In the world of event production, innovation and adaptability are key. And that's exactly what we witnessed at the Telstra Leadership Conference, where Australian technical experts, Harry the hirer Productions, showcased their new Robe iFORTES moving lights. With an ambitious lighting design by Oliver Pool, the iFORTES proved their worth in a dynamic and flexible production setup.
A Transformative Lighting Experience
The conference, held at the Grand Pavilion of the Melbourne Showgrounds, required a lighting scheme that could adapt to multiple spaces and purposes. From a large plenary area accommodating 3,000 people to a vibrant cocktail party space with live music, the iFORTES were deployed on 11 main trusses to create a versatile lighting environment.
What makes this particularly fascinating is the way the iFORTES were used to transform the space. During the day, they provided general lighting and key lighting for presenters, while in the evening, they added mood and atmosphere to the lounge areas and outdoor spaces. The fixtures' flexibility allowed for a seamless transition between different event segments, creating a cohesive and immersive experience for attendees.
The Power of Adaptability
Harry the hirer Productions' recent investment in the iFORTES showcases their commitment to staying at the forefront of event technology. These fixtures, part of a larger inventory, are designed to travel between their Melbourne headquarters and busy branches in Sydney and Brisbane, catering to a range of events and productions.
For the Telstra event, the iFORTES were a perfect fit. Their adaptability allowed them to be used for general lighting, presenter key lighting, gobo work on roof skins, and mood-building in lounge areas. This versatility is a game-changer for event producers, as it reduces the need for multiple specialized fixtures and simplifies the overall production setup.
A Designer's Perspective
LD Oliver, who also served as the senior lighting technician for the event, was thrilled to incorporate the iFORTES into his design. The fixtures' intensity and adaptability were exactly what he needed to cover the large distances and create a visually appealing show, especially given the challenge of working with daylight conditions.
"The iFORTES gave me a wide range of options," Oliver explained. "From full stage coverage to facial lighting, they provided additional light to bounce around the venue, ensuring a full experience for delegates beyond just the onstage action."
Oliver's imaginative and practical design, created two months ahead of the show, relied on the iFORTES as its backbone. He was particularly impressed with the zoom feature, which allowed him to project gobos and texturing onto the tented roof, cutting through daylight and haze to create a unique visual effect.
A Hybrid Lighting Approach
The Telstra event demanded a hybrid lighting approach, and Oliver rose to the challenge. He maximized the effects and speed of 40 Robe MegaPointes, rigged on the main room trusses and used in conjunction with the iFORTES. The two fixtures worked harmoniously together, creating a dynamic and visually stunning environment.
One of the standout moments was the lighting of 'Phonehenge,' a series of large scenic monoliths in the lounge and meeting area. Using the zoom and shutters of the iFORTES, Oliver was able to light the set pieces with precision, achieving a fantastic level of consistency and complementarity from different angles and distances.
Operator's Take
Adam Leelasorn, a regular freelancer and first-time iFORTES user, appreciated the fixtures' power and versatility. He utilized them for spot lighting onstage and for break-up effects during the plenary, as well as for fluid and captivating ceiling projections in Telstra's corporate colors during the party segment.
"The iFORTES are fast and have smooth transitions between gobos and colors," Adam noted. "They work exceptionally well alongside the MegaPointes, providing a creative and reliable lighting solution."
A Brilliant Overall Performance
From a project perspective, Brad Johnson, Harry the hirer's production and site manager, highlighted the iFORTES' brilliance in multiple lighting tasks. "They are light, versatile, and great all-round workhorse fixtures," he said. "Ideal for our work in lighting conventions, expos, and events, as well as for touring artists and concerts."
The Telstra Leadership Conference is a testament to the power of innovative lighting technology and the expertise of event production specialists. The iFORTES, with their adaptability and performance, played a crucial role in creating a successful and memorable event. As we continue to push the boundaries of event production, fixtures like the iFORTES will undoubtedly shape the future of the industry.
