The brand-new BNZ Theatre in Hamilton, New Zealand, is a purpose-built, state-of-the-art, multi-purpose venue dedicated to the performing arts. Its 1,300-seat auditorium, featuring wraparound balconies and a flexible stage configuration, hosts rock, pop, and rap concerts, musicals, ballet, opera, and civic events.
Formerly known as the Waikato Regional Theatre, the venue was renamed following a five-year naming rights partnership with the Bank of New Zealand (BNZ), in collaboration with Live Nation New Zealand.
ACLX, a leading stage equipment provider in the Waikato region, was appointed to deliver technical consultancy and tailored solutions for this versatile space. Its Managing Director, Aaron Chesham, quickly recommended Robert Juliat followspots, proposing the new Tristan model as the optimal LED solution for the venue.
Launched in 2024, the Tristan followspot delivers output equivalent to traditional 1800W MSR lamp fixtures, while maintaining a more compact form factor than a 1200W unit. Featuring an 825W cold white LED engine and a 7°–14.5° zoom range, it proved perfectly suited to the throw distance required.
“The two Tristan units will be more beneficial for them in the long term,” commented Aaron. “A sharp, precise beam in a compact format perfectly meets their needs. They can also easily add frost to achieve a soft, aesthetically pleasing edge. The Tristan’s CTO filter is excellent for theatre. I’ve used many followspots where the CTO wasn’t quite right, but these provide a warm tone very close to tungsten.”
Aaron also noted that the first operators quickly and easily mastered the Tristan’s features. “Dimmer and zoom control, along with the smooth pan and tilt movement, allow one-handed operation for full control of beam intensity and size,” he explained. “The motorised iris is a standout feature, offering scale adjustment and direct control from the console.”
TEEKS was the first major artist to perform at the public opening on January 23, followed by New Zealand legends Dave Dobbyn and Bic Runga, as well as international artist Sophie Ellis-Bextor.
Robert Juliat is distributed exclusively in Australia and New Zealand by Show Technology: www.showtech.com.au
For more information on Robert Juliat Tristan and its full range of lighting solutions, visit www.robertjuliat.com
