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Story by Eirik Knutzen
Did you have professional help with the final
phase of the project?
Definitely. A tent was pitched at the lake where Peter Kopik, a Hungarian computer
whiz, installed his equipment. Working with the “Virtual WET” program–literally
a computerized version of the Bellagio fountain show–we spent the next
nine days choreographing our 3½-minute song, telling the programmer that
we wanted effects like whipping lassos, high streams, large curls, and small
trickles. Peter translated everything on his keyboard, asking us questions like, “Something
shooting as high as this?” We’d respond, “Yeah, but make it
lean back farther.” It was the most satisfying thing I’ve ever done.
What was it like when your creation was unveiled
on July 17?
We were so excited! We were absolutely beside ourselves when we shared it that
night at an intimate champagne party under the lights with our friends and
families. I don’t care who you are–the Fountains of Bellagio take
your breath away.
In the future, do you see a second career
as a fountain choreographer?
No, there is no money involved. Despite the hard work, it was a priceless experience
for pure pleasure. An honor. A dream.
Would you orchestrate another number for
Bellagio’s fountains if given a chance?
We really hope to do another one, but we’ll see. The hang-up is that
it took so long to do the first one and we would have to carve another week-and-a-half
out of our schedules to do the next one.
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