Here at TPiMEA, we’ve walked around more than our fair share of dusty warehouses over the years, and while it’s always a privilege to be allowed access to the innerworkings of any organisation, after a while, the novelty can wear thin. However, as soon as the invite came through for CTME’s CONNECTME24 event, there was no doubt that this would be an occasion well worth the trip. A multiday showcase of the latest tech presented by the highly skilled CTME team in the company’s brand-new Dubai facility, the event set the standard for the industry across the region.
From the moment we entered CTME’s new facility through the LED-clad doorway replete with smoke and lasers, we were treated to an immersive tour that demonstrated the impressive capabilities of each department, showing off some of the latest technology in the process. As well as providing the opportunity to wander freely around the impressive 85,000 sq ft space, the event was structured around six special activations that showcased the power of the technology at the CTME team’s disposal.
First up was a journey into the company’s immersive experience capabilities, with an interactive presentation from inside an LED room equipped with a Modulo Pi Kinetic system that created generative content. Hosted by Peter Herring, the presentation detailed some of the latest tools and techniques that CTME has deployed at a selection of events and installations across the globe.
Next came a demonstration of some of the capabilities of AI future technology, where guests were encouraged to download the Mixhalo app, which unlocked several immersive experiences including ultra-low-latency, AI-driven real-time multilingual translation directly to our smartphones. The demo explained how the technology can be utilised for dynamic environments such as conferences and lectures and taken to the next level when paired with cutting-edge keying technology and advanced facial recognition for automated camera tracking.
CTME’s audio department excelled itself with its interactive audio demonstration, which led attendees on a journey of sound through an auditory labyrinth, from cable to processors, mixing boards, and loudspeakers. The voice-guided interactive tour introduced a selection of the latest technology from the likes of d&b audiotechnik and L-Acoustics, including the reveal of the new L2, as well as DiGiCo, DirectOut, Shure, and many others.
That wasn’t all for the audio team, as for the first time in the GCC, the Holoplot X2 was on display and being demonstrated to full effect. Stepping inside a specially designed sonic precision showcase area, attendees were treated to a demo of the system’s immersive directional auditory capabilities and given the opportunity to learn more about the cutting-edge scientific principles, advanced software, and state-of-the-art hardware behind the system.
Next up was a glimpse into the future of event management, as CTME invited guests into the nerve centre of its technological innovation showcase, the control room. In another first for the region, the entire event was orchestrated via a groundbreaking Kairos 2110 data-driven system, which served as the hub that processed real-time data from across the venue, ensuring seamless coordination of each innovation.
Not to be outshone, CTME’s lighting department put on an impressive demonstration of its capabilities, with XL on LX – the big reveal of its massive recent lighting investment comprising everything from back end and control solutions to follow spot and moving heads, including the new Ayrton Kyalami.
The grand finale of the event, Cube of Light, displayed the combined capabilities of the entire CTME team. Utilising immersive audio, video and lighting programmed as a symphony of the latest AVL technology, the final activation was a masterclass in how to catch the attention in a world where audiences are increasingly discerning and demanding.
Reflecting on the landmark event, CTME’s Managing Director, Andy Reardon, was delighted with the turnout. “What an unbelievable two days of meeting clients, manufacturers, and competitors from across the Middle East, showcasing not only the latest advanced technology but also a brand-new space. We hope we wowed everyone who attended and raised the standard for AVL rental across the region,” he commented.
“While our primary focus is always towards our clients and delivering their visions to the highest standard, I also wanted to support the education of the next generation of industry professionals by hosting a day dedicated to students from the foremost UAE colleges and universities. Education is a subject close to my heart, so it was gratifying that CTME was able to support and inspire young people studying all aspects of media and the performing arts. The team and I really enjoyed sharing our knowledge and experience to a receptive and inquisitive audience of people that we hope one day will go on to pursue a career in our wonderful industry.
“We ended the busy week with a day dedicated to our wider CTME family and giving them opportunity to see what their other halves and parents do at work. It’s a true honour to have talented people working for this business and so it was fantastic to meet the team behind the talent, the unsung heroes of our lives – the families! Watching the partners and children of our team members going from bouncy castle to focusing cameras to light shows and popcorn was great fun and made for an unforgettable end to a great week of CONNECTME24. Thank you to everyone who made this incredible journey possible.”
Photos: CTME
