September 5, 2025 • 8 mins
Chris and Lacy dive into the legacy and evolution of Delicate Productions—spotlighting its groundbreaking work, recent partnership with the Live Events network, and its ongoing influence on live event technology.
Listen for behind-the-scenes stories, historic client highlights, and what makes this powerhouse team stand apart in the modern production landscape.
Chris and Lacy also welcome Delicate Productions as Geezers Of Gear Podcasts newest sponsor.
#Podcast #DelicateProductions #Sponsor #FutureTech #AI #AIPodcast
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Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
(00:19):
All right, welcome back to Geezers of Gear Future Tech
Chris here, and I'm joined, as always by Lacey.
Now today's a special one. We're pulling back the curtain
on delicate productions, and honestly, it is one heck of a
legacy, isn't it Lacey? Absolutely, Chris.
And before we dive in, quick shout out.
Geezers of Gear are proud to officially announce Delicate
(00:41):
Productions as their newest podcast sponsor.
Geezers of Gear host Marcel Fairbairn and podcast producer
Sarah Burnie would like to say thank you to Chris Smother,
Smythe, Stephen Vitale and JodieDoggie for their support.
I mean, could that be a more perfect fit?
It's like peanut butter and jam.Or as we say in Britain, maybe
(01:01):
scones and jam. Anyway, legend has it delicates
founder Chris Smoother Smythe had just about the wildest path
into this industry you could dream of.
Left school, joined the RAF, somehow wound up working for Pan
Am. Then BAM makes a leap to become
a roadie for Flash with 0 experience.
That story blows my mind every time.
(01:24):
Didn't he just kind of ask what if it was me and basically
hopped on a flight? No real plan.
Exactly. Straight into it.
First gig at Fairleigh DickinsonUniversity.
Knew nothing, just absolute willingness to learn.
And that started a journey through bands like Genesis, The
Clash, Supertramp. Bit of trivia?
The company's name, Delicate Productions, actually nods to
(01:47):
Supertramp's Delicate Music. That's cool, didn't know that
detail. What always stood out to me
though is the culture. I remember my first delicate
gig, NASCAR Clash at the Coliseum.
It was a sea of cables and trusses, sure, but honestly, the
crew's energy electrifying, everyone, just flying, grinning,
getting things done, It made a huge impact on me.
(02:10):
There's that if you love what you do, success will follow
mantra with smoother, right? And I think for anyone coming up
in this field, it's a bit of a template.
It's not only about technical brilliance, but that sense of
camaraderie, learning from the best, all that passion wrapped
up in live event madness. Yeah, and Delicate's done it
all. Audio, lighting, video, total
(02:32):
package from that first gig withThe Clash to what they've become
today. It's wild.
But that's kind of your story too, isn't it, Chris?
Well, not quite as rock'n'roll as smoother, though I've carried
my share of flight cases in the rain, but you're spot on.
It's about loving every minute, even when it's chaos.
So Speaking of total package, delicate really is a one stop
(02:53):
shop right? Audio, lighting, video rigging,
production management, production design?
What am I missing? That's about it.
And it's not just covering the bases.
They do it at the highest level.I mean look at the projects.
Music Cares, the quail, bottle Rock, NASCAR, even the mocha art
(03:13):
plus film gala. Those aren't run-of-the-mill
events. Those are like hold my beer
productions. I get tired just saying that
list. But Chris, something else that
stands out. In earlier decades, live event
production was honestly the WildWest, right?
Oh, absolutely. In the 70s, artists, the band,
everyone ran the show, crew, management.
(03:35):
You kind of just muddled throughthe 80s.
Suddenly management steps in, cracks the whip.
By the 90's, the accountants show up.
And now, let's be honest, lawyers have built offices in
the truck pack. But it's true, we've lost a bit
of that dangerous seat of your pants innovation At the same
time we've gained safety accountability.
(03:56):
It's much better for everyone's health and sanity, if maybe a
bit less fun on paperwork. And you still get those behind
the scenes mishaps though. Wasn't there that story about
the Dire Straits Brothers in Arms tour?
Oh yeah, that was a classic. I remember a lighting hiccup mid
show, frantically swapping fusesand connectors.
But what's cool? Charles Herrington, who ran
(04:18):
Lighting back then, is now over at Zenith.
Funny how these relationships last decades in this business.
Such a small world. I kind of love that everyone's
paths keep crossing, even if it's sometimes over a blown
cable or three. Fast forward to today and
Delicate isn't just delicate anymore.
They were now officially part ofthe Live Events network.
(04:38):
So not just live events, productions as such, but a whole
web of production expertise that's active production and
design in Atlanta, Gemini LSV inDallas, Zenith Lighting in
Orlando, and then of course their sister company
Pyrotechnico out East. Those are the fireworks and
drone show folks. Coast to coast, end to end, it's
(05:00):
all connected. Yeah, that's what blows my mind.
You've now got a network that can do everything like
jaw-dropping fireworks, out of this world effects, drone, light
shows, perfectly integrated audio and video, you name it.
They're not just producing another show, they're crafting
memories. Like actual moments that stick
with you for life. And it's that partnership.
(05:22):
Yeah. It turns an ordinary corporate
dinner or festival into a spectacle.
It's not about which company owns what.
It's about blending all these incredible teams and talents.
Makes RFPs way more interesting,I'll say that much.
So, Chris, from your perspective, how do partnerships
like this keep companies like Delicate on the cutting edge?
(05:43):
Isn't there a risk you could lose your, I don't know, local
identity? Good point.
I'd say it works because everyone brings a unique
culture. Delicate has it's get it just
right vibe. Pyrotechnico has fireworks in
its DNA. Gemini's all about technical
muscle. But when you combine them you
get these event superpowers and innovation follows.
(06:04):
Almost like you're bench pressing double what you could
solo. Bit of a wonky analogy, sorry,
but you get it. No, that's perfect.
It's like, well, having access to every tool in the box, plus
the people who know how to use them.
It's why those network wide collaborations turn out so epic.
All right, let's look ahead. Where's all this going?
I mean, you can't throw a cable without hitting talk about
(06:27):
augmented reality, virtual sets,AI running show, logistics
behind the scenes. In a way, it feels like that
spirit of if you love it, you'lllearn it.
It's still alive, just with way fancier toys.
Yeah, the gear geek in me loves this stuff, even if I have to
Google DMX mapping every time. But it isn't just about new
(06:47):
shiny things. It's, you know what's
sustainable. Delicate really leans into eco
friendly materials and energy efficient tech right?
Spot on. They do.
From the LED rigs to recycling scenic flats.
They're thinking about the environmental footprints.
I think it matters. Our industry can chew through
resources, so setting a standardthere, it's huge.
(07:09):
And what about people Delicate seems keen on bringing up that
next Gen. talent? All those mentoring moments,
getting folks backstage hands onlearning.
It's like Smoother said, follow your nose if you care and you're
curious. You'll find your lane even if
you start out hauling gear or, you know, making a pot of coffee
badly. Classic rite of passage.
(07:31):
But you're right, this industry still rewards those who roll up
their sleeves, who never think they know it all, and who helped
make each show better than the last.
If that doesn't sound like a great future, I don't know what
does. Couldn't agree more.
And hey, for everyone listening,we hope this episode leaves you
a bit inspired or at least less afraid of your next events crew
call. You can check out Delicate's
(07:53):
website www.delicate.com For more information.
That's it from us for now, we'llbe back soon.
More gear, more stories, maybe even a few more tales from the
road. Laci always good chatting with
you. Always a pleasure Chris.
Thanks everyone. Until next time, keep your
cables coiled and your ideas bright.
(08:28):
Music to your ears. Hey, hey, hey.
Let's go. New gear vibes, new tech jive
gearheads unite. We keep it live.
Oh yeah, the Lunar's gear. The Lunar's gear.
We got it here, Got it here.
All right, welcome back to Geezers of Gear Future Tech
Chris here, and I'm joined, as always by Lacey.
Now today's a special one. We're pulling back the curtain
on delicate productions, and honestly, it is one heck of a
legacy, isn't it Lacey? Absolutely, Chris.
And before we dive in, quick shout out.
Geezers of Gear are proud to officially announce Delicate
(00:41):
Productions as their newest podcast sponsor.
Geezers of Gear host Marcel Fairbairn and podcast producer
Sarah Burnie would like to say thank you to Chris Smother,
Smythe, Stephen Vitale and JodieDoggie for their support.
I mean, could that be a more perfect fit?
It's like peanut butter and jam.Or as we say in Britain, maybe
(01:01):
scones and jam. Anyway, legend has it delicates
founder Chris Smoother Smythe had just about the wildest path
into this industry you could dream of.
Left school, joined the RAF, somehow wound up working for Pan
Am. Then BAM makes a leap to become
a roadie for Flash with 0 experience.
That story blows my mind every time.
(01:24):
Didn't he just kind of ask what if it was me and basically
hopped on a flight? No real plan.
Exactly. Straight into it.
First gig at Fairleigh DickinsonUniversity.
Knew nothing, just absolute willingness to learn.
And that started a journey through bands like Genesis, The
Clash, Supertramp. Bit of trivia?
The company's name, Delicate Productions, actually nods to
(01:47):
Supertramp's Delicate Music. That's cool, didn't know that
detail. What always stood out to me
though is the culture. I remember my first delicate
gig, NASCAR Clash at the Coliseum.
It was a sea of cables and trusses, sure, but honestly, the
crew's energy electrifying, everyone, just flying, grinning,
getting things done, It made a huge impact on me.
(02:10):
There's that if you love what you do, success will follow
mantra with smoother, right? And I think for anyone coming up
in this field, it's a bit of a template.
It's not only about technical brilliance, but that sense of
camaraderie, learning from the best, all that passion wrapped
up in live event madness. Yeah, and Delicate's done it
all. Audio, lighting, video, total
(02:32):
package from that first gig withThe Clash to what they've become
today. It's wild.
But that's kind of your story too, isn't it, Chris?
Well, not quite as rock'n'roll as smoother, though I've carried
my share of flight cases in the rain, but you're spot on.
It's about loving every minute, even when it's chaos.
So Speaking of total package, delicate really is a one stop
(02:53):
shop right? Audio, lighting, video rigging,
production management, production design?
What am I missing? That's about it.
And it's not just covering the bases.
They do it at the highest level.I mean look at the projects.
Music Cares, the quail, bottle Rock, NASCAR, even the mocha art
(03:13):
plus film gala. Those aren't run-of-the-mill
events. Those are like hold my beer
productions. I get tired just saying that
list. But Chris, something else that
stands out. In earlier decades, live event
production was honestly the WildWest, right?
Oh, absolutely. In the 70s, artists, the band,
everyone ran the show, crew, management.
(03:35):
You kind of just muddled throughthe 80s.
Suddenly management steps in, cracks the whip.
By the 90's, the accountants show up.
And now, let's be honest, lawyers have built offices in
the truck pack. But it's true, we've lost a bit
of that dangerous seat of your pants innovation At the same
time we've gained safety accountability.
(03:56):
It's much better for everyone's health and sanity, if maybe a
bit less fun on paperwork. And you still get those behind
the scenes mishaps though. Wasn't there that story about
the Dire Straits Brothers in Arms tour?
Oh yeah, that was a classic. I remember a lighting hiccup mid
show, frantically swapping fusesand connectors.
But what's cool? Charles Herrington, who ran
(04:18):
Lighting back then, is now over at Zenith.
Funny how these relationships last decades in this business.
Such a small world. I kind of love that everyone's
paths keep crossing, even if it's sometimes over a blown
cable or three. Fast forward to today and
Delicate isn't just delicate anymore.
They were now officially part ofthe Live Events network.
(04:38):
So not just live events, productions as such, but a whole
web of production expertise that's active production and
design in Atlanta, Gemini LSV inDallas, Zenith Lighting in
Orlando, and then of course their sister company
Pyrotechnico out East. Those are the fireworks and
drone show folks. Coast to coast, end to end, it's
(05:00):
all connected. Yeah, that's what blows my mind.
You've now got a network that can do everything like
jaw-dropping fireworks, out of this world effects, drone, light
shows, perfectly integrated audio and video, you name it.
They're not just producing another show, they're crafting
memories. Like actual moments that stick
with you for life. And it's that partnership.
(05:22):
Yeah. It turns an ordinary corporate
dinner or festival into a spectacle.
It's not about which company owns what.
It's about blending all these incredible teams and talents.
Makes RFPs way more interesting,I'll say that much.
So, Chris, from your perspective, how do partnerships
like this keep companies like Delicate on the cutting edge?
(05:43):
Isn't there a risk you could lose your, I don't know, local
identity? Good point.
I'd say it works because everyone brings a unique
culture. Delicate has it's get it just
right vibe. Pyrotechnico has fireworks in
its DNA. Gemini's all about technical
muscle. But when you combine them you
get these event superpowers and innovation follows.
(06:04):
Almost like you're bench pressing double what you could
solo. Bit of a wonky analogy, sorry,
but you get it. No, that's perfect.
It's like, well, having access to every tool in the box, plus
the people who know how to use them.
It's why those network wide collaborations turn out so epic.
All right, let's look ahead. Where's all this going?
I mean, you can't throw a cable without hitting talk about
(06:27):
augmented reality, virtual sets,AI running show, logistics
behind the scenes. In a way, it feels like that
spirit of if you love it, you'lllearn it.
It's still alive, just with way fancier toys.
Yeah, the gear geek in me loves this stuff, even if I have to
Google DMX mapping every time. But it isn't just about new
(06:47):
shiny things. It's, you know what's
sustainable. Delicate really leans into eco
friendly materials and energy efficient tech right?
Spot on. They do.
From the LED rigs to recycling scenic flats.
They're thinking about the environmental footprints.
I think it matters. Our industry can chew through
resources, so setting a standardthere, it's huge.
(07:09):
And what about people Delicate seems keen on bringing up that
next Gen. talent? All those mentoring moments,
getting folks backstage hands onlearning.
It's like Smoother said, follow your nose if you care and you're
curious. You'll find your lane even if
you start out hauling gear or, you know, making a pot of coffee
badly. Classic rite of passage.
(07:31):
But you're right, this industry still rewards those who roll up
their sleeves, who never think they know it all, and who helped
make each show better than the last.
If that doesn't sound like a great future, I don't know what
does. Couldn't agree more.
And hey, for everyone listening,we hope this episode leaves you
a bit inspired or at least less afraid of your next events crew
call. You can check out Delicate's
(07:53):
website www.delicate.com For more information.
That's it from us for now, we'llbe back soon.
More gear, more stories, maybe even a few more tales from the
road. Laci always good chatting with
you. Always a pleasure Chris.
Thanks everyone. Until next time, keep your
cables coiled and your ideas bright.
(08:28):
Music to your ears. Hey, hey, hey.
Let's go. New gear vibes, new tech jive
gearheads unite. We keep it live.
Oh yeah, the Lunar's gear. The Lunar's gear.
We got it here, Got it here.
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