Banijay Live is expanding with the strategic acquisition of Lotchi, a creator of live immersive experiences whose debut show “Luminiscence” has attracted more than 350,000 spectators across France.
Spearheaded by former Banijay France CEO François de Brugada, Banijay Live was launched in 2023 following Banijay Entertainment’s acquisition of Balich Wonder Studio, and investment in The Independents.
Lotchi is a start-up founded by Romain Sarfati in 2023 which has gained recognition in France for its know-how in blending cutting-edge technology and live orchestra to deliver cultural spectacles around landmark venues.
“Luminiscence,” for instance, narrates the history of the Saint-Eustache Church in Paris, the Saint-André Cathedral in Bordeaux, Notre-Dame de la Treille Cathedral in Lille, and Basilica of Notre-Dame-de-l’Assomption in Lille. Lotchi is currently in talks with Banijay Entertainment producers across Spain and Germany to adapt the immersive experience into symbolic monuments in cities outside of France.
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“With creative entrepreneurship at its heart, Lotchi is a hugely complementary asset to our expanding portfolio of live entertainment businesses,” said de Brugada.
“In Luminiscence, Romain has crafted a truly unique show, which has landed immediate success through France. We hope together, in leaning on the footprint and expertise both we and Banijay Entertainment have built, we can take this offering to the next level across new cities and sites and capitalise on the company’s innovative approach to create the next must-see immersive spectacle,” de Brugada continued.
Sarfati, meanwhile, said his company took pride in “breathing life into our heritage while actively contributing to its preservation through the donations generated by our shows.”
“The success of ‘Luminiscence’ in France highlights the growing public interest in experiences that bring us together around a shared and universal history,” continued Sarfati, who also noted that “joining Banijay Live opens the doors to an exceptional international network, enabling us to stage our shows in some of the world’s most iconic monuments while also envisioning bold new creations.”