People News

Obsidian Strengthens Global Team with the Hiring of Entertainment Lighting Controls Expert Edward Smith

UK – Obsidian Control Systems has announced the hiring of Edward Smith as the company’s new product support and development specialist. Edward is an authority in entertainment lighting control systems and a valued professional that Obsidian has been eager to bring on board for some time.

“Like many say, patience is a virtue and finding the right individual for this role was all about patience,” stated Koy Neminathan, business development director at Obsidian. “The Obsidian team and I have been monitoring Edward for some time and we are delighted to welcome him on board. His skill set is exactly what we require and will accelerate our development process, improve our user community management and assist us in many other areas too. As the Obsidian team continues to grow, we see similar parallels with our global user group, so the addition of Edward will help us better support our customers.”

Edward brings solid experience to the position from his previous role as a control product specialist at Zero 88 / Vari-Lite, where he worked providing technical support, software testing, product development, training and demonstrations for lighting consoles and data distribution products. While there, he was a key member of the software and hardware development teams and created a wealth of training resources such as videos and manuals, skills that will serve him well in his new role.

Based in the UK, Edward will use his expertise to support and grow the Obsidian user base. His primary areas of responsibility encompass technical support, software testing and training. His daily contact with users of the ONYX platform, including Obsidian’s global distributor network, will provide valuable market feedback that will be essential as he contributes to future software and hardware product development. Edward started in the new position on 1 October, 2024.

Obsidian Control Systems continues to experience remarkable growth in lighting console and data distribution solutions while strengthening its global team. The company has recently expanded its award-winning NETRON line of signal distribution devices with a comprehensive line tailored for system integrators and fixed installations and introduced the world's first IP66-rated devices for entertainment data distribution. 

“Obsidian Control Systems is in an exciting position in the market,” Edward remarked. “I am eager to support users with their NETRON data distribution products and am excited to ensure that ONYX console users can get the most out of their consoles. I look forward to playing a big role in the continued success and expansion of the Obsidian brand.” 

8th October 2024

­­Bandit Lites Promotes Sophie Phillips to Gen8 Leadership Role

USA – Bandit Lites continues its dynamic transformation in its Gen8 leadership with the promotion of Sophie Phillips to technical services manager. As an emerging leader in the Nashville office, Phillips brings an enthusiasm and commitment to forward-thinking approaches in all that she does with an extraordinary level of attention to detail.

Phillips earned her BFA in Lighting Design and Technology from Kent State University. While in college, she worked at Cedar Point, Porthouse Theatre and was the president of the technical theatre group for two years. She joined Bandit Lites in 2021 as a moving light technician where she aided in inspecting, troubleshooting and repairing all incoming equipment before it heads out on the next show. Now as the technical services manager, Phillips will oversee the entirety of Bandit’s technical service department, a move that she says makes her feel “empowered.”

“I have grown a lot over the last three years and am ready and willing to start a new generation of Bandits,” said Phillips. “Michael T. Strickland is at his core a leader and his ability to trust people and move forward is a skill. He has taught me that being a manager isn't about the efficiency of the team, or the unit count for the day, but it is about learning, listening and leading. I clock in every day excited to learn, not only from our all-star TSD team whom I am deeply grateful for, but from project managers, integration, and VP’s. I am very honoured to be placed in this position of trust, and excited to see where we can go.”

“Since arriving at Bandit, Sophie has become a true leader in the family,” said Jake Tickle, vice president of business and innovation. “She always steps up to the plate with a remarkable work ethic and fresh ideas. She loves a challenge and is truly one of a kind! Sophie is one of the best in the business and we are very fortunate to have her on our team.”

“As Jake Tickle is, and has been, the leader of the international facility, he needs an amazing structure to support him and Sophie is the perfect choice to lead the TSD,” said Bandit Lites chair Michael T. Strickland. “Jake hand-picked Sophie to join the team and again he hand-picked her to lead the TSD. I concur 110 percent with his decision; since day one Sophie has shown leadership skills, dedication and a tremendous desire to get the job done. Her work is always impeccable and her heart is amazing. I look forward to great things from Sophie and watching her grow and move upward will be a blessing. Between Sophie and Kelly, under Jake’s guidance, the sky is the limit! I want to thank Sophie and indeed the entire team for being so amazing! Onward and Upward! Gen8 rocks!”

24th September 2024

Backup Tech introduces 2024 Backup Ambassadors

UK – Backup Tech has announced the latest Backup Ambassadors. Backup trustee, Koy Neminathan, has overseen the Ambassador programme and is delighted to introduce Chris West, Lee House, Luke Edwards, Paul Jones and Amber Etra.

Ambassadors spread the word about what Backup does to the wider industry, encouraging companies to become Backup Partners and helping individuals raise money for Backup through fundraising initiatives. Ambassadors also attend live activities, meetings and events, including the annual Backup Village Fete. It is a great way to get involved with the charity and help get others involved, too. Chris, Lee, Luke and Amber explain why they decided to get involved with Backup and what they hope to achieve for the charity.

Chris West runs West Training Services and decided to become an ambassador to help ensure the future of the charity by raising awareness and supporting its work. He realised how well placed he was to spread the word day-to-day and wanted to play his part.

“I meet a lot of people through my training courses, so it’s easy to spend a few minutes at the end of the session raising awareness of Backup,” he says. “I know people that Backup has supported directly and people that benefited from the work it does and I'd like to think that Backup would be there for me if I ever needed it. My feeling is, if you want it, you need to support it! There's a lot of taboo around mental health and people don’t want to recognise the issues. Getting that information signposted is just as important as knowing about the financial support Backup offers.”

Lee House, managing director of Ambersphere Solutions Ltd, had a rough start in his teenage years when an argument at home left him in need of help from a local charity. The stigma of asking for help affected him at the time, but he knows it was a lifesaver for him. Thirty years on he is keen to make sure others have a positive experience and fully understand the courage and determination asking for help entails.

“The challenges I’ve faced in my life have given me a unique insight. Stepping up to do more for Backup feels like the right thing to do.” he says. “I am at a management level now, so making sure my staff and the people around us know about the counselling, the financial help and all the good work Backup does is just a responsibility we have.”

Luke Edwards is founder of Bear Bright Studios and was a production manager for large-scale touring. Witnessing a tragic accident on tour made him realise how important mental health support can be. A brain tumour diagnosis followed a few years later, coupled with a worldwide pandemic, but Luke found the strength to get through it and now wants to give back by helping others get through the challenges they face.

“In 2018, our tour bus was involved in a fatal accident in America. As a first aider and production manager, I was first on the scene and saw everything. Psychologically, that was tough,” Luke explains. “Music Support helped me through and I’ve been a staunch supporter ever since. When I was diagnosed with a brain tumour in 2020, I considered Backup’s support, but decided I didn’t need it. The industry knows about the resources the charity can offer, but there is still a lot of stigma around asking for help. I want to be part of de-stigmatising that and give something back to the industry that has supported me.”

Christie Lites’ Amber Etra has worked in the entertainment sector for almost 15 years and is a dedicated volunteer swimming teacher. She says being part of the community has been interwoven into her moral compass for as long as she can remember. She feels that everyone should have access to learning to swim.

“It’s a life skill,” she says. “That’s how I feel about Backup. Everyone should have access to support when they need it; kindness and support should be at the heart of everything we do. Sometimes we have an excess to give and sometimes we need it ourselves. Backup helps that balance for people when they need it most.”

Paul Jones's company Ethix Management is run exclusively by freelancers and Paul set up the UK Live Event Freelancers Forum Facebook group right at the start of the pandemic with the simple aim of offering a place where freelancers could go and get help and support during one of the most difficult times our industry has ever seen.

“I never thought that something so simple would become one of the most respected places for freelancers to go and get information and help on a wealth of subjects,” he explains. “Music support stepped in to help me in the early days and after doing mental health first aid training, it changed me for the better and made me realise just how many freelancers don’t get the help they need, supporting Backup was an absolute honour and so necessary to help ensure the freelance community receives continued support for its members which now stands at 32,000 people.

Ambassadors do vital work for Backup and there are many ways to help spread information throughout the industry. To find out more about how to get involved, visit www.backuptech.uk.

In picture: Chris West, Lee House, Luke Edwards, Amber Etra and Paul Jones.

18th September 2024

3LR Lighting Strengthens Team with Appointment of Karoliina Helin as In-House Architectural Lighting Designer 

3LR has announced that Karoliina Helin will be joining the team as its in-house architectural lighting designer. 

A native of Finland, Karoliina’s lighting career started after she graduated from UWE with a degree in interior architecture. Realising the power that lighting could have within a space, one she describes as ‘artistic, creative and technical all at the same time’, she joined re:Light in Bristol where she worked as senior lighting designer. She has since worked for Satore Studio in Cardiff as well as being a freelance lighting designer, during which time she collaborated with 3LR on hundreds of projects.

She comments: “I am thrilled to officially become a part of 3LR Lighting. Over the past three years, I’ve worked with Matt and the team on countless occasions and we share the same passion of bringing spaces to life through lighting, particularly driven by the emotional response this creates. Similarly, as someone who has vast experience of working within auditoriums – an area in which 3LR is an ever-growing presence – I look forward to exploring new venues together and seeing how these can be transformed through the use of lighting.”

As part of her role at 3LR, Karoliina will work with the team on a variety of projects, in a number of capacities. For any new space, Karoliina will devise a brand-new lighting design, which fulfils the client’s creative vision as well as the ethos of the building. She’ll be responsible for colour temperatures, beam angles, lighting levels via the DIALux software, along with any other specifications of the utilised fittings. Similarly, for spaces that require upgrades, Karoliina will oversee a ‘like-for-like’ replacement, meaning she’ll be able to devise a plan with state-of-the-art fixtures that replicate the look and feel of an existing set-up.

Matt Lloyd, 3LR’s managing director, comments: “We’re so thrilled to have Karoliina joining our team. It’s a natural move, given how many times we’ve drawn on her services previously, and how her work has always gone above and beyond our expectations. As a company that works in spaces including (but not limited to) auditoriums, theatres, architectural buildings, entertainment spaces and even maritime projects, Karoliina has vast experience in all of these and we cannot wait for her to meet our clients and manufacturers who will benefit from her creative and technical skills.”

Karoliina’s appointment at 3LR is another example of the company strengthening its in-house expertise to offer its clients an unparalleled level of service.

17th September 2024

Laurent Theurin joins as Technical Sales Manager for France, as Brompton continues to expand its European team

France – Brompton Technology has announced the appointment of Laurent Theurin as technical sales manager for France. Theurin brings over two decades of experience in the audiovisual industry, with more than ten years specialising in image processing.

Starting his career in the late 90s, Theurin held various positions, ranging from technical support to software workflow creation and UX design, as well as project management and customer training. His past experience includes working with prestigious companies such as INSEAD, UTRAM and Barco.

“Image quality, reliability and innovation are what I love about my job,” says Theurin. “For these reasons, I’m thrilled to join the motivated and professional team at Brompton Technology. I know their LED processors reach all my expectations and I’m proud to present and support their products for professionals with LED wall needs.”

As part of Brompton’s expanding sales team, Theurin will report to the company’s director of sales, Lotta Schiefer, who is extremely enthusiastic about his appointment.

“Laurent is highly regarded in the industry, and his vast experience in image processing is a valuable asset,” says Schiefer. “His strong network of contacts, combined with his technical expertise, will allow Brompton to further strengthen relationships with clients in France and beyond.”

Theurin looks forward to attending IBC2024 in Amsterdam and is excited about meeting Brompton’s  customers at the show.

 

16th September 2024

Follow-Me appoints Thijs Bruins as Global Sales Manager

The Neherlands – Follow-Me, manufacturer of high-end performer tracking solutions for lighting, immersive audio, video mapping and stage automation applications, has announced the appointment of Thijs Bruins as global sales manager.

Thijs will oversee the Follow-Me global sales network, aligning existing partners, expanding the network to improve customer experience and providing a strong base for the company’s future growth.

“We are really happy Thijs is joining Follow-Me,” Marc van der Wel, managing director says. “He brings lots of technical and commercial knowledge, industry experience and enthusiasm to our growing company.”

Thijs has a wealth of technical expertise. Starting out at a young age as a lighting technician and continuing to juggle this freelance work and training, his early experience underpins his deep understanding of the live events, theatrical and AV industries.

After years of freelancing, Thijs moved on to the role of manager of special projects at Trekwerk, before joining TAIT as business development manager. Thijs oversaw the growth of TAIT’s presence in Europe, even through a global pandemic.

“Thijs will be communicating with our customers, show designers and sales partners to further establish and grow our market presence, expanding our renowned client support,” explains Marc. “We are looking forward to working on our company’s future together with Thijs.”

“I'm thrilled to join Follow-Me as the global sales manager,” Thijs concludes. “Follow-Me is a company that has truly revolutionised the live entertainment industry with its innovative performer tracking solutions and I'm eager to contribute to our continued global growth by connecting even more clients with the cutting-edge technology that Follow-Me is known for. Together, we'll push the boundaries of what's possible in live entertainment.”

16th September 2024

­­­­Kelly Feild Joins Leadership as part of Bandit Gen8

USA – When Kelly Feild returned to Bandit Lites as the director of personnel, she referred to it as ‘coming home.’ Now fully settled into her new position in the office, she has demonstrated exceptional initiative by embracing a new leadership position in the Nashville office, working alongside Bandit Lites vice president of business and innovation, Jake Tickle. By stepping up and taking on additional responsibilities, she will be guiding projects with a fresh perspective, contributing to Bandit’s growth.

Kelly now serves as the second in command at the Bandit international facility in Nashville. As the second in command, this continues the Bandit move into what the firm calls Gen8 at Bandit.

“A new generation of young, talented people are taking the leadership positions to guide Bandit through the next 30 years,” said Bandit Lites chair and founder Michael T. Strickland. “Kelly and several other younger people are now in the critical roles at Bandit. They both follow the established Bandit standards, but with a point of view and outlook for how to improve every day. The one constant is change and Kelly is big part of the Gen8 change at Bandit.”

With Feild’s experience in live events combined with her BBA in Music Business from Belmont University, she has the ideal union of real-world application and practical education.

“I started at Bandit with a business degree and almost no technical experience,” Feild said when hired back at Bandit full time. “Bandit taught me everything I needed to know to successfully tour as lighting tech. I know how to do the office part of my job, but I also understand what I am asking people to do when I schedule them on a tour.”

Feild’s willingness to take on new challenges, support colleagues and drive new solutions will propel Bandit towards achieving excellence every day for its clients.

“Kelly is the ultimate guru of organisation and communication,” said Tickle. “She is always on the ball and knocks projects out with ease. Having worked with and mentored Kelly for a long time, I am excited to see her continually grow in her role at Bandit Lites. We are a better company with her in it!”

Throughout her career, Michael T. Strickland, Jake Tickle and John Lucksinger have cheered on and supported Feild, and this new chapter of collaboration signifies not only a full circle moment, but an exciting opportunity for both to leverage their combined experience and dedication to make Bandit a better place for all.

“Kelly has both the appetite and the ability to help take Bandit through the next 30 years and working at the highest level. I have met many times with Kelly, and you know at once she is extraordinarily capable,” finished Strickland. “Kelly’s education and work experience at Belmont coupled with time on the road has made Kelly the perfect part of Gen8 leaders at Bandit. Kelly serves as a leader every day at Bandit Lites, and we all have the utmost trust and respect for her. Thank you for coming home Kelly!”

4th September 2024

ETC Ltd welcomes new addition to growing sales team

UK – ETC Ltd has announced the newest addition to its growing sales force: Joe McDonald as field project co-ordinator for the UK and Ireland. In his new role, Joe will be managing sales projects and building customer and end user relationships across the country. He will support regional sales manager Jeremy Roberts and associate regional sales manager Matt Cowles in working with ETC’s dealers, distributors and customers.

Joe previously worked as assistant head of lighting at Curve Theatre in Leicester where he gained in-depth knowledge and insight on ETC’s equipment and how best to use the products to meet the needs of the shows. Over a number of years his experience led him to work as a production electrician for the theatre’s own shows such as ‘A Chorus Line’ (UK tour) and ‘Evita’. Joe has also worked on musical productions which have toured the UK including ‘The Bodyguard’, ‘Calendar Girls’ and ‘An Officer and a Gentleman’.

Regional sales manager, Jeremy Roberts comments: “We are thrilled to have Joe join our sales team. His many years of experience in theatre lighting makes him a great asset and a valuable addition to ETC.”

Joe and the team from ETC will be at the PLASA Show from 1st-3rd September in the Olympia London. 

29th August 2024

Bose Professional Appoints Adam Castillo as Vice President of Global Marketing

USA – Bose Professional, developer of world-class audio experiences designed to transform any space, has announced the appointment of Adam Castillo as vice president of global marketing. Castillo brings over 20 years of experience leading marketing teams at companies ranging from start-ups to large, global technology companies. He joins a diverse and growing list of senior tech professionals recruited to the newly independent Bose Professional team in the last year. Castillo will report to CEO John Maier.

"We are thrilled to welcome Adam to the Bose Professional team," said Maier. "His deep experience in global marketing and extensive expertise in the pro-audio industry will be invaluable as we continue to grow our business and expand our reach. We consider ourselves fortunate to be able to benefit from his experience and are excited to have him as part of Bose Professional.”   

Adam Castillo has held senior marketing positions at companies including Logitech, Avid and Blue Microphones, where he has led global marketing strategy and execution, brand strategy and development, and product marketing among other functions. He is the creative architect behind multiple global brand launches and brings with him extensive experience in new market development. At Bose Professional he will lend his skills to help position the company for explosive growth in its new era as a stand-alone organisation.

"I am excited to join Bose Professional at such a pivotal moment,” said Castillo. “I’m grateful to be part of such an impressive leadership team that was brought on to build the next chapter for the company. The company’s overall talent, the technology, and its 50 plus year legacy are all ready to be harnessed, it's rare to see so much potential in one place.”

After being taken private in April 2023, Bose Professional has been building and expanding its autonomous operations and infrastructure at a rapid pace over the last four quarters, most recently announcing the launch of their new hybrid US sales organisation. In addition to filling key positions, Bose Professional has opened ten new offices and experience centres in cities around the world this year, including Tokyo, London and Shanghai, empowering local teams to deliver best-in-class sales and service to their customers. 

29th August 2024

Riku Kauppinen has left the stage

Germany - It is with profound sorrow that MA Lighting has announced the passing of Riku Mikael Kauppinen, who died peacefully on Friday, 16th August, 2024, at the age of 52, after a courageous battle with cancer. Riku was surrounded by his family & friends at the time of his passing.

Riku was a highly respected and beloved figure in the lighting industry, known for his innovative approach, technical expertise and unwavering passion for his work. Riku held a Master of Arts in Theatre and Drama with a specialisation in lighting design from the Theatre Academy of the University of the Arts Helsinki. His education and early experiences shaped him into a leader who was not only skilled but deeply connected to the art and science of lighting design.

Riku's career spanned over a decade, marked by significant achievements and a relentless dedication to advancing the field of lighting. He joined MA Lighting International GmbH in 2009 as a regional sales manager and quickly distinguished himself with his knowledge, creativity and leadership. Next, he held the position of director of sales, where he was instrumental in expanding the company's presence across the Russian, Eastern European and Scandinavian markets. Most recently, he served as the director of business development, driving innovation and growth for the company.

Before joining MA Lighting, Riku worked at PRG Distribution, where he gained valuable experience in product sales, rental and lighting design. His diverse background, which included working with theatres and touring with Finnish rock bands, gave him a unique perspective that he brought to every project. He was not just a professional; he was a true "Lichtmensch": a passionate advocate for the power of light in storytelling and performance.

He is remembered not only for his professional acumen but also for his personal qualities. He was a man of kindness and compassion, always putting others before himself. Whether he was mentoring a colleague, sharing his deep knowledge during a debate or simply enjoying a meal with friends, Riku's presence was deeply felt and will be sorely missed.

Riku's final wish was to have his ashes scattered at sea, allowing him to continue to travel the world, one of the things he loved so much. He also felt that it allows everyone to light a candle by the sea and have a moment with him whenever and wherever.

His legacy in the industry will endure through the countless lives he touched and the innovations he championed.

The void left by Riku’s passing is immeasurable and thoughts are with his family and friends during this difficult time. As the loss of a remarkable individual is mourned, there is also a celebration of the impact he had on the industry and the enduring friendships he forged.

“Rest in peace, dear friend and colleague. You will be forever missed.”

Your MA Lighting family.

www.malighting.com 

29th August 2024