LED show, cold spark machines and stage effects

What are cold spark machines and how do they work?

A cold spark machine shoots out a fountain of fine glowing particles, with no flame or explosion. Unlike fireworks or a pyrotechnic fountain, the effect gives off no thick smoke, and the particles cool very quickly. That is why you see them in reception venues, TV studios and gala dinners. Each jet rises to around 2 metres and lasts about thirty seconds.

A few precautions are still needed: no drapes or balloons directly above, a clear perimeter around the units, and the agreement of the venue, which always sets its own safety rules. We check this before every event.

When should you use a stage effect?

What is an LED show?

An LED show is performed by artists with light-up costumes, props or sticks, who dance or juggle in a room plunged into darkness. It is the indoor, flameless version of the fire show: the same visual effect, with no fire safety constraints. The act lasts a few minutes, often to open the dancing or mark the move to dessert. It is priced on a quote basis depending on the number of artists.

What about fireworks?

A real outdoor fireworks display falls under different regulations: a licensed pyrotechnician, prior notification, a safety perimeter, and sometimes an outright ban in summer in Provence because of the fire risk. For a corporate party, cold spark machines and lighting effects often give a similar result, without these formalities. If fireworks are essential, we look into it case by case; the €50 booking fee covers insurance and permit applications.

How much do stage effects cost?

Cold spark machines cost €50 per unit, the haze machine €30, the dance floor lighting pack €200. To run the lighting live during the evening, a lighting operator can be booked at €50 per hour. The LED show is priced on a quote basis.