Show Motion Engineering, Inc is a full-service engineering and fabrication company founded in 1985 in California, specializing in mechanical special effects, show-action equipment, prop making, scenic theming, and turnkey production solutions for the entertainment industry. With nearly four decades of experience, the company has contributed to concerts, award shows, theatrical productions, and themed environments worldwide. Show Motion is known for its precision machine work, custom metal fabrication, fiberglass mold making, and automation systems. Their team combines technical, architectural, and artistic expertise to deliver complex scenic elements for high-profile clients.
Work with Lady Gaga[]
Eternal Fountain[]
Show Motion created the Eternal Fountain using heavy-wall aluminum, covered with geometrically shaped chrome cladding. At its peak stood a metallic silver hard coat angel statue, sculpted and carved from foam and fiberglass, fixed securely to the top. The prop featured a dual electrical/mechanical system: one powering the red-dyed water effects at the fountain’s base, and the other controlling a pyrotechnic effect unit positioned behind the statue.
The fountain was used during "Alejandro" in Act 3: Central Park (Forest) of The Monster Ball (2010–2011). Its design was inspired by the Bethesda Fountain in New York City's Central Park, serving as a symbolic centerpiece in Gaga’s theatrical narrative.
| “ | There it is, the Eternal Fountain ... the only fountain in the world that bleeds for you... 'cause my religion is you little monsters. | ” |
—Gaga, as part of the scripted monologue during the tour | ||
The fountain also appeared during Gaga’s performance of "Alejandro" on American Idol on May 5, 2010.
Projection ellipse[]
The Projection Ellipse is a large-scale scenic element designed, engineered, and fabricated by Show Motion in collaboration with Tait Towers and Jet Sets for Gaga’s Las Vegas residency Enigma (2018–2019).
The structure consisted of two oblong curved aluminum pieces, joined using multi-angle swivel connection brackets. It was constructed from 4" round aluminum tubes, bent to shape and sleeved together using custom-machined connection inserts, then secured with custom aluminum brace fittings. The entire frame was wrapped in Scotchlite projection screen material, allowing for custom visual integration throughout the show. Suspended above the stage, the ellipse served as a dynamic projection surface, displaying animated visuals and lighting effects that enhanced the futuristic, sci-fi aesthetic of the Enigma storyline. Its hovering presence became a signature visual motif of the residency, blending engineering precision with Gaga’s immersive theatrical vision.
Hydraulic lift[]
A custom hydraulic scissor lift was made by Show Motion and Jet Sets for Gaga’s performance of "Alice" at The Chromatica Ball (2022). The lift featured:
- Three stacked 8800 lb. capacity electric lift tables
- A custom hydraulic tilting mechanism for synchronized choreography
- Decorative cladding surrounding its aluminum and steel base frame
The lift rose and tilted up to 20 feet in the air, serving as a dynamic platform. It was covered with a brutalist design to match the tour theme.
Giant red gown[]
Link[]
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