Archive for 2025
Our Festival Fever campaign is all about celebrating the behind-the-scenes brilliance that fuels festival season. From flight cases and fixtures to the dedicated crew prepping for long nights on the road, we’re shining a light (pun intended) on the people who make it all happen.
In this edition, we caught up with Lucy Primiano, a lighting technician with a passion for the craft, a love for live events and a story that speaks to the heart of what this industry is all about.
From College to Concerts: Lucy’s Journey into Lighting
Like many of us, Lucy’s career path shifted unexpectedly during the pandemic.
“I got into the industry through college, during COVID-19,” she explains. “Everything was shut down and we got kicked off campus. We came back to do a few virtual productions, but I was losing interest — the world just felt upside down.”
Then came a moment that changed everything.
“Light Switch came through our college and did a drive-through immersive installation. It was the first time I saw that side of the industry up close — not just theatre, but the wider world of live events and entertainment.”
That immersive experience opened the door to training, mentorship and eventually, Lucy’s first tour — and she’s never looked back.
Lessons from the Road: Adaptability, Attitude and Adventure
Years into her career now, Lucy says the biggest lessons aren’t just technical — they’re about mindset.
“I’ve learnt to stay positive, to think on my feet and to troubleshoot under pressure. You’re given a spec sheet — great — but you can’t plan for every surprise. That’s part of what I love.”
From assembling lighting rigs to solving last-minute challenges, it’s clear Lucy thrives on versatility. And it’s not just the gear — it’s the people, the perspectives and the places the job takes her.
Advice for the Next Generation of Technicians
Lucy is passionate about sharing her journey with the next wave of lighting techs — especially those just finding their feet.
“Take everything in. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. I hesitated at first because I didn’t want to seem like I didn’t know what I was doing — but you’re there to learn. That’s the point.”
Her top tips?
- Observe everything.
- Ask questions — lots of them.
- Stay humble.
- Try different methods and find your own style.
- And above all, listen and learn from everyone around you.
A Career Highlight: Lighting for Zach Bryan
Lucy lights up (literally) when we ask about her proudest moment.
“Definitely working on Zach Bryan’s tour. I was with the camp for two years and it felt like family. The design featured these gorgeous festoon lights, which I know some people find tedious — but I loved them. They made it feel like his backyard. Authentic. Real.”
Not only did the tour allow her to work with Rob Sinclair’s stunning designs, but it marked Lucy’s first leap from arenas to stadium-scale productions — a huge milestone in any technician’s career.
Lighting Europe with Neg Earth Lights
Working with Neg Earth Lights was Lucy’s first time in Europe and she admits she felt a bit nervous.
“It was intimidating at first — new place, new culture, long flight! But everyone has been so kind. If I have a question, I know I can ask anyone. Even if it’s not the right person, they’ll help or point me in the right direction.”
It’s that teamwork — the “get it done, get it done right” mindset — that makes our crew special. Lucy’s experience echoes what many of our team members say: at Neg Earth Lights, we’re proud of the culture we’ve built — and the people who bring it to life.
During Festival Fever, we’re shining a light on the incredible people behind the scenes who help bring festivals and live events to life. In this edition, we caught up with Finley Alexander, a lighting technician whose journey from a summer theatre intern to working major arena tours is nothing short of inspiring.
From Summer Theatre to Stadium Tours
Finley’s story began in a small theatre near her grandparents’ house, where she started interning at just 14 years old.
“I worked in summer theatres throughout high school. That experience really inspired me to study theatre at college,” Finley shares.
Her interest in lighting and live events sparked naturally from that early exposure.
“Seeing how lighting transforms the audience’s experience — how it adds so much emotion and impact — that’s what pulled me into the world of live entertainment.”
Proud Moments on Tour
Among Finley’s many achievements, one moment stands out:
“I just finished Kelsea Ballerini’s Live on Tour, her first headlining arena tour. What made it really special was the fact that 30% of the crew were women. That felt like such a huge step forward in the industry — it was empowering to be part of it.”
Lessons from the Road
Working across different teams, cultures and locations has shaped Finley’s approach to life on the road:
“I’ve learnt that we all come from different walks of life, but we’re here to do the same job. Learning how to communicate and support each other is everything.”
And for anyone just starting out? Finley offers honest, heartfelt advice:
“Don’t be afraid to ask questions — even if it feels silly. You could spot something others have missed and that might save time and stress later. You learn something new every day.”
A Word on Work Culture
Since visiting Neg Earth, Finley’s felt right at home:
“It’s been such a welcoming environment. Everyone’s supportive and there’s a real team spirit.”
And perhaps most importantly:
“We’re in the live entertainment industry — people come to shows to have a great time. If you’re not enjoying your work, you lose sight of the whole point.”
At Neg Earth Lights, we’re proud to work with talented, passionate professionals like Finley.
At Neg Earth Lights, Festival Season is more than just a busy period — it’s a time where behind-the-scenes magic takes centre stage. As part of our Festival Fever campaign, we’re celebrating the brilliant people who power live events, giving our audience a closer look at the teamwork, expertise and passion driving our crew.
This week, we’re shining the spotlight on William Frostman (Frosty), Lighting Technician, Crew Chief and long-standing member of the Neg Earth family.
From Beer and Gigs to Global Tours
William’s journey into the live events industry began — quite literally — by accident. While in college, he started working with a band his roommate was part of, handling lighting in exchange for beer and ten dollars a night. That modest start ignited a passion, leading him to pursue a degree in lighting and take on roles at companies like Southern Thunder and Pete’s Lights and Upstaging in the US, before making his way to Neg Earth in the UK.
“I don’t wear a suit and tie or go to an office. Every day is something different, in a different part of the world. That’s what I love.”
Memorable Gigs, Timeless Values
With decades in the industry, William has a wealth of gigs to look back on — but what stands out most to him isn’t the scale of the shows, but the people behind them.
“It’s the ethos at places like Neg Earth and Upstaging. People respect each other and work together — that’s why I do what I do.”
For William, the magic of touring comes from good teamwork and a shared passion for putting on unforgettable experiences.
Lessons from the Road
William’s career spans a time of massive technological evolution in the industry — from analogue Parcans and Lekos to today’s sophisticated robotics and lighting networks.
“The technology has changed massively since the 1980s. Now we’re working with complex networking and robotics — but the core values remain.”
He believes in the importance of learning everything from the ground up. Whether you’re aiming to be a designer or programmer, understanding how things are set up, cabled and powered makes you better at any role you take on.
“You’ve got to trust yourself but never be too proud to ask questions. There’s a wealth of knowledge out there — don’t waste it.”
Why Neg Earth Lights Feels Like Home
Having worked across the globe, William says what sets Neg Earth apart is simple: the people.
“Neg Earth has always felt like home. Dave runs a great company — he looks after his people and that means a lot. I enjoy what I do and who I do it with.”
Festival Season, Powered by People
It’s stories like William’s that remind us what makes this industry so special. Behind every spotlight and stage is a team of professionals who bring events to life — with dedication, craft and a genuine love for what they do.
We are delighted to announce that Neg Earth Lights has joined the London Schools Engagement Programme, a fantastic initiative driven by the Power of Events, dedicated to inspiring and educating young people about the vibrant live events industry. This partnership reflects our passion for nurturing future talent and sharing our industry insights with the next generation.
Pip Ridgway, Managing Director says,
“Joining the London School programme to support 11-17-year-olds in gaining more knowledge of the live events industry fits perfectly with our commitment to empowering the next generation. It provides a valuable opportunity to equip young people with a better understanding of opportunities in this dynamic industry. We are excited to contribute to their development and help foster a future workforce.”
We look forward to recruiting our Neg Earth Ambassadors who will be visiting schools in London starting from September 2025.
We will provide an update soon!
Together, let’s empower young minds and create unforgettable experiences—both on and off the stage.
Click on this link to see how you can get involved:
Interview with Harry Smith
Imagine Dragons Stadium Tour 2025
Q: Harry, can you tell us about your role on the stadium tour with Imagine Dragons?
“As the crew chief, my main responsibility is to oversee the lighting operations and coordinate with the entire production team. I manage a team of eight talented professionals, each with their own roles, and ensure that everything runs smoothly across all the venues we visit.”
Q: What makes stadium tours different from arena shows?
“Stadium tours are uniquely exciting—they’re grand in scale and bring a different energy each day. However, they also come with distinct challenges. Weather is a huge factor; working outdoors means dealing with the elements, which can impact setup, safety, and motivation. In contrast, arena shows are typically held indoors, so the weather isn’t a concern. But stadiums require us to be more flexible and adaptable, especially since every show features a different stage design and layout.”
Q: I understand that the staging is provided locally for each show. How does that affect your work?
“It adds a layer of complexity. Since each venue supplies its own stage, we’re faced with different configurations every day. The lighting rig, in particular, changes each time—so I need to ensure my team can adapt quickly to new setups. Flexibility is key. We work closely with the design team, production, riggers, and stage crew to coordinate and execute these changes efficiently.”
Q: Can you tell us about the custom lighting solutions used on this tour?
“One of the most striking features of our setup is the large back walls of lights. To achieve this, Neg Earth has developed bespoke, custom-manufactured solutions. These are incredibly heavy and require meticulous planning and effort to install and ready for each show. Unlike an arena with a permanent roof structure, our stadium stages are temporary, which makes safety our top priority at every step.”
Q: What’s the most rewarding part of your role?
“Managing and motivating the team is what I find most fulfilling. On this tour, I oversee a diverse team working under sometimes challenging conditions—adverse weather, tight schedules, and complex setups. Seeing the team come together and execute a flawless show is incredibly satisfying. The crew is the backbone of the operation, and my job is to support and coordinate them effectively.”
Q: How does the lighting rig set up evolve over the course of the tour?
“At the start, we could get the rig up in about 8 hours and take it down in 4. By the end of the tour, we’d hope to improve this significantly, setting up in roughly 6 hours and bringing down in 3. This efficiency is a testament to the team’s experience and our continuous refinement of procedures.”
Q: With 20 stadiums on this tour, each very different, what has been a personal highlight?
“The final London show stands out as a highlight. The atmosphere there is electric—there’s nothing quite like a home crowd. It’s always a special moment to see everything come together in such an iconic setting.”
Q: What advice would you give to someone aspiring to be a crew chief in live events?
“Be adaptable and ready to think on your feet. Every venue, every show is different, so flexibility and strong communication are vital. Building a reliable team and fostering good relationships with all departments make the job not only smoother but more enjoyable. And remember, the success of the show really depends on your crew—support them, and the show will shine.”
Q: Any final thoughts?
“I did not imagine, when I started at my local 200-seat theatre fifteen years ago, that one day I would have the opportunity to collaborate on and lead projects of this scale. Each stage of my career has presented a new set of challenges, and I have developed both as an individual and a professional alongside them. It has been hugely rewarding and a privilege to work on these projects.”
Recently, Neg Earth Lights joined Be Wilder Education, which provides forest school education in West London for a fun & educational outdoor activity. Nestled in the heart of Vale Lane, West London, the Forest School provider supports the children on site at Holy Family Catholic school, West London.
A group of enthusiastic Year 5 pupils carried out a biodiversity study the forest that helped their understanding of the ecosystem but also provided a connection to nature.
Over the course of the academic year, each class at the school is allocated six sessions, each lasting two hours, allowing them to explore the great outdoors on a regular basis. This initiative has proven to be a transformative experience for the 450 children who use and have access to this on-site forest.
The pupils learned about different species of plants, insects, and animals, equipping them with the tools needed for their biodiversity study. Armed with clipboards and magnifying glasses, the children set off to observe and document their findings, creating a sense of curiosity and wonder about the natural world whilst understanding their role in safeguarding the planet.
The Benefits of Nature Connection
Be Wilder Education Emma Woods believes that regular interaction with nature has profound benefits for children’s physical and mental health. Engaging in physical activities outdoors helps develop motor skills, builds strength, and contributes to overall fitness—all essential for healthy childhood development.
Access to outdoor spaces like the Forest School is vital, especially in urban areas where green spaces can be limited. The initiative ensures that children from diverse backgrounds have the opportunity to engage with nature, promoting inclusivity and equity in outdoor education. It provides a safe and nurturing environment where they can explore, learn, and grow, helping to bridge the gap between urban life and the natural world.
Neg Earth was delighted to be part of the forest school activity and continues to support its partner with materials for the London forest school locations.
These include, wood, barrels, climbing rope and other upcycled materials.
“Thank you so much for the support and the abundance of resources, it really helps to enrich the provision. At the beginning of the year we made templates for bird boxes with wood off cuts that were donated, children built and painted the boxes and we installed them around the school forest. At the moment we have a pair of blue tits nesting in the box closest to our Basecamp and it is bringing so much joy to the children watching the busy pair darting in and out with materials for their nest.”
Emma Woods
Be Wilder Education
“We are so grateful to our friends at Neg Earth Lights who continue to support our wonderful Forest School by supplying materials that enhance the experiences and opportunities that we can offer our children. We feel very fortunate to benefit from a partnership with a company who seek to support a local school. Thank you Neg Earth!”
Mr Doherty
Headteacher, Holy Family Catholic Primary School
Rose Bruford College offers comprehensive undergraduate and postgraduate courses, focusing on various aspects of performing arts, including the BA (Hons) in Creative Lighting Control. This program is designed to equip students with the essential skills to become proficient lighting and video programmers, show control systems engineers, and technical managers for live events and theatre. With a curriculum that emphasizes practical experience and industry engagement, our partnership aimed to bridge the gap between theory and real-world application.
Neg Earth worked with an outstanding group of 7 students from Rose Bruford this year. They dedicated many hours to prepare the lighting for their end-of-year show and arrived on site in NW London with enthusiasm.
Sam Ridgway, Director Neg Earth Lights – We provided technical resource, project management, industry expertise and encouragement alongside the lighting equipment ,so the students could prepare for their CLC show.
The Neg Earth team were fortunate to attend the CLC event and were impressed with the lighting designs and their use of lighting techniques to deliver the show.
Sofia Alexiadou, Programme Director of Creative Lighting Control and Lighting Design:
“We are delighted that such an esteemed company has agreed to generously sponsor our flagship Creative Lighting Control event here at Rose Bruford College. The students have enjoyed collaborating with Neg Earth and our Industry Night has been a huge success. We are looking forward to future collaborations and we are over the moon that NEG EARTH invest wholeheartedly in student training”.
Neg Earth wish all the students continued success.
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