Tag Archive: Lee Dennison

1. White Light Provides Technical Installation for Ground-Breaking Safety Leadership Project

   24 November 2020 10:45 Leave a Comment

   

   Taking place at a purpose-built centre on the Humber, Thrive is a fully-interactive, multi-media safety leadership programme that immerses participants in a real-time, live-action scenario. The concept was created by Active Team Training (ATT) and offers those taking part a truly ground-breaking training experience. Having collaborated with White Light (WL) on previous award-winning projects, ATT approached the company once again to supply the complete technical solutions.
   
   Thrive has been created for renewable energy company Ørsted, who wanted an induction programme for their contractors and employees due to work on Hornsea Two. Situated in the North Sea, 89 km off the Yorkshire Coast, Hornsea Two is an off-shore wind farm that, once completed, will be the largest in the world. It will power over 1.3 million homes with green electricity and its 165 turbines will span across 462km². For a project of this magnitude, Ørsted needed to ensure the most effective safety leadership training was implemented; hence they approached ATT.
   
   Dermot Kerrigan, ATT Co-Director, comments: “Ørsted had seen EPIC, which is our award-winning safety leadership training experience that is specific to the Thames Tideway Tunnel Project. EPIC takes participants on a ‘day in the death’ of a worker who loses their life in a construction accident. The physical layout comprises a number of immersive, site-specific theatre sets, in which participants experience events leading to the fatality, as well as the fatality itself and its consequences. Participants discuss what went wrong and are then supplied with some safety leadership skills before being parachuted back into the scenario, where they apply these techniques and stop the accident from happening. Since its inception in 2015, EPIC has proved to be a game-changer in the way that the construction industry now goes about inducting its workforce. So, Ørsted wanted to do something similar with Thrive”.
   
   It was down to the team at ATT to create a scenario in which those working on Hornsea 2 would be able to become more confident in maintaining a high health and safety standard– given the dangers of the off-shore working environment. Once ATT had decided on a narrative and user journey, they not only needed to find a suitable location to build the experience but ensure they had the technical infrastructure to deliver such an ambitious project; at which point they approached WL.
   
   Lee Dennison, WL’s Head of Business Development, comments: “We travelled up to Grimsby with Dermot and the team where they had secured an appropriate space, which actually used to be an old engineering warehouse. We surveyed the building then drew up the various plans as to which spaces could be used for the various locations featured in the training. Essentially, ATT knew how they wanted the spaces to be utilised and it was our task to provide the technical overlay for each one”.

   

   In total, there were five main creative spaces that would be used as part of the immersive training: the Site Office/HQ; the Flat; the Police Interview Suite; the Welfare Area; as well as the main Site Area itself. Lee explains: “Each one of these spaces had a very particular feel and specification and it was down to us to help create that. For the main Site Area, as this is the space in which participants find themselves at the start of the training, it was vital that they were able to feel fully immersed from the off. As such, we installed a 4m x 25m curved screen, onto which footage of the wind power dockside was projected, as well as an immersive soundscape which made them feel as if they were actually on site.

   He continues: “The Flat was the home of the worker who was involved in the accident and we were able to create a pepper’s ghost effect where participants were able to see into the morgue as well as hear from the surviving child of the worker; ensuring the training was as emotionally impactful as possible. Similarly, the Police Interview Suite was where participants witness the repercussions of what happened through interviews so audio clarity was key. This was also the case for the Site Office, in which we had to create the feeling that we were ‘on-site’ at all times. Ultimately, we had to draw on our technical expertise and prior experience to create a set-up that was as realistic, and therefore as powerful, as possible: something we were able to achieve”.
   
   Once the technical layout was decided, WL had four months to complete the installation and to ensure everything was in place prior to the first round of training. However, the outbreak of Covid-19 saw that this would have to be delayed. Dermot comments: “Similar to most organisations, the impact of Covid has been incredibly frustrating and meant that we’ve had to change our timeframes and the way we work. What was fantastic though was the way WL conducted themselves throughout the whole process. We worked closely with them to discuss what could be achieved within the guidelines, how long it would take and put together a real plan of action to move the project forward. So while it took slightly longer than expected, working together, we finally got to where we needed to be”.
   
   The centre has now opened and, with Covid-regulations in place, means that 18 participants can attend each day. Once restrictions are lifted, this should rise to 39 and the facility will eventually be available to use for any organisation working in the Wind Power and related industries.
   
   Lee concludes: “It was a privilege to build on our existing relationship with ATT and deliver this incredibly ambitious project in what continues to be surreal times. What ATT create is nothing short of extraordinary and we are proud to have been able to help them achieve their technical and creative vision on an important project which genuinely transforms the way people experience health and safety and creates a long-lasting impact in the process”.
   
   Photos courtesy of ATT.

2. Lee Dennison – Five Years at WL…

   7 November 2019 13:31 Leave a Comment

   

   Our Head of Business Development Lee Dennison recently celebrated five years at WL. As such, we thought we’d sit down with him to discuss his time here, his current role and how the company has evolved since he started.

   When Lee first joined WL back in 2014, it wasn’t in response to a specific job advertisement. Rather, the move was a natural progression. He explains: “I’ve always had a very close affinity to WL. When I worked with my previous companies, I knew of their reputation and had often come in contact with its team, particularly Bryan Raven and Richard Wilson. My joining them came after a chance conversation with Bryan who told me that they were keen to expand their audio offering and provide a credible, competitive service for the clients. It sounded like a great opportunity and one I was delighted to take”.

   When Lee joined WL, the company was keen to begin offering audio services in-house as opposed to outsourcing through others. He comments: “What was so exciting about the role was that it presented an opportunity for me to oversee a fresh audio offering, in which I was able to create a structure, assemble a team and work closely with manufacturers to ensure we were making the right level of investment. What really drew me to the role though was WL’s ethos. It is a company with morals and ethics and wanted to offer customers the correct level of support that would be suited for them – something I’ve always been an advocate of”.

   For the next two years, Lee oversaw WL’s audio department, which quickly grew a strong reputation of supplying bespoke audio solutions; particularly in the corporate event, production and installations market. Yet, for Lee, the growth of team remains one of his proudest achievement: “One of the joys of my role is seeing those who work for the company develop their skills and knowledge. These are people like Leo Humphrey, who joined the company in a junior role and is now a Key Account Manager, as well as Kieran Edmonds who’s now a Project Support Engineer in the Installations team. It’s been fantastic to see them progress and grow as individuals, as well as valuable members of the WL team”.

   With the audio department quickly establishing a formidable reputation, Lee’s next role at WL was to oversee the entire Business Development team. He comments: “Similar to when I initially joined WL, my role as Head of Business Development was another natural step. I’ve always enjoyed what I call ‘front-facing’ work in which I listen to what clients want and work closely with them in order to build long-term relationships. I’m often the first point of contact for a lot of them and relish providing the service they expect from WL. Ultimately, people invest in people and, as a company, WL’s greatest strength has always been its staff and this is a mantra we want to hold onto”.

   Having worked on a range of exciting projects, we asked Lee which was his most memorable during his time at WL. Unsurprisingly, there isn’t just one. He recalls: “I’m particularly proud of our work on the Active Team Training EPIC project; which was an experimental and immersive training programme designed for those working on the Thames Tideway Tunnel. It was pioneering at the time and nobody really knew what it was ‘all about’ but it has since proven itself to be an incredible form of health and safety training. It was also fantastic working with Discovery Eurosport on last year’s Winter Olympic Games coverage and showcasing our SmartStage technology; which is now creating a huge buzz in the education, corporate and events sectors”.

   Whilst Lee is happy to reflect on his time at WL so far, he’s mainly excited about the future and the next steps for the company. He concludes: “A large part of my role now at WL is looking forward and asking where we are going and what type of work we want to take on. As a company, we’re always changing, constantly evolving and that’s really exciting to be a part of. We continue to invest in the latest technology, strengthening our expert teams and ensuring we continue offering our clients the highest level of service possible. Here’s to the next five years!”.

3. White Light Invests in the Latest Audio Equipment

   27 November 2018 09:41 Leave a Comment

   

   From L to R: Richard McLean (d&b), Harry McCann (audio freelancer), Dave Isherwood (WL’s Technical Director), Tom Jeffrey (MD at SFL) and Lee Dennison (WL’s Head of Audio).

    

   As the technical solutions specialist, White Light is constantly investing in the very latest audio equipment to ensure its clients have access to state-of-the-art technology. Following the formation of its audio department four years ago, the company has continued to grow its inventory and recently made a significant investment in a range of leading audio products from manufacturers including d&b, DPA and Shure.

   WL’s Head of Audio Lee Dennison comments: “Ever since we launched our audio department four years ago, we’ve formed a reputation of being able to supply customers with audio solutions bespoke to their needs. Alongside our existing relationships with leading manufacturers, our long-term plan was to start introducing further large brands in year four and ensure we have equipment that is industry-standard and suitable for the range of markets we work in, from theatre to live events to broadcast”.

   The recent d&b investment includes speakers from the E, Y and V series. Lee explains: “We are delighted to have made this commitment to d&b and take on a range of their loudspeakers. These are industry-recognised products and having them readily available in our hire stock will allow us to continue serving our client’s needs”.

   There has been an immediate interest in the d&b range and the systems have already been used on an eclectic range of events, including Six Day London at Lee Valley VeloPark, the UNICEF Halloween Ball which featured a live performance by Rita Ora as well as the WWF Living Planet Lecture at Central Hall Westminster. Lee adds: “With the d&b range already proving extremely popular, this not only showcases its versatility but also the fact that these industry-recognised products are often the first choice for a lot of audio professionals”.

   WL is also continuing its investment in DPA microphone products, including the eagerly-anticipated d:screet CORE 6000 series. This is DPA’s smallest high-end pro audio microphone capsule and has been developed from years of research with leading theatre, film and television professionals. Lee explains: “We are delighted to be continuing our relationship with DPA and this latest investment shows our commitment to both the brand and these fantastic new products. They are the go-to manufacturer when it comes to microphones, whether it’s for theatre shows, conferences or award ceremonies; making them an invaluable asset to our hire inventory”.

   As an Elite Rental Partner for Shure, WL has continuously invested in the company’s pioneering products. This now includes the brand-new Axient Digital Range. With an unprecedented level of signal stability and audio clarity, the Axient Range incorporates some of the most innovative wireless audio technology in the world. Lee explains: “We had invested in Axient earlier this year but we have now pushed into the ADX range of transmitters including the brand-new ADX1M. They are not only powerful but extremely discrete; making them a game-changer for the corporate market”.

   The d&b, DPA and Shure products are now all available to rent from WL’s hire stock and clients are encouraged to contact WL’s expert team with any queries they may have. Lee concludes: “What this latest investment indicates is our constant desire to pioneer the very latest products and ensure our audio inventory is industry-standard; offering our entire breadth of clients with the best equipment possible”.

   Contact WL’s Hire Team on [email protected] or +44(0)20 8254 482

4. White Light Wins AV Technology Europe Award

   11 February 2018 11:18 Comments Off on White Light Wins AV Technology Europe Award

   The AV Technology Europe Awards are dedicated to recognising innovation and achievements in the AV industry. The Awards provide a brand-new platform for the AV end-user community to celebrate the increasingly pivotal role that AV plays for businesses around the world; from corporate to hospitality, education to retail, and everything in between. This year’s award ceremony took place in Amsterdam and WL was the recipient of Best Small to Mid-Scale AV Project.

   WL was awarded the accolade following its work on the Cambridge University fundraising event at Banqueting House. For the project, WL was approached by the University to provide the technical solutions that would engage key stakeholders. Led by WL’s Creative Producer Richard Stirzaker, the team drew on the latest video and projection technology to create a digital canvas inside Banqueting House; resulting in a fully immersive environment for when guests arrived. Alongside this, there were several live speakers on the evening who include Stephen Fry. To ensure the speeches were as interactive as possible, WL created a system in which animated graphics, created by Johnson banks, were triggered by key words in the speeches. There was also a digital sound audio environment that was created within the space.

   WL Director Richard Wilson comments: “We are delighted to have won at this year’s AV Technology Europe Awards. The fundraiser at Banqueting House is a great example of how we are able to work closely with a client and not only deliver a brief but go beyond their expectations. Using the latest technology, our expert teams and the beautiful architecture within Banqueting House, we were able to create something spectacular and it’s an event we are extremely proud of”.

   The Award marks another accolade that WL has received over the past few months, with the company winning the Best Use of AV Technology at the Event Technology Awards as well as Event Production Supplier of the Year at the Drum UK Event Awards. The company is also shortlisted for two awards at the upcoming Event Production Awards which includes Event Production of the Year and Best Use of Technology at an Event.

   

   Richard adds: “The fact that our work is being recognised on an international scale is a credit to the fantastic team we have at WL, who are able to push boundaries on any event using the very latest technology. We now want to grow on this success and ensure that we continue to deliver the high-level of service that has become synonymous with our company and make every single event we work on unforgettable”.

   The AV Technology Europe Awards took place during this year’s Integrated Systems Europe Show. The WL team were in Amsterdam to scope out the latest technology first-hand. WL’s Head of Business Development Lee Dennison comments: “As seen with the AV Technology Award, we are a company pioneering the use of the very latest technology, ensuring that our clients have access to state-of-the-art equipment. One of our main reasons for attending ISE was to seek out the products of tomorrow today, along with catching up with partners and old friends. We were really impressed with what we saw and will be looking to add to our already extensive industry over the upcoming months”.

   Photos courtesy of Alastair Fyfe.

    

5. White Light Appointed First-Ever d3 Certified System Provider

   18 September 2017 07:59 Comments Off on White Light Appointed First-Ever d3 Certified System Provider

   

   The lighting for ITV Sport’s Euro 2016 coverage was a winner at this year’s Knight of Illumination Awards. The project saw Lighting Designers Chris Hollier and Andy Cottey work closely with the WL team to utilise d3 technology.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                     

   d3 Technologies’ integrated solution has been at the heart of some of the world’s most spectacular live events; from concert touring to theatre to broadcast and even architecture. The d3 software allows you to visualise, design and sequence your project before seamlessly turning your concept into a creation using one of their hardware solutions. Their new gx range, which was on show at this week’s PLASA London, pushes real time responsive content to new heights, allowing you to discover unimagined new ways to connect with your audience.

   As the technical solution specialist, White Light has drawn on d3’s state-of-the-art technology for a wide range of projects across a variety of markets. WL, who were announced as a d3 Solution Provider earlier this year, have now become a d3 Rental and Sales Partner, making them the first company in a position to offer all three aspects of the full service Certified System Provider.

   Lee Dennison, WL’s Head of Business Development, comments: “We are delighted to be the first global company to hold the position of full service d3 Certified System Provider, which marks the next step in our growing relationship with d3 Technologies.  As a company renowned for our sales, rental and installation services, we want to ensure that our wide range of customers are able to benefit from drawing on the d3 brand. With this new partnership, we are able to combine our creative vision, expert staff and years of experience with d3’s revolutionary technology to ensure that their products are used as innovatively as possible; whatever the occasion”.

   

   WL drew on d3 technology for the University of Cambridge Fundraiser at Banqueting House. The event has been shortlisted for an international award for its ground-breaking use of technology.

   Sarah Cox, Sales Director EMEA for d3 Technologies, states: “We’ve been really impressed with how WL has utilised d3 within their projects over the last year. For the recent University of Cambridge fundraiser at Banqueting House, the company used our 4x4pro media server to project animated graphics onto the building’s interior windows; creating a fully immersive environment. Projects like this show how d3 can be used creatively and it’s no surprise that the event has now been shortlisted for an award”.

   Lee adds: “Over the past twelve months, WL and d3 have collaborated on a range of projects, from the ITV Sport Formula E Studio to the ground-breaking interactive training system for ATT to the adidas F2 live show which was streamed from the roof of BBC Television Centre. With several more international projects in the pipeline over the upcoming months, this is a really exciting time for both companies as we offer innovative solutions that previously weren’t available”.

   WL’s appointment as a full service Certified System Provider began immediately with d3 Technologies at this week’s PLASA Show, London. The d3 team was on-hand to speak to customers about the appointment as well as showcase the eagerly awaited gx range, which is now shipping across the EMEA region.

6. White Light Returns to 40th PLASA Show

   23 August 2017 08:09 Comments Off on White Light Returns to 40th PLASA Show

   The PLASA Show returns to Olympia London next month for what will be its 40^th anniversary. The event will once again present ground-breaking technology and exciting new launches by the world’s greatest designers and engineers. As the technical solutions specialist, White Light will be exhibiting on stand L50 where its expert staff will be on hand to meet customers old and new as well as present a range of revolutionary technology.

   This year’s PLASA Show promises to be the most exciting yet. Located in the heart of West London, there will be live demo opportunities for the audio and lighting sectors, technical workshops, training sessions along with topical seminars. WL’s Head of Business Development Lee Dennison comments: “We are delighted to be returning to the PLASA Show after what has been yet another significant twelve months for the company. In that time, we’ve become the in-house technical supplier at Claridge’s Hotel, installed exhibitions at the V&A and Saatchi Gallery, supported the relaunch of Hintze Hall at the Natural History Museum as well as continued to supply the biggest shows in the West End”.

   The company has also continued to invest heavily in the latest technology and will be displaying a range of products available on ShopWL at the show. This includes d3 Technologies – for which WL has recently been appointed as a Certified Solutions Provider. Lee comments: “The larger and more ambitious the projects we work on become, the more we have found ourselves drawing on d3 products. As the world’s first integrated video production suite, it really is the ultimate software to visualise, design and sequence projects. We have our own fleet of d3 hardware which we are really looking forward to discussing with customers”.

   Interactive Technologies is a world-class producer of professional lighting controls for the architectural, entertainment, stage and studio markets. The company’s products will also be on the WL stand, including the CueServer 2 which will be demonstrated by Interactive’s staff. Peter Threadgold, WL’s Customer Services Director, states: “The CueServer 2 has completely revolutionised lighting playback, making it much more user friendly. It can also be customised for different installation environments, eliminating the need for external adaptors. It’s exciting that we’ll be able to show this first-hand to those visiting the stand”.

   

   WL’s Mark Morley and Jonathan Haynes will be on the WL stand

   Also on the stand is Wireless Solution. Wireless Solution designs and produces W-DMX™ , the twice award-winning Wireless DMX system that is today the un-official standard for those that require the most dependable product available for transmitting lighting control data wirelessly, no matter the distance or location. The products on the WL stand include the revolutionary BlackBox G5, which both transmits and receives mode of DMX and RDM signals as well as operates in three different frequency bands, giving access to more channels.

   This year’s PLASA Show takes place from 17-19^th September. Also on display will be a range of other equipment stocked by WL including lighting fixtures, smoke machines, several LED video walls and video ceiling from Ledgo.

   Lee comments: “We’re really excited to be displaying at the PLASA Show once again – especially in its 40^th year. Looking at the programme, there is once again a hive of activity and we really look forward to catching up with old friends and creating new relationships”.

   Don’t forget to register now: https://registration.n200.com/survey/3rrbbikjs08sw?actioncode=NTWO000232JAO&partner-contact=0ls7bfbbzkly7

    

7. White Light Provides Technical Installation of Ground-Breaking Health & Safety Training

   8 June 2017 08:51 Comments Off on White Light Provides Technical Installation of Ground-Breaking Health & Safety Training

   Active Training Team (ATT) offers experiential and immersive training programmes in order to bring about behavioural change in people and organisations. The company was recently appointed by Tideway to create an immersive, one-day induction experience for all employees working on the Thames Tideway Tunnel – a multi billion-pound super-sewer being constructed beneath the river Thames. Tideway has a very clear aspiration to deliver transformational health and safety performance and to set new standards, and so it recruited ATT to develop the induction day. White Light was called upon to provide and install the complete technical solution for this award-winning and unique project.

   The project is called EPIC (Employer Project Induction Centre): A Day in the Death of Michael Clark and sees participants experience a fictional incident on a construction site. Attendees, of which more than 6,000 have already taken part, are taken through a variety of situations, from the incident itself to the aftermath in order to see the full impact of such an event. EPIC is specific to Tideway’s current construction project and ATT worked closely with the company to create the programme. Dermot Kerrigan, Director at ATT, comments: “Tideway told us about the project and what they wanted to explore. As a company, we came together and began to storyline various scenarios. These roles are then brought to life by a group of actors who rehearse each scenario to make it appear as realistic as possible”.

   ATT’s role was to supply the complete training package to Tideway, which is everything from the story, production, actors, rehearsals, space, stage management and even equipment; which is where WL came in. Adam Christopher, Dermot’s co-Director at ATT, comments: “As we are all from a theatrical background, we were fully aware of WL’s strong reputation in the industry and how this has now expanded into the installations market. We wanted them to come on board and provide us with the exact technical support that could get the most out of the experience”.

   After initial talks with WL, Head of Business Development Lee Dennison and Technical Solutions Director Andy Hook visited EPIC’s London space to assess which equipment would be the most suitable. Lee states: “EPIC takes you through a variety of scenarios which take place in different rooms across their venue. Therefore it was vital we offered technical support that was perfectly suited to each one”. This included the main space which features a curved 180-degree custom built projection screen using 8 projectors that transport those in attendance onto the construction site. He adds: “The whole point of the training is to make it as realistic as possible. ATT had worked extremely hard to provide life-like, human content, in terms of both the writing and the actors, and we needed to ensure that the equipment complemented this”.

   Having recently been appointed as a d3 Certified Solutions Provider, WL drew on the power of d3 Technologies’ 4×4 pro servers to sit at the heart of the new technical system. The d3 platform allows multiple layers of content to be played and synchronised with multi-channel audio and lighting to create a truly immersive environment. WL used this to turn the 8 projectors and 11 speakers into one giant digital canvas and allow content to be moved around the fully immersive space to suit the scenario. This flexibility also means that the space can be used outside of the training scenarios for immersive presentations and interactive sessions, ensuring maximum usage of the space.

   The audio was supplied as dedicated audio pieces played back from the d3 server using Dante DVS into the Yamaha MRX7-D processor which was then distributed out to 11 discreet EM Acoustics loudspeakers hidden within the space. This created a high impact surround sound environment which further enhanced the realism of the scenario.

   The focus of EPIC is constantly changing as the Tideway construction project advances into different stages. Adam adds: “As the project moves forward, we have to tailor the content, performances and overall layout to match this. Therefore the equipment has to be adaptable as we constantly change”.

   In terms of lighting, WL provided a large data track system which was fitted around the space. This allows for complete flexibility as fixtures can be easily mounted and changed to suit the different scenarios. The main fixtures used were the ETC Irideon FPZs along with the SGM R-2 RGBWs. Both of these are extremely discreet and blend into the surrounding environment. The LED fixtures are also energy efficient and reduce the heat within the space.

   Another reason behind using the d3 platform was its offline features. Andy states: “The d3 platform allows for new training scenarios to be designed, workshopped, programmed and technically rehearsed offline and away from this space. This is particularly important as it allows the venue to be in constant use ensuring downtime costs are kept to an absolute minimum”.

   Another important aspect of the d3 platform was the Multi Transport feature, which allows users to have multiple timelines running simultaneously. Andy adds: “The Multi Transport feature has been unbelievably useful for this project. As EPIC uses several different areas of the building in which is located, this means that the pre-recorded content can be quickly triggered from a central server to suit activities in all zones.”

   The new phase of training started in March this year and over 95% of participants said they would be more confident in challenging poor health and safety practice as a result of the induction. Dermot adds: “The aim of this project was to ensure that those working on Tideway’s construction project received health and safety training that would make an impact and that they could then implement when they were out in the real world. Our feedback has shown that we’ve achieved this with the help of our in-house team, the group of creatives involved and, of course, WL for supplying such excellent equipment”.

   Andy adds: “ATT approached us with an idea of what they wanted to achieve and we provided the exact technical solutions to do just this. We were able to develop their initial idea by using the very latest technology to push the boundaries of what they previously thought was possible. EPIC is a great example of us drawing on technology from a range of markets to create an immersive and dynamic environment which gets the most out of the project, both in terms of user experience and the profitability of that space”.

   Photos courtesy of Tideway.

8. White Light Installs New Audio System at Royal Albert Hall’s North Circle Bar

   31 January 2017 10:52 Comments Off on White Light Installs New Audio System at Royal Albert Hall’s North Circle Bar

   The Royal Albert Hall is one of Europe’s most historic concert halls. It has housed over 150,000 live performances and has a capacity of up to 6,000. Alongside the main hall itself, the building boasts a series of several other unique spaces including the North Circle Bar. Whereas the Bar was traditionally used as a drinking area prior to performances in the main space, the venue wanted to transform it into a live music environment with a purposely designed audio system. They approached White Light to provide the complete technical solutions.

   The decision to renovate the North Circle Bar came as part of a wider development within the Royal Albert Hall. Steph Baldwin, Technical Project Manager at the Royal Albert Hall, comments: “We strive to ensure that all of our spaces are being used to their full potential. The North Circle Bar overlooks the Albert Memorial and is the perfect size for intimate performances. Working alongside the venue’s Project Manager Matt Mann, we wanted to have the capability to use the space as a live music environment on occasion – which was why we contacted WL”.

   WL’s Lee Dennison comments: “When we were approached by the venue, they gave us a very specific, clear brief: they wanted the room to have a discrete audio set-up with very simple controls. It was important that the audio could provide the very best support for any live performance yet not be overly complicated”.

   Lee made several visits to the Bar in order to fully assess the space and its requirements. This was then followed by a demonstration with some of the venue’s main stakeholders, in which Lee showcased some of the very latest audio equipment taken from WL’s inventory.

   Lee adds: “After much discussion between ourselves and the venue, we decided that a K-array system would fulfil the brief due its powerful amplification and clear acoustics”.

   The system used was a K-array KK102 Mark I. This is a passive speaker system comprised of sixteen 2” neodymium magnet transducers housed in an elegant and sturdy stainless steel chassis. The system provides specific vertical coverage to keep bounce and reflection to a minimum but greater horizontal dispersion to allow for the coverage required for patrons attending the bar and live events.  This is then supplemented by a K-array sub to provide a full range and extremely dynamic system for spoken word through to full live band amplification.

   Another one of the factors when deciding the system was the aesthetics. Lee comments: “We had to ensure that the installation was as discrete as possible. The K-array speakers have long, slim features meaning they are naturally unobtrusive and fit into any room. That said, to ensure that they completely blended into the Bar space, we wrapped them in acoustically transparent vinyl which matched the room’s colour scheme”.

   Alongside the K-array equipment, WL also drew on the Yamaha TF1 Mixer in order to control all of the live elements within the space coupled with a WiFi access point to allow for iPad operation. An installed Yamaha MRX7D acts as both system management and interface to allow for system use with the mixer as well as EVAC services connection. Shure QLXD radio microphones are also used within the space.

   WL installed the audio system over a three-week period and also oversaw the lighting installation within the space. The North Circle Bar is now being used as a live performance venue, with every act assured that they will receive the greatest audio support possible.

   Steph states: “What was great about working with WL was their knowledge and resources. We were able to tell them exactly what we required and they were able to offer a technical solution that would fulfil this”.

   Lee adds: “The North Circle Bar is a great example of us working closely with a venue and providing technical solutions that are tailored precisely to their exact needs. As recently seen with our work at The Hospital Club and Central Hall Westminster, we have the technology and expertise to help transform any space and relish the opportunity to do so”.

   Photos courtesy of Paul Karalius/Royal Albert Hall and Paul Karalius/Royal Albert Hall.

9. White Light Kicks Off Demo Days with K-array

   23 January 2017 09:31 Comments Off on White Light Kicks Off Demo Days with K-array

   

   The K-array open day allowed attendees immediate access to the latest equipment.

   In association with 2B Heard, White Light recently hosted a K-array Installation Open Day at its state-of-the-art studio facility Studio15. The Open Day allowed those in attendance to experience equipment from K-array’s product range and ask questions to industry experts. The day marked one of many that WL will be hosting over the next few months in partnership with some of the technical industry’s leading manufacturers.

   The K-array Installation Open Day took place on 10^th January and was aimed specifically at architects, designers, consultants and specialist installation companies. The products on display included the KZ12 Mini Line Array Speaker, KV50 Ultra Flat Line Speaker along with the KAN200 Anakonda to name but a few.

   Both Dave Wooster and Sam Nakivell from 2BHeard were also on hand to not only demonstrate the equipment but also answer any questions from those in attendance.

   

   The versatile studio space inside Studio15.

   Lee Dennison, WL’s Head of Business Development, comments: “The Open Day allowed those with a vested interested to come along and experience the latest K-array equipment; something they wouldn’t have had the chance to receive elsewhere. This proves invaluable when considering which product to draw on in real-world application”.

   The K-array Demo Day was the first of many that WL intends on hosting throughout the year. Lee adds: “We have strong relationships with some of the leading global audio, lighting and video manufacturers; many of which choose WL as their exclusive UK distributor. It made sense for us to hold an event which could showcase their latest products and allow those working in the industry to learn more about these”.

   Over the next few weeks, WL will host ETC and Tryka LED Ltd Open Days in February along with d3 & BlackTrax and Avolites & ROBE Open Days in March. More details will be announced soon on www.WhiteLight.Ltd.uk and on our Facebook and Twitter pages.

   

   A Shure Wireless Mastered Session held in Studio15.

   Lee states: “We want to use each Demo Day as an opportunity to really engage with those working in the industry and hear what they want and how we can work with the manufacturers to provide this. It’s an extremely friendly, relaxed atmosphere which is open to anyone”.

   All of the upcoming Demo Days will take place in WL’s Studio15. Having opened just over a year ago, the space has been in constant use, with the 120m² dedicated rehearsal space, editing suites and green rooms offering the complete package for any technical event.

   Lee comments: “As an organisation, having a facility such as Studio15 is an unbelievable asset. The studio space is the perfect environment in which to hold Demo Days. Not only are we immediately accessible from Central London, but have the resources on site to ensure each manufacturer has the exact support that they need to fully demonstrate their products.

   He adds: “Every Demo Day we’ve held so far has been greatly received and we hope this will continue as we work with other manufacturers throughout 2017”.

   Book tickets to ETC ColorSource® Day on the 7th of February 2017