Over 100 industry leaders, influencers, and key figures from Australia and New Zealand gathered at the National Institute of Dramatic Art (NIDA) in Sydney for the official launch of “LSC: The New Home for Robe in ANZ.” This event marks a significant expansion for Czech Republic-based Robe lighting s.r.o., a renowned manufacturer of moving lights and LED technology, as it strengthens its presence in these crucial territories.
LSC Control Systems has appointed Darren McLanders as the Robe sales manager for ANZ, completing a robust team that now represents three leading brands: Robe moving lights, LSC power and distribution, and Avolites visual control. With stock readily available, the Australian and New Zealand markets are set to benefit from this strategic alignment.
Robe’s Strategic Reboot in ANZ
This launch event follows a strategic reboot of The Robe Group’s commercial activities across Australia and New Zealand, effective from July 1, 2025. The integration with LSC Control Systems and Avolites is expected to enhance Robe’s market presence significantly.
The event at NIDA was a vibrant mix of action, information, entertainment, and networking opportunities, offering attendees a unique technical exploration of Robe’s latest technologies. Attendees included lighting and visual designers, programmers, managers, engineers, technicians, and artists from various sectors of the entertainment technology industry.
Highlighting Robe’s Latest Technologies
Robe international product specialist Dave Whitehouse delivered a special presentation showcasing Robe’s T-series fixtures, specifically developed for the theatre and performing arts market, alongside other recent technological advancements.
The event also featured a performance by Dave McCormack & The Polaroids in the foyer, a space designated for mingling and socializing. Known for his role as Bandit Heeler in the award-winning animated series ‘Bluey,’ McCormack led the band through a set of eight songs, each illuminated by Robe products. The lighting design was crafted by Hamish Lee from Colourblind, with assistance from Alex McCoy, and utilized an Avolites D9 console.
Industry Insights and Future Prospects
Guests had the opportunity to go ‘backstage’ to explore Robe products and technology up close, with sneak peeks at upcoming innovations. Key LSC products, such as the UNITOUR rack powering the foyer rig and the new GenX Dim/Switch unit, were also on display.
The event was attended by Robe lighting s.r.o.’s CEO and founder, Josef Valchar, global sales director Michel Arntz, and Jens Poehlker, managing director of Robe Asia Pacific. Arntz emphasized the importance of the ANZ market:
“From the global perspective, this is a hugely significant territory with a lively production, performance, and arts scene and an existing healthy, strong rental sector. Robe has already gained a good reputation, and we see a lot of potential growth here. Acquiring LSC last year has now given us fantastic possibilities of increasing business and market share for Robe and all its brands.”
Michel and Josef expressed confidence in Darren McLanders, highlighting his enthusiasm, extensive contacts, and passion for the industry as key assets for driving Robe’s success in ANZ.
Looking Ahead
Darren McLanders shared his excitement about the launch, stating,
“It was great to see such a good turnout at NIDA and so much interest in Robe ANZ’s activities. There’s some hard work ahead for sure, but I am looking forward to all the challenges and rewards that will come with getting this market-leading brand the visibility and success it deserves.”
The event was supported by Robe rental partners including Harry The Hirer, Chameleon Touring Systems, Theatricks Productions, and Lux Imperium, alongside Robe and LSC house products installed at NIDA.
As Robe ANZ embarks on this new chapter, the industry watches closely, anticipating the impact of this strategic expansion on the broader entertainment technology landscape in Australia and New Zealand.
