STAGE TECHNOLOGY
to allow easy inspection and access to install
additional show-specific rigging equipment
through hinged pressed steel panels. The chain
hoists can be moved around the grid without
being obstructed by the wire ropes.
The Linbury Theatre has relied on Tait’s
automation platform since 1999. As part of the
2018 renovation, Tait updated the automation
products to meet the latest safety standards
including safety functions certified to SIL3.
Flights of fancy
Tait is also often called upon for its performer
flying solutions, which have been used by artists
including P!nk at the Billboard Music Awards,
Psy at Seoul’s World Cup Stadium and for
Cirque Du Soleil’s O. For the 91st Academy
Awards, aired in February 2019, Tait supplied a
performer flying rig activated by Tait Navigator,
enabling Keegan-Michael Key to drop in ‘Mary
Poppins-style’ to introduce Bette Midler. Tait
also provided 30 floating umbrellas for the
performance, some connected to Tait Nano
Winches and floated via Tait Navigator.
Hodgson emphasizes that in all cases,
successful partnerships are built on mutual
respect. “Customers appreciate our innovation,
ability to think outside the box, high-quality
products and services, cutting-edge technology
and our understanding of the full production
scope and how to integrate technology into their
show,” she says. “In turn, Tait appreciates clients’
honesty and fairness, collaborative attitude,
passion, diversity and the fact that they are
constantly pushing us creatively and technically.
We are always up for a challenge!”
Diverse markets
The diversity of clients means there is no
monotony in Hodgson’s day. “In a morning
I could be talking with a major cruise line about
performer flying for their next new ship, and in
the afternoon talking about Tait Navigator and
show control for a theme park or sports arena,”
she says. “Working with our clients is an
enjoyable experience because they are so
passionate about their projects and that energy
comes through in the working environment.
Collaboration is something we really appreciate.
We love clients that want to work closely with
us to make their project or show successful. And,
at the end of the day, having open and honest
communication with our clients leads to success
for both parties.” n
www.taittowers.com
SURF AND TURF
In terms of hot markets,
Gemma Guy Hodgson
says the cruise ship
industry is really
booming right now. “We
are really excited to be
partnering with some of
the major cruise lines in
designing their new
ships,” she says.
Another growing
market is sports arenas.
“People want arenas
to be flexible and
multi-use spaces – we
are seeing growing
demand for Tait to be
involved in the design
phase planning these
venues,” says Hodgson.
The company has also
seen strong demand for
its newest software, iQ
powered by Navigator.
“We have started doing
control upgrades for
venues and cruise ships
that would love the
power of Navigator with
a more intuitive user
interface,” says Hodgson.
AUDITORIA 2019 VOLUME ONE 95
/www.taittowers.com