The exhibition distinguished itself through its professional look and relaxed atmosphere. Besides maintaining familiar links between peers, new partnerships were also forged. Innovations were liked and lectures were well-attended.
Enrico Daamen, chairman of the CUE Board comments, "The organising team of Ahoy Rotterdam has introduced innovative elements that had a positive impact on the exhibition. For example, CUE broadened its product range, which resulted in a new influx of visitors interested in the entire spectrum of stage technology. Valuable new contacts were made, partly due to the high level of visitors."
New at CUE2014 was the Innovation Gallery which displayed 24 posters of innovative applications for the entertainment industry and performing arts in the categories of image, sound, lighting and stage technology. Visitors were encouraged to 'Like' their favourite innovation with a sticker, and did so enthusiastically, until 5pm on Tuesday 14 January. The innovation with the most 'Likes' per category won the audience award for the best innovation of 2014. The winners were: Image: Controllux - MiniMe® Moving head RGBW LED spot (124 Likes); Sound: Audio Electronics Mattijsen BV - Solid State Logic - Live500 (97 Likes); Lighting: Podiumtechniek.nl - DMX Remote - A BEE (135 Likes); Stage technology: Levtec - The Gerriets Batten Clew (63 Likes).
The Dutch Association for Stage Technology (VPT), a partner of the exhibition, organised an extensive programme of lectures. In the three Domes on the exhibition floor, there was a constant flow of listeners. The lectures about From 3G to 4G and 5G and Scenography in lighting design were especially popular, as was the discussion about Acoustics and the future for performing arts venues.
At the end of the second day, the VPT organised a party to celebrate the profession. The industry came together in great numbers and enjoyed a buffet dinner, accompanied by the uplifting music played by a DJ. The prizes for the most "Likes" in the Innovation Gallery were awarded and Han Stakebrand and Louis Janssen received a Golden Krommer on this festive evening. This prize is awarded by the Dutch Association of Theatres and Concert Halls (VSCD) to theatre technicians who have been working in the theatre world for 40 years.
The next edition of CUE will take place from 18 to 20 January 2016 in Ahoy Rotterdam.
(Jim Evans)
