Show control is, according to one definition, the use of automation technology to link together and operate multiple entertainment control systems in a co-ordinated manner. But, as Ian McMurray finds out, the reality is rather more complex – and more interesting – than that
Out Board's TiMax technology was used for authentic imaging within the vocal reinforcement system for a production of Aidaat London's Royal Albert Hall
BEATLES FANS will know that, prior to achieving fame, the group spent some time – from August 1960 to December 1962 – playing Hamburg night clubs (notably the Indra and the Kaiserkeller) refining their skills. The Beatles were used to just standing, playing their music, but club owner Bruno Koschmider wanted more for his customers, and would come to the front of the stage and shout “Mach Schau! Mach Schau!” (“Put on a show!”). “Mach Schau!” subsequently became the title of a book, written by
24 January 2013
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Many show control companies see their mission as being to provide the infrastructure and support that enables the execution of the creative concept
Thomas Rehwagen and Thorsten Schmidt, about The Beatles’ time in Hamburg. Fast forward 50 years, and “putting on a show” has given rise to a small, but highly significant, segment of the AV industry. ‘Show control’, as it is widely known, is the
As complexity increases, so too does the focus on intuitive interfaces and ease of use to ensure that all the functionality can be simply leveraged
marriage of creativity and technology that is at the heart of many of the AV world’s most captivating achievements.
A GROWING MARKET “Wherever the professional AV sector is growing, you’ll
Connectivity in show control now extends beyond the controlled devices, allowing sophisticated interaction with marketing databases and websites
find a growing demand for reliable show control solutions,” smiles Hans Stucken, marketing and communications director at coolux. “Today,” says Alex Carru,
CEO of the North American arm of French show control
Show control technology development is driven both by what customers want and by educating customers about what’s possible.
company Medialon, “the show control market is divided into three main areas: theme parks and entertainment, museums, and live events. The theme park and museum markets are flourishing, with numerous projects in developing countries –