Taking centre stage

Founder of Showtech, Shaji George, shares his success story

The Founder-Director of the light and sound company, Showtech, Shaji George has added true pizazz and shine to the best events in the region. He recently made the Masala! Awards a spectacular success by converting fantastical concepts into magical reality. From concerts, award ceremonies, product launches, weddings and corporate parties to indoor-outdoor events and more, Shaji and Showtech have, since the company’s incpetion in 1998, made a mark in the region. We get talking with the man himself...

Please tell us about yourself. How did you come to Dubai?
My journey started as a single person looking for opportunities in Dubai. I was always confident about my talents and kept on looking for the right opportunity to come my way.

How did you start Showtech?
During my college days, along with dancing and choreographing shows, I used to organise events. Having gone through all the aspects of organising an event I felt that the technical production was the most difficult and crucial part of the success of a programme which is why I chose to get into it.

What challenges did you face when you initially entered the business?
In the very beginning every day was a challenge. With no capital in hand, being a first-generation entrepreneur was a task. I still remember a time when I used to personally install and operate equipments at events and run my business from my small office in Bur Dubai. From introducing and marketing myself to various clients and event management companies, providing technical advice and drawings, executing the drawings and making the event a huge success, I did everything. Showtech, gradually, gained recognition and grew.

Can you take us through the process of planning an event?
Conceptualising an event is different from producing it. We are a production house and every event has its own challenges. The most challenging part is trouble-shooting – presence of mind and experience assist us during such situations.

What are the most memorable events you have done in the past 13 years?
Whether a 20-person house party or a live concert of 25,000 people, Showtech places equal importance on all the events we do. I can’t single out any one show.

What is the biggest compliment you have received for your work?
Most of our clients are event management companies. The success of each event is a compliment in itself. We are truly honoured, however, when the end user compliments our client (the event management company in question) for a job well done.

What qualities are needed to succeed in your line of work?
Honesty, hard work and perseverance are some of the most important qualities. Additionally, our professionalism gives us the winning edge.

Every person who is a part of Showtech, whether a technician or the head of a department, takes true ownership of his or her responsibilities. There are very few organisations where people stay connected for more than a decade. I feel proud that there are people who have stayed with us for that long. Every member of Showtech is my extended family.