"Over the past six years, the Knight Of Illumination Awards have become much coveted and respected amongst UK lighting professionals," says Glyn O'Donoghue from Ambersphere Solutions. "The prestigious nature of these awards are truly reflected by the high calibre of our generous sponsors this year."
For six years the KOI Awards has celebrated outstanding achievements in British lighting design in the sectors of TV, Theatre, and new for this year: Concert Touring and Events (previously titled 'Rock'). And this year it is even better than ever. In recognition of the huge creative impact video now has on show design KOI has launched a new category across all three of its sectors this year: Video Graphic Display (for TV), Video Electronic Content (for Concert Touring And Events) and Projection Design (for Theatre). In addition a new category, Live Events, has been introduced in the Concert Touring And Events section.
XL Video's managing director, Lee Spencer, comments, "We jumped at the chance to support the Knight Of Illumination Awards as it recognises the individuals that create the visual events that our industry is famous for. When spectacular events attract worldwide attention, it's important to give credit to the men and women behind-the-scenes who develop these highly creative ideas but might not always be recognised for their work."
Launched in February this year the process will culminate in a glittering ceremony at London ExCel's Platinum Suite at 18:30 on Sunday 6 October. And, due to popular requests, the event itself will kick off earlier than usual to allow more time for friends and colleagues to catch up and meet new people.
James Bawn, Chroma-Q's global brand Manager comments, "I believe the KOI Awards offer an important opportunity for the industry to celebrate those who design beyond the boundaries of current technology to raise the bar on what is possible. Chroma-Q lighting solutions are used by leading designers around the world. We are proud to support the KOI Awards, and in doing so, help to acknowledge the achievements of these masters omf their craft."
Michael Althaus, managing director at MA Lighting comments, "The KOI winners and nominees have proven time and again that imagination and innovation in design is more alive than ever. Based on constantly upcoming new product solutions, the technical limitations are being pushed further and further. MA is delighted to be part of this technical movement and thankful to all of those creative minds that are taking us with them on their journeys. Supporting KOI is one way to say a big thank you."
Robert Juliat comments, "We are extremely happy to be an active player in the KOI event because we feel it important that Robert Juliat supports our industry creatives. We like the idea - which has always been very close to RJ's heart - of fostering initiatives which aim to show how vibrant and alive our entertainment industry is, to showcase its professionalism and illustrate what a fantastic environment it is to work in."
Once more the ABTT, ET Now, Lighting & Sound International, Lighting & Sound America, PLASA, The Theatres Trust, and WiSE (Women in Stage Entertainment) will lend KOI their support.
"Last year, hundreds of top lighting professionals donned their finery and slipped on their dancing shoes to celebrate the outstanding creative achievements of some of the most talented lighting designers working on productions in the UK," says Pio Nahum, chief commercial officer for Clay Paky. "This year the KOI Awards has seen a phenomenal rise in the number of submissions, and I am delighted to announce that we will be showcasing an impressively high standard of creative ability from all sectors of lighti
