It was with shock and deep sadness that we heard of the loss of industry legend, Nuri Waheishi. Always a welcome face at Neg Earth Lights over decades supporting the industry, Nuri was a true one-off – always ready to help and to pull out all the stops for a show, he was full of kindness and humour. Nuri, it was an honour, we will miss you.
For the fourth edition of Employee Spotlight we focus on Gillian Rendulic, one of our Crew Coordinators for Neg Earth Lights.
Gillian began her journey at Neg 3 years ago after being convinced by a friend known to the team to apply for a Crew Coordinator role. We conducted a short interview with Gillian to find out more.
What is your role at Neg Earth Lights?
[Gillian] Crew Coordinator, I sort out all things crew from assigning technicians to tours, to finding new talent and making sure they have all the paperwork necessary.
What did you do for a job before working at Neg Earth?
[Gillian] I worked at a Live Music Agency as an agent assistant.
How did you first learn about Neg Earth?
[Gillian] I was looking for a role on the touring side of the industry and I saw Neg was recruiting. I didn’t know much about this side of the industry. A friend of mine worked with Neg and she convinced me to apply. The role was a perfect fit.
What is your favourite part about working for Neg Earth?
[Gillian] Everyday can bring new challenges and its all about problem solving. I love music, especially live music. Its so exciting being a small part of the most exciting shows in the world and working with like-minded people. We do some amazing stuff.
What 3 words best describe Neg Earth?
[Gillian] Moxie, Fun and Passionate.
How has Neg Earth helped you in your career development?
[Gillian] Neg has helped in all sorts of ways; we are always encouraged to learn and evolve. They’ve provided support through a variety of training, from courses which have helped me to apply my initiative and develop my problem solving, to the abundance of knowledge throughout the team (which they are always willing to share) about live events and what it takes to deliver them.
If you could switch your job with anyone else at Neg Earth, whose job would you want?
[Gillian] Anyone in the warehouse! They make things happen and have the technical skills I don’t possess.
What has been your favourite project at Neg Earth Lights?
[Gillian] That’s not hard for me. Rammstein, the stage and crew are mind blowing. It was even more incredible to see the show, it’s very special to me. The Rolling Stones started my love for music, so working on their productions is also a highlight and WWE Crown Jewel because of the sheer planning that goes into that event to make it happen.
If you had to eat one meal, every day for the rest of your life, what would it be?
[Gillian] Anything pasta related, or my mom’s apple pie – it’s amazing.
Would you rather be a tiny elephant or a giant hamster and why?
[Jasmine] Definitely a tiny elephant. Maybe it’s because I am from South Africa, they are just incredible animals.
Which cartoon character would you most like to switch lives with?
[Gillian] Batman from the original Batman series, or Naruto.
What is your favourite TV series?
[Gillian] At the moment, Ted Lasso, but X-Files for an all-time favourite.
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If you were an animal, what would it be?
[Gillian] My Dog Reaper, I know how spoilt he is.
Name a cause that is close to your heart.
[Gillian] Human Rights; we need to be more compassionate towards each other. Also, Music rights ownership.
What advice would you give your 10-year-old self?
[Gillian] To stay true to yourself.
What is your proudest moment at Neg Earth?
[Gillian] Pretty sure I signed an NDA for that.
What advice do you have for prospective Neg Earth candidates?
[Gillian] We work as a team and want to do the very best for our clients. We work hard, but it’s rewarding.
Lighting: NEG Earth Lights
Production & Lighting Design: Cassius Creative
Tour Director: Paddy Hocken
Production Manager: Joel Stanley
Lighting Director: Moth Lights
Video Content: Jamon Creative
Laser Programmer: Andrew Turner
Video: Video Design
Staging: All Access Staging
Lasers: ER Lasers
Photos: Dan Reid & Garry Jones
Holly Brightman, Moving Lights Technician at Neg Earth Lights, achieved a career milestone last month, taking on the responsibility of solo Lighting Technician for Gabriels’ gig at The Stone Nest. The lighting package, including customised network control, was supplied by Neg Earth Lights, with lighting design by Morgan Evans from Tim Routledge Lighting Design
Holly spoke of feeling daunted at first but, with support from the Neg Earth team, Morgan Evans, and venue management she thrived on the additional responsibility.
Holly explained the production’s equipment specification and the process of setting up: “The design itself was simple, yet effective, featuring a floor package of Martin Aura XBs, Ayrton Ghiblis and Portman P2s. Having prepped the system thoroughly at Neg Earth, I then travelled to the venue in the West End where I learnt that unloading a lorry in that part of London can be rather challenging!” Holly continues, “After loading the equipment into the venue with the assistance of local crew, set up went smoothly and it felt like a huge milestone for the evolution of my career at Neg Earth.’
Holly concludes, “I would really like to thank everyone that supported me and I’m excited to continue taking on new challenges to build on my skills!”
Lighting Designer: Morgan Evans
Lighting Technician: Holly Brightman
Production: 247 Productions
Production Manager: Andrew Thornton
Photography: Shaun Gordon
Stormzy and his #Merky Foundation charity recently held a Christmas party for Croydon residents with the aim to bring the community together. Neg Earth supported the #Merky Foundation by providing Martin MAC Aura XBs, Chroma Q Color One 100s, and Ayrton dominos with custom gobo. We also sent our highly skilled technicians to assist with the install and operation of the show.
Lighting programmer & operator: Robert Ogilvie
The Son et Luminère production provides a platform for third year lighting students of the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art to showcase their talents in lighting design every year.
Neg Earth Lights supplied an array of equipment free of charge for the production and welcomed RADA students to the warehouse. Neg Earth’s skilled technicians were on-hand during pre-production supporting the students preparing the abundance of equipment for the production including, Clay Paky Sharpys, Martin Mac Aura XB and GLP JDC-1s providing insight into the level of detail our teams go into for prep, we believe this level of support provides valuable industry experience for young industry professionals in the making.
Lighting Designers / Programmers: Sam Blakemore, Sammy Emmins and Alex Forey
Lighting Supplier: NEG Earth Lights
Production Electrician: Sam Blakemore
Assistant Production Electrician: Sam Marshall
Technical Manager: Rosa Watson
Head of Sound: Wilkie Morrison
Hog4 Training provided by: Dan Hardiman and ETC
Photo Credit: Alex Forey, Sam Blakemore and RADA
Introducing, Jasmine Williams, the focus of the third edition of Employee Spotlight. Learn about Jasmine and what makes her an integral part of the Neg Earth Lights team.
Starting her journey with Neg Earth 2 years ago after volunteering in lighting departments for festivals, Jasmine is now a Project Coordinator for the company. We conducted a short interview with Jasmine to find out more.
What is your role at Neg Earth Lights?
[Jasmine] Since starting in the projects office I’m now arranging dry and sub hires as well as supporting the team with interpreting technical drawings, and inputting equipment data as lists onto the system.
What did you do for a job before working at Neg Earth?
[Jasmine] Before Neg Earth, I was volunteering in the lighting departments of a few festivals and working in a smaller lighting warehouse.
How did you first learn about Neg Earth Lights?
[Jasmine] One of my peers at university joined as a CAD Technician and advised me to get work experience at Neg Earth, which I did, and I never left!
What is your favourite part about working for Neg Earth?
[Jasmine] The little relationships you make with people here, I feel like I am part of something big and exciting.
What 3 words best describe Neg Earth Lights?
[Jasmine] Ambitious, innovative, and exciting.
How has Neg Earth Helped you in career development?
[Jasmine] Neg has taught me about the whole process of an event which really helps to identify where I am at within a project and what I need to keep an eye out for. This has enabled me to push forward and after starting on the NELL Scheme, I am now working in the projects office where I feel positively challenged and invested in my career.
If you could switch your job with anyone else at Neg Earth, whose job would you want?
[Jasmine] Good question! I would like to try life as a CAD Technician if it meant swapping came with all that knowledge too!
What has been your favourite project at Neg Earth Lights?
[Jasmine] It was before I joined, but I am a huge fan of Beyoncé and Neg Earth supplied the lights for her tour. I haven’t been involved in too many projects due to Covid, but I hope I can one day work on Beyoncé’s lighting…
If you had to eat one meal, every day for the rest of your life, what would it be?
[Jasmine] Curry goat or spaghetti bolognaise, I can’t choose!
Would you rather be a tiny elephant or a giant hamster and why?
[Jasmine] A tiny elephant because that’s much cuter!
Which cartoon character would you most like to switch lives with?
[Jasmine] Moana, what a location!
What is your favourite TV series?
[Jasmine] Misfits
If you were an animal, what would it be?
[Jasmine] A cat.
Name a cause that is close to your heart.
[Jasmine] Black Lives Matter and the eradication of systemic racism (huge mission I know).
What advice would you give your 10-year-old self?
[Jasmine] You belong in every space you choose to enter.
What is your proudest moment at Neg Earth?
[Jasmine] Working on Coldplay’s Graham Norton appearance, it felt current and creative, plus it felt great to contribute to the performance of such a well known and loved band.
What advice do you have for prospective Neg Earth candidates?
[Jasmine] Be yourself, be honest and make the most of every bit of knowledge Neg Earth offers (don’t forget to take notes because it’s a hell of a lot).
Lighting Designer Oli Metcalfe created a Christmas wonderland around the world with lighting fixtures supplied by Neg Earth Lights. The substantial amount of kit included the likes of 254 Ayrton Perseos, 50 Ayrton Dominos, 130 GLP JDC-1 Strobes, 450 metres of Martin VDO Sceptron and our new arrivals feature; 190 SGM Q8 Strobes.
The experience allows visitors to drive their own car on the world famous Silverstone circuit, albeit without a need for speed and at a steady 5mph to enjoy all of the lighting spectacles.
Lighting Designer: Oli Metcalfe
Lighting supplier: NEG Earth Lights
Meet Dan Skinner, the focus of the second edition of Employee Spotlight. Learn about Dan and what makes him an integral part of the Neg Earth Lights team.
Dan Skinner has been working for Neg Earth for 9 years, he started his journey with the company as a driver, spent time as a supervisor and has now been a Deputy Warehouse Manager for the past 3 years, we conducted a short interview with Dan to find out more.
What is your role at Neg Earth Lights?
[Dan] As Deputy Warehouse Manager it’s my job to make sure every show, event and tour has the equipment it needs, and that it all comes back!
What did you do for a job before working at Neg Earth?
[Dan] Most of my working life has been spent behind the wheel of a truck delivering and collecting everything from oil rig machinery to baby food across the UK and Europe.
How did you first learn about Neg Earth Lights?
[Dan] I was aware of the company through working as an events truck driver. I saw they were looking for a driver, so I applied, and I have been here ever since.
What is your favourite part about working for Neg Earth?
[Dan] The unpredictability, if you think your day is going to go as planned, think again.
What 3 words best describe Neg Earth Lights?
[Dan] Rewarding, Challenging, Fun.
How has Neg Earth Helped you in career development?
[Dan] Neg have given me training in several areas including event management, budgeting, negotiating – the list goes on! The most important part to me is that I’m encouraged to use it all.
If you could switch your job with anyone else at Neg Earth, whose job would you want?
[Dan] My manager Steve, because then I’d have me working for me and that’s great right?
What has been your favourite project at Neg Earth Lights?
[Dan] It’s always a great feeling to be part of a project from the start and then watching the final flight case roll onto the truck after weeks of prep work. Seeing content on social media of the production makes it even better. Of all the artists we’ve supplied, Iron Maiden mean the most to me, getting to sit behind Nicko McBrain’s drum kit in Paris was the highlight.
If you had to eat one meal, every day for the rest of your life, what would it be?
[Dan] Fish and chips on a boat, just off the French Riviera.
Would you rather be a tiny elephant or a giant hamster and why?
[Dan] A tiny elephant, I could live with all my elephant family and friends then at night go play with the other little animals without scaring them.
Which cartoon character would you most like to switch lives with?
[Dan] Fred from Scooby Doo because he went around hunting ghosts and drove a cool van.
What is your favourite TV series?
[Dan] Anything with cars in; Scooby Doo, The A Team, Knight Rider.
If you were an animal, what would it be?
[Dan] I want to be a tiny elephant.
Name a cause that is close to your heart.
[Dan] Anything that encourages people to talk about their issues. There’s nothing that can’t be solved by talking.
What advice would you give your 10-year-old self?
[Dan] Stop pretending to be a tiny elephant and go hunt some ghosts.
What is your proudest moment at Neg Earth?
[Dan] A few years ago, I had to deliver an emergency replacement follow spot on a Saturday evening to Manchester Arena for Alfie Boe. As I got there, the intro music had started, and they had to delay his entrance to the stage as we lifted the light up. The crew did it just in time and as I walked back down the steps he said, ‘cheers mate.’ That was nice.
What advice do you have for prospective Neg Earth candidates?
[Dan] Come with an open mind and prepare for no two days to be the same. Don’t hesitate to get stuck into your job, your input will be rewarded.
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