Robe Paintes the Suncoast Globe
- Details
The new fixtures are part of an ongoing upgrade programme that ensures the venue systems stay abreast of the latest and most appropriate production technologies to offer their clients and guests, and were delivered by Robe’s South African distributor, DWR.
At the centre of the drive to get the new kit was Thabo Ntsala, audio visual specialist / manager for Suncoast Casino, Hotels & Entertainment.
As head of the technical department in Durban, Thabo is responsible for the technical teams looking after all the audio and visual infrastructure in the complex, its ongoing technical requirements including managing and monitoring of the audio levels and content scheduling, as well as co-ordinating the stage lighting, sound and AV systems including the media matrix routing and integration and running of the evacuation system.
The new Robe kit was specified and installed as part of the venue’s rolling policy of re-shaping, re-hanging, and reprogramming the Dome’s lighting rig based on the various incoming production requirements and designs. “Versatility is always the key here,” stated Thabo.
He has been using Robe products for around 10 years and finds them “very reliable and always able to deliver those all-important WOW factors when needed.”
He adds that Robe is a brand that all designers are “familiar and feel comfortable with.”
The new Paintes and LEDWash 600+’s join the venue’s existing Robe 600E Spots and LEDWash 600s, and the entire outer facade - which is substantial - is architecturally lit with Anolis fixtures.
“Again, we love the adaptability of these lights which enable the colour of the building to be adjusted for special events, commemorations etc., for example on Valentine’s Day, the building is spectacularly lit up in red,” Thabo commented.
Thabo notes that as Suncoast is so well known as Durban’s premier entertainment destination, every part of the guest experience - including for visiting artists - must reflect these expectations. “Related to that, it’s critical that we use the best products on the market for the various different applications.”
He adds that it’s also important to be as sustainable as possible, and the use of LED luminaires is essential for reducing excessive heat and therefore the need for more air-conditioning in the venue, as well as generally adding more value to their customers and artists.
It was Duncan Riley and the DWR team who initially suggested Paintes would be a right luminaire for the Globe to replace their older spots, and once Thabo had seen a demo, he was delighted and happy to go with this suggestion.
