LED strips for the Robbie Williams 2025 tour

The client's request

WI Creations in Heist-op-den-Berg came to us with a specific challenge: their stage had to be brought fully to life with a lighting installation that was not only visually impressive, but also practical and reliable for touring.

The requirements were clear but demanding. The lighting set had to be the absolute eye-catcher of every show, while being completely "tour-proof". This meant the system had to withstand the daily wear and tear of a tour, including constant transport, set-up and breakdown, and use at different venues in varying conditions.

A crucial requirement was speed and simplicity of installation. Stage hands, who often work under time pressure, had to be able to build the entire system within 30 minutes and take it down just as quickly. This time limit was non-negotiable, as any delay in the set-up has a direct impact on the schedule of the whole show.

Our technical solution

After a thorough analysis of the requirements, we opted for an innovative approach with pixel-controlled neon strips. This choice was based on several technical and practical considerations that matched the specific needs of this project perfectly.

The LED strips were fully embedded in a high-quality silicone sleeve. This protective layer not only gives a professional look, but also offers crucial protection against the mechanical stresses that are unavoidable during transport and daily use. The silicone sleeve protects the sensitive LED components against shocks, vibrations and any contact with other stage elements or transport equipment.

For this project, we installed well over 150 metres of LED lighting in total. This considerable length of strip was strategically distributed across the stage to achieve an even and impressive spread of light. Every metre was carefully positioned to create maximum visual impact without compromising the functionality of the stage.

The heart of the system consists of custom-built control boxes that we developed especially for this project. These boxes were fully integrated into the stage structure, so they are protected from damage yet remain accessible for maintenance and operation. Integrating them into the stage also means there are no loose cables or components that could slow down the set-up or pose safety risks.

Ease of use and practical execution

One of the biggest challenges was creating a system that local technicians could operate without extensive training or specialist knowledge. That is why we developed a comprehensive labelling system in which every connection, cable and component is clearly marked with intuitive codes and colours.

This approach was essential because TECside does not send its own technician on tour. The system therefore had to be completely self-explanatory for crews working with it for the first time. Thanks to the clear labelling and logical layout, local technicians can install and operate the system without any problems, regardless of their previous experience with similar systems.

The control software was also optimised for simplicity, with pre-programmed light shows and an intuitive interface that requires minimal training. This ensures every show has the same professional quality and visual impact, no matter who is running the technical side.

Result and impact

The end result exceeded WI Creations' expectations. The stage was truly transformed into a dynamic, visually spectacular environment that fitted their artistic vision perfectly. The pixel-controlled technology made it possible to create complex light patterns and effects that ran perfectly in sync with the music and the performance.

The practical benefits were just as important as the visual impact. The 30-minute set-up time was consistently met, often even beaten, which was crucial for the tight tour schedule. The robustness of the system meant there were no technical problems or failures during the entire tour, confirming the reliability of the solution.

This successful implementation shows how technical innovation and practical considerations can go hand in hand to create a solution that is both artistically impressive and operationally reliable.