“Two things happen. The first step is the design process with the client where we ask them what they want to see, as we’re telling a story with music, narration and the drones. The more invested the client is and the more they give us, the better.” Right from the start, he tells clients the drone show is not a fireworks show. “It’s important to set expectations. A drone show is not going to be as loud, bright or as big as life. What we tell clients is, ‘Let us take your vision and turn it into reality.’” Some clients will come to Robillard and say they saw an amazing drone show in the United States. He quickly tells them that the show budget there may have been $500,000, with perhaps 2,000 to 3,000 drones in the air. By contrast, a show put on by Archangel will have 200 drones, max. “That’s why having a good budget is so important,” he says. “With any of our engagements, we will have a minimum of 100 drones. Below that, you lose image quality. Our largest show had upwards of 200 drones. The more, the better.” When the show theme and venue are set, it’s a matter of setting up to put on the show. Typically, a crew of four will show up to do setup. One highly qualified drone pilot will run the show from the ground. “The whole show is computerized with one licensed drone pilot orchestrating it from one computer. All flights are pre-planned and pre- assigned. Everything is based on GPS.” Once all the drones are put up in the air, they basically put on an aerial ballet that’s beautiful, precise and tells a great story. “Run length of shows tends to be about 12 minutes,” Robillard notes. “That’s the length of time that ensures a safe battery life.” He adds that Archangel’s best shows involve every tool in their extensive show kit: drones, fireworks, lasers and smoke. Still, drone shows have their place.
Archangel’s best shows involve every tool in their extensive show kit: drones, fireworks, lasers and smoke.
SAVOUR MANITOBA | WINTER 24 57
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