A Look Back: A Decade of Progress in Entertainment Lighting, International Business, and Visual Tech, Featuring ATL Lighting and Special Effects
Shining the Spotlight on ATL
Journey through the evolution of ATL Lighting and Effects in the ever-evolving landscape of entertainment lighting. From the vibrant boom in New Zealand during 1998-2008 to the economic downturn challenges, this tale is filled with pivotal moments, such as illuminating Dancing with the Stars.
Returning to Christchurch in 2014, the narrative takes a turn towards visual technologies, global collaborations with the legendary Walt Disney Imagineering, and groundbreaking projects like the Rome International Airport. The interview delves into ATL's commitment to innovation, showcasing their adaptability and forward-thinking approach. The man behind ATL labels himself as Visionary.
A Blaze of Lights
Kicking off our conversation, we wondered, "What were the key trends or changes in the entertainment lighting industry in New Zealand from 1998 to 2008?"
Alvyn shared, "The period from 1998 to 2008 marked a remarkable surge in the entertainment lighting industry within New Zealand, fuelled by an influx of clubs and bars seeking to amplify their offerings. The emergence of intelligent and programmable lighting was at the heart of this trend, as ATL provided bespoke lighting systems that suited the unique musical genres and decor of each establishment."
Dancing with the Stars: A Shining Opportunity
Wondering what the challenges and opportunities were when providing lighting for Dancing with the Stars during 2007-2008, we asked our website. Alvyn replied, "In 2006, I had the privilege of supplying premium Hog controllers and cutting-edge lighting systems to the esteemed company specializing in lighting and sound for Dancing with the Stars. This collaboration enabled my clients to unlock unprecedented creative possibilities on national television."
Setting Sail for New Horizons
Our website: What inspired your move to Perth in 2008, and how did it affect your business?
Alvyn: Economic challenges loomed large over the New Zealand entertainment industry as a global financial downturn unfolded in 2007-2008. With numerous shows getting cancelled, I made the tough decision to pursue a job opportunity in Perth, seizing the chance for greater stability in a fluctuating world.
Adapting Across Borders
Our website: How did the Australian entertainment industry differ from New Zealand, and how did you adapt your strategies?
Alvyn: My arrival in Perth coincided with an economic downturn, leading to delays in my new job. To stay afloat, I embarked on my own venture, selling entertainment lighting to engage with party hire companies and entertainment production companies. This period, while challenging, taught me invaluable lessons and laid the groundwork for my future success.
A Transformed Christchurch
Our website: Upon your return to Christchurch in 2014, what inspired the shift to visual technologies? Can you share a story from this period?
Alvyn: Arriving back in Christchurch in the midst of post-earthquake reconstruction efforts, I focused on promoting LED lighting solutions for both residential and industrial uses. Recognizing the need for cutting-edge visual technology to assist in revitalizing local businesses, I seized the opportunity to introduce new visual solutions that would redefine advertising in public spaces.
A significant breakthrough came when Singapore resort hotels expressed interest in our holographic projectors, paving the way for an extensive clientele across the globe.
Creative Synergy on a Global Stage
Our website: How did collaborations with Walt Disney Imagineering and international projects shape ATL Lighting and Effects?
Alvyn: Partnering with Walt Disney engineers in the US on transparent adhesive video panels introduced us to new, innovative technology that holds significant promise for a wide range of applications. With this groundbreaking technology now under testing, we look forward to witnessing its impact on the entertainment and commercial sectors.
Transforming Air Travel with the Rome Project
Our website: The Rome International Airport project with transparent adhesive video panels is unique. How did you conceive and execute it?
Alvyn: Following our successful collaboration with engineers from the Paris International Airport, we had the opportunity to work on the Rome International Airport's elevator facades. Over a year, our resellers in Italy expertly installed the glass walls of the elevators and created breathtaking video screens, transforming public spaces and opening up new opportunities for advertisers.
Dynamic Collaborations
Our website: How do collaborations with manufacturers and digital graphic companies contribute to ATL's commitment to innovation?
Alvyn: Collaborations with manufacturers and digital graphic companies allow us to access the latest technological advancements, expertise in various fields, and foster creativity, expanding our product range to reach new market segments and cement our position as a leader in innovation.
Navigating Global Logistics
Our website: Managing a diverse clientele from Times Square to the Middle East presents challenges. How do you handle logistics and international aspects of your business?
Alvyn: To tackle logistics challenges, we have established strong partnerships with experienced logistics companies and utilize advanced tracking technologies for a smooth and efficient delivery process. We prioritize legal compliance, maintain excellent customer service, and remain diligent in handling customs and import/export regulations.
- From the Inception of Visionary Ideas - Reflecting on the 1998 to 2008 evolution of the entertainment lighting industry in New Zealand, ATL provided bespoke intelligent and programmable lighting systems to clubs and bars, catering to unique musical genres and decor.
- Dancing with the Stars: A Shining Breakthrough - During the periods of 2006-2008, ATL supplied premium lighting and control equipment for Dancing with the Stars, unlocking unprecedented creative possibilities in national television.
- Setting Sail for a New Destiny - In response to economic challenges in the New Zealand entertainment industry during 2007-2008, Alvyn moved to Perth for greater stability and embarked on his own venture, supplying entertainment lighting to party hire companies and entertainment production companies.
- A Technological Rebirth in Christchurch - Upon returning to Christchurch in 2014 amidst post-earthquake reconstruction efforts, Alvyn promoted LED lighting solutions for both residential and industrial uses and focused on introducing new visual technologies to revitalize local businesses.
- Collaborating on the Global Stage - Strategic partnerships with businesses like Walt Disney Imagineering and international projects have allowed ATL to introduce groundbreaking technology, such as transparent adhesive video panels, and expand its product range to reach new market segments, becoming a leader in innovation.
