Business behind special effects in Harry Potter scoops King’s Award

A tech scale-up that has created special effects for Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, The Commonwealth Games and the Olympics, has been recognised with a King’s Award for Enterprise for International Trade.
Luminous was awarded the accolade in recognition of its global sales and export, delivered through the company’s sustained innovation and creativity.
The events engineering business, based in Exeter, was the brainchild of founders Mike Badley and Edwin Samkin who launched Luminous at Exeter Science Park in 2017.
Both qualified engineers, Badley’s background is in film special effects including Bond, Star Wars and Batman and Samkin has delivered special effects for live events including The London 2012 and Rio 2016 Olympic Opening Ceremonies.
The Sowton-based company has a team of 15 staff.
With its roots in science, Luminous specialises in manipulating physics and chemistry to bring live performance, experiences and projects to life. From super-sized water effects and digital rain to huge flames and smoke effects, the team engineers technology that lights up stages and performances across the world.
Badley said: “We have had a long-standing arrangement with Hogwarts since the first theatre production of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child opened in the West End and have helped the productions practise their magic ever since. We specialise in moments that people don’t forget. Behind this is a huge amount of clever tech and we are so proud of our brilliant team for the work they deliver. This award is a fantastic recognition of the dedication and innovation they bring to their work. Every day the team work hard with creativity, and passion to propel us to new heights in the world of special effects engineering.”
Just three years into the company’s journey, Luminous had to weather the effects of the pandemic which completely halted the live events industry. Quick to respond, the company started manufacturing hand sanitiser and face shields, going on to supply Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital. The company quickly bounced back after the pandemic, reverting to its core business.
Luminous is keen to nurture young talent in Devon and offers entry level positions and apprenticeships though a partnership with Exeter College, highlighting engineering as a career option in Devon.