You won’t find too many AV integrators who do work in both churches and strip clubs, but there’s at least one — and there’s a sense of pride in Sound Stage Systems co-owner Karl Kieslich about that.
The North Haven, Conn.-based company has worked throughout the U.S., Middle East, Scotland and elsewhere for almost 40 years now, providing sound, lighting, video and interior design services predominantly in the entertainment world.
The interior design work came largely from Sound Stage’s ability to install LED lights about eight to 10 years ago and “took our scope of work even further,” says Kieslich.
“Years ago, strip clubs were these very dark, seedy places and they didn’t have AV like they do today. We’ve done work in places that have high-end restaurants, VIP areas, concierge services and even a helipad.” Karl Kieslich, Sound Stage Systems
Sound Stage has won multiple awards for its work in night clubs and adult entertainment venues, and is seen as the go-to integrator for that market among high-profile venues such as Scores, Hustlers and Penthouse, along with smaller regional outposts.
“Years ago, strip clubs were these very dark, seedy places and they didn’t have AV like they do today,” says Kieslich, who co-owns Sound Stage with his brother Kurt. “We’ve done work in places that have high-end restaurants, VIP areas, concierge services and even a helipad.
“We’ve always done night clubs. As adult clubs developed, we went with it. Now the industry comes to us. Night clubs and adult clubs are very similar. Instead of dance floors, there’s a stage. It’s not just a guy’s hangout anymore,” he says.
Kieslich says Sound Stage is “very proud of our affiliation” with adult entertainment venues and they promote it heavily on the company’s website.
That doesn’t mean it always comes up during pitch meetings with potential clients though.
“We don’t promote that part of our business when we’re doing church work,” notes Kieslich.
Working with Strip Clubs as Clients
Most of Sound Stage’s work in adult entertainment spots comes during the day, he says, although many of the clubs are open 24 hours a day or at least most of the day. Some of the spots have some down time in the middle of the afternoon to early evening, says Kieslich.
Like with most other work they do, the schedule is dictated by the availability of the venue itself.
Kieslich credits “luck and hard work” for Sound Stage’s ability to become the preeminent AV integrator in the adult entertainment world.
“There are competitors out there, but we positioned ourselves well years ago,” says Kieslich.
See more photos of Sound Stage Systems’ work in strip clubs here: photo gallery
