"Even we were surprised at how the show has taken off in just its second year," said black light managing director and show organizer Gavin Stewart. "It was a fantastically successful event and the feedback from all round has been extremely positive. Scotland and the north of England are hotbeds of the performing arts, from theatre and live music to military tattoos and interactive museums. So it's great to be able to provide a focal point for the production technology which serves such a diverse and productive market."
As well as showing a wide range of equipment, most of the exhibitors were also providing practical demonstrations. Le Maitre was providing regular pyrotechnic accompaniment, and the company's Steve Ramos says: "It's essential for us to see as many end users as possible. Scotland's Lighting Show gives me an opportunity to do exactly that. With black light being Scotland's leading lighting company, it means we are guaranteed a good number of visitors of excellent quality to boot. It is great to sit with the people at the thick end of this industry, to learn what we can do to help our product become friendlier to use. And I should not forget the great food, drink and hospitality!"
Keith Rogers of Zero 88 Lighting added: "We were delighted to exhibit at Scotland's Lighting Show again this year. black light continue their commitment to showcase our products and this was reflected in the quality and number of people who attended. The day provided a great opportunity to talk to users of our products and get their feedback in a friendly and social atmosphere. We were also able to take the opportunity to demonstrate the brand new Frog 2 console, unveiled at PLASA the previous week."
Another satisfied exhibitor was Tim Davies of Airstar UK, who commented: "We met a broad range of potential new customers who were genuinely interested in our products, the majority of whom had an application in mind for them. The Scottish market is all too easy to ignore when you have London on your doorstep - this is a mistake as there are plenty of opportunities for lighting throughout the year. The show was well organised, we were made very welcome and I look forward to next year's show."
Scotland's Lighting Show 2005 will take place on 23-24 September next year, with plans already in hand for it to develop further from this year's success.
(Lee Baldock)
