01.07.2003

Palfinger steals the limelight

These two “dancing cranes” from Palfinger are currently holding audiences captive at the Summer Scene and Salzburg Festival in Austria. The two PK 7501 Performance knuckle booms have been mounted on a 5 x 5 metre platform which is moved by three cylinders under the influence of music played around their axles. Please register to see all images

Palfinger's PK 7501 Performers

“The position of the pinnacle of the crane – like the pinnacle of a sailing mast – draws figures in space,” said Palfinger. “From this movement principle, a choreography has been developed where automatic crane control deals with the “beginning”, “duration” and “speed” [of the performance]. The events have been arranged in such a way that they appear as individual steps in a dance notation. The music is a mix of samples from the exciting Hamburg Landing Stages.”

Following the Salzburg production, the knuckle booms will be embarking on a European tour. All European Palfinger dealers will have the opportunity to book the “dancing cranes” free of charge for anniversary events, trade fair appearances, open days and similar occasions. On completion of the European tour, “La vie mécanique” will be integrated as a moving sculpture at Palfinger’s new service and demonstration centre at its Salzburg/Bergheim facility.