Clay Paky has announced the nominations for the 'Knights of Illumination' Lighting Design Awards that are to be awarded in association with the ALD and the STLD at the annual ABTT dinner in London on 11 June 2008. The awards are being supported by Clay Paky to recognise the UK's outstanding contribution to live performance and television. The awards are unique in honouring work across such a wide range of music, theatre, opera, dance and television.
On the personnel front, Steve Carson, general manager of Philips Lighting Controls - which includes Vari*Lite, Lightolier Controls, Entertainment Technology, and Strand Lighting - has announced the appointment of Tom Folsom as the general manager of the Strand Lighting division, worldwide. This includes the Strand Lighting operations in Cypress California as well as London and Hong Kong.
John and Helen Meyer's trophy cabinet now boasts yet more industry awards. The United States Institute for Theatre Technology (USITT) bestowed one of its highest honours, the 2008 Harold Burris-Meyer Distinguished Career in Sound Award, on the Meyer Sound founders at its annual conference in Houston. At the same event, The Pearson Theatre, Meyer Sound's resident theatre at its Berkeley headquarters, was also given an Architecture Merit Award.
And finally, Sir Terry Wogan said he may quit as the BBC's Eurovision commentator, as the UK entry sung by former X Factor finalist Andy Abraham finished in last place in Saturday's competition. Sir Terry cast doubt on his role after saying this year's results showed it was "no longer a music contest". Sir Terry, who has commentated on the competition since the 1970s, told BBC News: "I don't want to be presiding over yet another debacle."
(Jim Evans)
