Events tech and innovation
Curating events for all
AVisual Productions
The events industry is witnessing a shift in events planning trends as more organisers prioritise diversity, equity, accessibility and inclusivity. This focus is not just about
Daniel Lourenco, director of innovation at Encore Event Technologies, says the game has changed for event organisers on a lighting front. “They want to create impact for their event, as opposed to just a traditional light in the ceiling that’s moving around,” he says. “We’re seeing a lot more effects lighting.” Lourenco points to EK Lighting’s DiamondBacks as a game changer. “They give great intensity, effects and strobe lighting,” he says. “It’s fantastic. When you program together with time code, with audio and lighting, it gives an immersive experience.” Pre-programmed light shows are becoming a desirable event feature. “We’ve got guys and girls in our business who spend a bit of time doing pre-programming, and clients reap the rewards because the end result is sensational,” says Lourenco. “Who doesn’t love going to a concert where you see the LED screen, the lights and audio all sync together in time code? It gives you goosebumps.” On the visual front, all roads lead to LED. “I know everyone’s probably sick of hearing it, but there’s still a big shift to LED,” says Lourenco. “LED Panasonic has announced it is selling its projector side of the business, which is huge news globally. It knows projection is being phased out of the industry, and we’re seeing companies such as Sony, Panasonic, LG and Samsung all coming out with LED modular products.” LED tech has also been embraced at Marriott International’s Fiji resorts. “Recently, we installed an 11-metre LED wall at Denarau Island Convention Centre, and it is now serving as the room’s centrepiece,” says Nair. “This innovation enables our clients to create ambient, eye-catching presentation slides, videos and banners for their special events without limitation.” → 32 Spice Spring 2024
compliance; it’s about creating events that are welcoming and engaging for everyone, regardless of their physical abilities, sensory needs or cultural backgrounds. To accommodate attendees and speakers with mobility challenges, wheelchair ramps and other physical accessibility features are essential. For people who can’t attend in person, web streaming provides an inclusive option, ensuring an event reaches a broader audience. Hearing loops and AI-generated closed captioning are becoming standard to support individuals with hearing impairments. These solutions enhance the event experience, making it more inclusive for everyone. Additionally, offering Auslan interpreters ensures the deaf community is engaged and informed. Inclusivity extends to the stage, where microphones can be matched to presenters’ skin tones, fostering a sense of representation and respect. Incorporating a Welcome to Country from the local Aboriginal Land Council not only acknowledges the traditional custodians of the land but enriches the event with cultural significance and respect. For the neurodiverse community, creating low sensory experiences is crucial. This can include dedicated spaces with soft lighting, noise control and comfortable furniture, allowing attendees to take breaks and avoid overstimulation. These solutions are part of a broader trend where event organisers strive to create spaces that respect and celebrate diversity. “AV plays an important role in fostering an inclusive environment at events,” says Nigel Mintern, managing director at audio-visual production company for events AV1 (pictured, above). “As part of AV1’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion strategy, we are focused on bringing solutions to market to ensure we can create engaging experiences for all.” At AV1’s recent KALEIDOSCOPE event, the Australian-owned company showcased trends for the future of events as outlined in the recent ICC Sydney and McCrindle report, “RESPECT: Shaping Events for Success”, which featured inclusive solutions such as AI-generated live closed captioning and a low-sensory space.