Re-launching the Live Events industry during lockdown

About four months ago, the Live Events industry came to a halt when social gatherings were banned following the restrictions that were brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. The entertainment industry was devastated and deeply affected to say the least.

Then about a month ago, Stage Effects, a leading technical rental company revived their studio show called Urban Sessions where they showcase a range of artists from Rock to Hip Hop and Jazz performers and have featured performances from The Parlotones, Shekhinah, Kwesta, and Prime Circle, to name just a few.

On Urban Sessions, they invite music lovers to stream exclusive live performances and enjoy unlimited viewing pleasure by experiencing their local favourite musicians in the comfort of their homes. And if you aren’t sold on what these sessions look and feel like, they entice your appetite for great music by allowing you to preview the artist’s performance on their YouTube channel that boasts over 3000 subscribers.

On Tuesday 7 July 2020, Phemelo Kabini (Marketing Manager at Electrosonic SA) invited Erik de Bruin (Managing Director from Stage Effects) to chat on Electrosonic Goes Live, about the ideas and history of the show. Erik heads Urban Sessions and shared his passion and excitement for breathing life into the live entertainment space during these difficult and trying times.

The Urban Sessions have been around for some time, and about a month ago they changed their stage setup to feature six Portman Lights P1 Retro Lamps, which transformed and created a retro-style and striking setup.

Watch the full interview with Erik and Phemelo and please keep calm, stay safe, and remember to Create, Connect and Engage.

Create your own beautiful and breath-taking show using the available range of Portman Lights by sending an email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call +27 (0)11 770 9800.