COVID-19 Update: Lighting the Sky for Heroes

Two nights ago -- Sunday, March 22nd -- for half an hour, a number of Benelux lighting rental companies and individuals -- in fact, anyone with access to a light -- were invited to point it upwards and #LightTheSky in support of all the key workers, heroes, and heroines on the frontline of fighting the Coronavirus pandemic.

#LightTheSky was an idea originated by a Dutch rental company ... which then became a clarion call taken up by numerous entertainment rental companies, venues, broadcasters, and others, by people working in every segment across the whole Benelux Region ... with some extremely creative results ... as is the nature of our industry!

Heart shapes were a popular choice and many of the lighting schemes utilized Robe products -- MegaPointes and Pointes were a favorite for their brightness - however, other products and brands were also involved in this spontaneous and imaginative expression of solidarity. It highlighted gratitude for essential workers in the health service, transportation, law enforcement, supermarkets, education, and many more sectors who are keeping our countries going during the Coronavirus pandemic.

The photos here are a selection summitted by different Benelux rental companies ... all of whom also observed the strict rules now in place throughout Europe on social distancing and other safe working practices during the crisis.

Robe's CEO Josef Valchar comments, "It's heart-warming to see the entertainment technology community energized and engaging in actions like this and showing its support for everyone. We're all affected, and by standing strong together, we can help each other survive and deal with the huge challenges our incredible industry faces in the immediate and longer-term future."

Also, over the weekend, 183 radio stations across Europe and including the UK -- from Spain to Slovakia, Luxemburg to Latvia -- conducted a synched play-out of the classic 1963 hit "You'll Never Walk Alone" by Gerry & The Pacemakers.

Galvanizing actions like these are taking place all over the world while people embrace the spirit of community and help each other get through the pandemic.