Big Beat move to a new tune
Established in 1996 Big Beat Productions are Pietermaritzburg’s most technically diverse production company, specialising in the supply of audio-visual equipment and services for conferences, live streaming, sports events, audio and video recording, exhibitions, trades shows, graduation ceremonies, gala dinners, concerts, and other indoor productions. The company, founded and run by Kevin Liddell, grew out of an initial DJ company called Mega Music in the early 90s, but as the demand grew and corporate functions became a significant contribution to the company, Big Beat was founded.
Liddell has worked with some of the country’s most popular bands and ensembles, ranging from Prime Circle to the KZN Philharmonic Orchestra. The diversity of artists during their years as technical supplier to the Royal Show speaks for itself. Big Beat have formidable experience in large-scale public address systems, having provided full AV and broadcast content for the opening of the KZN Legislature over many years, amongst others. But it’s not all music that the company is well known for. Faced with the Covid pandemic and a shut down of conferencing and entertainment, Big Beat quickly pivoted to offer live streaming and hybrid events, and can facilitate immediate two-way audio-visual communication between remote guest speakers and attendees. Big Beat has also been responsible for bringing great sound to sporting events such as Comrades, Amashova and the Spar Ladies races.
Liddell is relocating to Australia in late 2023 which has led to a restructuring of the company. Richard Dobbin, who has collaborated with Big Beat over several years, will be taking over as technical manager, offering the same range of services as before, but with some new inclusions. Dobbin, who has been involved with theatrical productions throughout his entire career, and was part of the initial team that staged international shows at resorts such as Sun City and the Wild Coast Sun, brings a wealth of experience to the Big Beat team and intends to utilise these talents and contacts to increase their product offering to include live audio recording and mastering, and an increased focus on staged events.
The future is indeed bright for Big Beat, and they will continue to offer excellent service, superior sound and AV support to all of their customers. You can contact them on 033 394 4426 or 082 552 3227, or email richard@bigbeat.co.za