Meet Hans Cromheecke

With 30 years of experience in the AV industry, Hans Cromheecke has a proven record of expertly managing the most critical audio-visual projects for the world’s most prestigious events. From his time in the industry, Hans has witnessed an incredible shift in technology, which has enabled him to combine the latest technological advances with traditional AV technology to produce works of audio-visual art—leading him to be known as the ‘Wizard’ of the AV industry. We sat down with him to explore his inspirations, highlights of his career, his experience using Disguise and advice for new starts in the industry. 

Early aspiration

Hans was exposed to the AV industry from an early age, and quickly decided to turn his passion into a career. “In my first year of university, we had a free stage and they needed support staff to help manage it,” says Hans. “So I helped. And soon enough, one of the stage managers asked me if I was interested in helping him with a few gigs after my classes. From there, the gigs I worked on got bigger and bigger, and that’s how it all started.” 

Hans’ involvement in different shows continued to fuel his passion, and helped him build a strong network within the industry. “It was about meeting the right people,” adds Hans. “It all came very naturally for me because it’s my passion, and that’s important for our industry.” 

Discovering Disguise 

Hans first heard about Disguise through Smasher (Stefaan “Smasher” Desmedt) more than twenty years ago for a U2 show—it was a groundbreaking tool for the AV industry compared to other technologies at the time. “When Smasher first told me about Disguise, it was something so new,” he recalls. “So we bought the first server, went to India for a fixed installation, and tried it again for another event in China. I’ve been a fan ever since right from the start.” 

With his experience working on multiple projects in the AV industry, Hans has had the opportunity to use Disguise on numerous occasions.  “It’s very fast in terms of 3D simulation with projection and LED,” adds Hans. “It’s a tool that’s easy to use, clever and relatively affordable since Designer is free to use—it gives you a return on the market value.”

Memorable projects and proudest moments 

Having worked in the industry for three decades, Hans has a wide array of projects to be proud of—from complexity, scale and technical innovations and world firsts. Looking back over his projects, Hans reminisces on how he has always been drawn to trying out new technologies even before they’ve been released, and takes pride in always moving at the bleeding edge and looking for new possibilities. 

Amongst his proudest moments, Hans has worked on multiple Eurovisions, including last year’s which was the first of his projects to use SMPTE ST 2110. “You also have to remember that it's not just 15,000 people in that arena watching,” says Hans. “But it’s the 50 million people watching on television. It’s a little bit stressful, but that’s the job.”

Advice for new starters

Starting a career in the AV industry can be both exciting and challenging. Hans recommends that anyone looking to establish themselves in the AV industry should take every opportunity to be part of as many projects as possible. By doing so, new starters can learn from the experts around them and gain invaluable experience. Over time, with enough hands-on involvement, they'll find that they have the freedom to explore bigger shows and carve out their own unique path in the industry.

Hans also emphasises the importance of continuous learning and seeking help when needed. "Every show you do is always with a team. You will always find someone to help you, for anything whether it be big or small,” says Hans. He believes that while younger generations may feel they can handle everything on their own, it's essential to recognize that seeking assistance is not a sign of weakness. In fact, collaboration is key, and there will always be someone willing to lend a helping hand.

So, don't hesitate to ask for help and make the most of every learning opportunity that comes your way. The AV industry is all about teamwork and growth, and by embracing these principles, you'll be well on your way to a successful career.