The Oklahoma Film + Music Office’s “Innovation Insight” series profiles a variety of Oklahoma film and music professionals who have found creative ways to continue their craft or businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic. As we continue adjusting in these uncharted waters, our creatives around the state continue finding innovative ways to use technology and we agree with their mindset: “The show must go on”.
July’s Innovation Insight features Toucan Productions, Oklahoma’s largest provider of lighting, staging and sound in the state and one of the largest in the Southwest. Since its conception, owners Robin Alvis and Misty Myers have put a premium on creativity when it comes to the entertainment industry. This innovative mindset has kept Toucan at the forefront of their industry and has proven itself critical as live events around the world have come to a screeching halt in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Despite what could be a devastating blow to a live production company, Toucan Productions remains positive and dedicated to excellence. Large entertainment events are likely to be the last to return to normal. As concert venues around the state take new safety measures, venues like the BOK Center in Tulsa, Oklahoma, have looked to Toucan for the new Thermal Body Temperature Solutions technology in order to take proactive steps toward “returning to normal” safely, when the time comes.
As a result of these cancellations, many entertainment professionals have taken this time to incorporate livestreaming elements into their events. Toucan Productions is no exception. In their newest Wednesday night livestream performance series, “Secret Shop”, a combination of performers, state of the art technology and the most talented lighting directors in the Midwest showcase an impressive display of Oklahoma talent and professionalism.
This livestream is available on common social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram, but Toucan is pushing the technology envelope. By utilizing “Twitch” as an additional streaming platform, collaborative strides between the massive gaming industry and music industry continue to evolve. “We have many more tricks up our sleeve,” says Battle Ahmadi, Toucan Productions Business Development Executive/Brand Ambassador. Follow them on social media to see what’s next for this innovative Oklahoma company.
For the latest news from Toucan, including upcoming lineups for their livestream show “Secret Shop”, or if have a band and want to shoot a video, visit toucanproductions.net.
Submit your own stories or nominate another Oklahoma film and/or music professional or business’ innovation, whether they found creative ways to retain employees, bring education or entertainment to new virtual audiences, provide emergency relief or even simply staying in business during these unprecedented times. Oklahomans will come out stronger and better as we rebuild our future. SUBMIT HERE.
