One Day More!

So this week, as most of you will know, commemorates the anniversary of the first lockdown announcements signalling a start to what we now know as a Global crisis for our amazing industry. This has given me time, to once again, as I have on numerous occasions over the last twelve months - take a moment to reflect...

Despite being part of the entertainment technology industry for over 30 years (man and boy). I am still fascinated, and driven, by the passion which exudes from all those people I have had the good fortune to meet, share and do business with during that time. In spite of political bias, religious belief, gender, skin colour or any other internal or external outlook, (whether amplified or not) we all come together with the understanding that the SHOW MUST GO ON! But then suddenly...it couldn't!

I can only begin to imagine how devastating the last twelve months have been for many of the talented, intelligent, amazing and truly inspiring people who have had to find a new outlet for their creative and technical genius.

For me, life changed too, and suddenly instead of looking for my car in the airport or running down the platform trying to avoid missing the Eurostar. I had to adjust to remote management and motivational leadership by Zoom - surely you all attended that webinar in your joggers and formal shirt (optional tie) combo?

This really has been a strange time and the human instinct for survival has definitely been in full force. Personally I decided to take on some new challenges and to try to extend my support to others including becoming a trustee for a new local charity - The Wolfpack Project. They provide support to young people (16 - 35 years old) who struggle with loneliness. Mental health issues are ever more sensitive in these difficult times and what with the ever present social media world smothering us every day it seems like a very important and relevant topic.

So why I am sharing this, because I had no idea how simple and effective a small piece of my free time could be. I had often looked at the Trustee role as 'not for me', because surely you need a certain level of qualification or experience and it would take up too much time, etc. and its unpaid, voluntary work.

However the reality is in fact that there are in excess of 169,000 registered charities in England and Wales alone and 750,000 people helping to support them as trustees. So all you need is a heap of enthusiasm and a desire to make a difference. So why not take a look at your local region and see if there is anything that grabs your attention. After all - we all have skills, knowledge and experience that could be really useful.

Alternatively, if this really isn't for you, I would urge you to look at the We Make Events campaign and pledge your support by making a small donation or buying some cool merch! This is a great initiative supporting several charities relevant to our industry and the people who rely and work within it. Including BACKUP who we have supported as one of our charitable causes in the UK and never has their help being required more than today.

And so to my passion of the last 11 years in building a European platform for CHAUVET. We have been busy "in the shadows", like you all, preparing for the day when the red light changes to green and the fun begins again. Of course we have had to adapt and make decisions that have been tougher than usual as our business has been defined by the shape of the industry we support and love. We have continued throughout to keep our customers well supported in all regions whilst adhering to local regulations and guidelines. Thanks to you all for your faith and understanding in the difficult times.

Through the years, I have been blessed with an incredible team of dedicated, loyal and driven people across Europe who remain just as passionate about this industry and the brand they have helped to form and shape. Never before has their desire been greater to make a difference too. If you are reading - YKWYA and thanks for ALL YOU do!

So for them and we ALL (as the familiar title of this article from a favourite musical theatre piece alludes) can look forward with hope and optimism. As we emerge from shadows and start to adjust to the spotlight again. Here's to the future and being able to see our wonderful industry strive forward once again, singing at the top of its voice and illuminating the audience with the satisfying glow of having shared another special sensory experience - ONE DAY MORE!