. Projection tests and scrim simulations were conducted in Japan, allowing the team to anticipate light behavior, contrast, and spill before arriving on site. This preparation helped ensure close alignment between Dentsu Lab, BASSDRUM Inc., and all technical partners during final setup.

A Reliable Foundation for a Purpose-Driven Project

In a production defined by complex staging, moving performers, and a powerful social mission, reliability was essential.

"Even in an environment with many constraints and unstable factors across both software and hardware, Panasonic projectors proved to be the most reliable and trustworthy equipment we could use."

Through close collaboration with Dentsu Lab, ALS Foundation Netherlands, NTT, and the broader creative team, Panasonic projectors helped provide a stable visual platform—allowing the focus to remain on the message at the heart of Breanna: creating awareness and understanding around ALS.

Read more insights…

Sorry there was an error...
The files you selected could not be downloaded as they do not exist.

You selected items.
Continue to select additional items or download selected items together as a zip file.

You selected 1 item.
Continue to select additional items or download the selected item directly.

Download selected file