Key Takeaways:
- The Albany Entertainment Centre (AEC) has upgraded its auditorium lighting to LED using over 100 Anolis luminaires.
- The new lighting system includes 14 x Anolis Ambiane XP56s, 48 x Ambiane SP16 ’tiltable’ fixtures, and 24 x Ambiane HP111s.
- The upgrade has improved the overall lighting quality and flexibility of the auditorium, making it a more dynamic and interesting space.
- The new system allows for color-changing LED options, which can be integrated into the stage lighting control for specific events.
- The AEC hosts a diverse range of productions and events, and the new lighting system has enhanced the overall visitor experience.
Introduction to the Albany Entertainment Centre
The Albany Entertainment Centre (AEC) is a contemporary performing arts and events venue located on the waterfront in Albany, Western Australia. The centre has recently undergone an upgrade to its auditorium lighting, replacing the existing incandescent sources with LED lighting. The new system utilizes over 100 Anolis luminaires, which were supplied by Jands, Anolis’ Australian distributor. The project was overseen by architectural specialist Eddie Galak, who designed the new lighting scheme in conjunction with AEC’s technical manager, Erik Loew.
The New Lighting System
The 618-seat Princess Royal Theatre now features a state-of-the-art lighting system, which includes 14 x Anolis Ambiane XP56s, 48 x Ambiane SP16 ’tiltable’ fixtures, and 24 x Ambiane HP111s. The XP56s are fitted with 20-degree reflectors and louvres, while the HP111s have 60-degree reflectors and yokes. The new system also includes 30 XP56 Ambiane Pendant remotes, which are rigged in AEC’s studio space for audience lighting. The lighting design was carefully planned to ensure that the new installation looked and felt like the old one, while being far more efficient.
The Upgrade Process
The upgrade process began pre-COVID, with the initial plan to install a white LED system for the seating area. However, as the cleaning lights also needed to be upgraded, it made sense to achieve this using the same system. The project then shifted to an RGBW system, which would allow for color-changing LED options. This would not only provide excellent whites but also enable the house lighting to be integrated into the stage lighting control for specific events. The color-changing option would also be offered to visiting productions to embellish or blend in with their stage lighting if required.
The Benefits of the New System
The new lighting system has improved the overall lighting quality and flexibility of the auditorium, making it a more dynamic and interesting space. The system allows for a range of lighting options, from subtle color changes to bold and vibrant effects. The color-changing LED option has also enabled the AEC to offer a unique and immersive experience for audiences. The new system has also reduced the time and physical impact of the lighting scheme, as the existing positions were re-used and combined with new ones created where needed.
The Installation Process
The installation process was completed by Shane Congram from Castlehow Electrical Services, who worked to plans and drawings supplied by Eddie and Jands. The installation was a complex process, requiring careful planning and execution to ensure that the new system met the requirements of the AEC. The team worked closely together to deliver the excellent results, which have been praised by everyone involved. The new system has been a huge success, and the AEC is now able to offer a vastly improved visitor experience.
The Importance of Good Service
Erik emphasized the importance of good service as part of the package, especially in a location like Albany, which is far away from anywhere. Jands has provided solid local and nationwide support, which has been essential in ensuring the success of the project. The company’s reputation and commitment to providing excellent service have been instrumental in delivering the high-quality results that the AEC required. The AEC is now able to offer a world-class experience to its visitors, thanks to the new lighting system and the support of Jands.
Conclusion
The Albany Entertainment Centre’s upgrade to LED lighting has been a huge success, improving the overall lighting quality and flexibility of the auditorium. The new system has enabled the AEC to offer a unique and immersive experience for audiences, and has enhanced the overall visitor experience. The project is a testament to the importance of good planning, execution, and service, and demonstrates the benefits of investing in high-quality lighting systems. The AEC is now a more dynamic and interesting space, and is well-equipped to host a diverse range of productions and events.
