For theatre and live performance
Keep the script, cues, and next lighting action in one view
The Scenario Widget puts scenes, animations, and live logic inside the running script. Build measured transitions on a familiar keyframe timeline, operate from MIDI, and refine the project away from the venue.
The show follows the script
Run cues with the context still visible
The Scenario Widget places a scene, animation, or node graph exactly where it belongs in the script. The operator sees what just happened, what comes next, and how long the current section has been running.
See how dashboard widgets workBERNARDO Who’s there?
FRANCISCO Nay, answer me: stand, and unfold yourself.
FRANCISCO ’Tis bitter cold, and I am sick at heart.
Keyframes without console archaeology
Shape a transition like you would in a modern video editor
Put intensity, color, position, or another fixture property on its own track. Add keys, adjust the curve, and see the timing in one place. Use real time for a measured stage transition or beats when the cue follows music.
Open the animation guideFrom a direction to editable show elements
Draft a complete moment in plain language
Describe the intent to a compatible AI client. Through the local MCP server, it can patch fixtures and create scenes, keyframe animations, and node graphs in the open project. Everything remains visible and editable before rehearsal.
UNILIGHTER DESKTOP ONLY MCP runs locally through Unilighter Desktop.
Around the performance
The rest of the workflow stays close
-
Read the project guide
Cloud-synced projects
Adjust the script, scenes, and animation timing from home, on the train, or between rehearsals. The project syncs when a connection is available.
-
Set up MIDI
Physical control with MIDI
Keep GO, blackout, intensity, effect depth, and other live controls on real buttons and faders.
-
Set up remote control
Remote control on the local network DESKTOP HOST
Leave the Desktop host connected to DMX and use a phone, tablet, or laptop around the venue for focus, rehearsal, or a second operator.
-
Download Desktop
USB and network DMX NETWORK OUTPUT: DESKTOP
Use supported USB interfaces, or send several universes over Art-Net and sACN from Unilighter Desktop.
Questions that come up in practice
Common questions
What if a performer changes pace from one night to the next?
The operator advances the Scenario Widget manually, so the script does not force the performance onto a fixed clock. A timed animation keeps its own duration once triggered.
Can I rehearse one section without running the whole scenario?
Yes. Scenes and animations remain available as separate show elements. Trigger the section you need from its editor or dashboard, then return to the Scenario Widget for the full run.
What makes the Scenario Widget different from traditional cue lists?
The Scenario Widget places scenes, keyframe animations, and node graphs inside the performance script. The operator sees the surrounding text and the next action instead of working from cue numbers alone. See the Scenes & Performance Guide and Dashboard Manual.
Can I connect physical MIDI controllers on desktop and mobile?
Yes. You can map USB or Bluetooth MIDI controllers on compatible desktop computers and Android devices. Controllers such as the M-VAVE SMC Mixer provide physical faders, knobs, and buttons. See the Hardware & MIDI Bindings Guide.
Is a browser-based console fast enough for live shows?
Yes. Standard DMX hardware runs at about 40 frames per second, while Unilighter processes control updates internally at 60 frames per second. This leaves enough headroom for cue triggers, audio-reactive control, and live color changes.
Can I use Unilighter at venues with spotty or no internet?
Yes. Once loaded, the console can keep working offline and the project remains stored locally on the device. Cloud synchronization resumes when an internet connection becomes available.