If all dogs were to go to heaven, then guide dogs would be the gatekeepers. These are the saints of the canine world, a breed who literally walk the extra mile and who have become rays of light to many living in the dark.
Edith Venter, from Edith Venter Promotions, played an enormous role in once again raising funds for the South African Guide Dog Association. The event, titled “Carnival in Venice”, suitably hosted at the Italian styled Montecasino, in the Montecasino Ballroom, received compliments and tribute for the technical contribution that dazzled.
Mike Jones from MJ Event Gear was called in by Lynn Baker from Montecasino Corporate Events to ask if he could assist with the technical aspects of the show. “I feel we should give something back and for a good cause like this, I was game from the word go,” explained Mike. “The SA Guide Dog Association basically gets sponsorship on puppies which are trained and then given to blind people. A dog to a blind person is their eyes, as well as a companion for life.”
Once MJ Event Gear was in the picture, they went full out to not only give the best of themselves but also the best equipment they had to offer. They used the Robe StageQube 324 (24 pieces), 4 Robe DigitalSpots, 8 MediaSpinners with 8 Plasma Screens, 8 MAC 2000 Washes, 12 MAC 250 Washes and 10 MAC 250 Entours, 10 Source 4 Profiles, 2 Led Vision effects curtains, a JBL PA system, 2 Barco G5 Projectors, dimmers and a whole Hogg 2 with wing upfront.
In essence, Maxedia was used on the wall, Archaos on the curtains, and images for the DigitalSpots were all pre loaded – there were two camera shoots. Euro truss with CM motors were utilized for trussing.
When asked his opinion on the StageQube 324, supplied by Mark Gaylard from MGG, Mike had this to say: “Mark was really helpful with this regard and was only to keen to come to the party… what a great guy. The wall really added to the overall evening and we were blown away with the effects running through it.”
While the StageQube set the scene, the MediaSpinners were staggered on four diagonal trusses and the rotating plasmas displayed sponsors and graphics, causing much fascination and intrigue by the client. But for Mike, the DigitalSpots were unquestionably the highlight. “The client gave us the sponsors’ logos, and Johnny from our team had them floating around the room in less than an hour. We also utilised them for graphics and images all over the room.”
The final result was the best looking occasion SAGA had ever hosted. Wrote Edith Venter, “What can I say – the raves I am getting regarding the effects / lighting / etc are pouring in. You and your team outdid yourselves – thank you so much for the generosity. It is only with people like you that we are able to raise the money we do for charities.”
Take a few minutes to visit www.guidedog.org.za , it’s a real eye opener.
