ABOUT US
THE PEOPLE
BEHIND THE
EXPERIENCE.
President
DAVID SURBROOK
40+
Years
OF LIVE EVENT EXPERIENCE
CONCERTS • CORPORATE
TOURING • BROADCAST
CHEER & DANCE
NASHVILLE, TN
NATIONWIDE REACH.
Little did I know that when my mom suggested I sing “You Light Up My Life” by Debbie Boone for my sixth grade talent show, more than 40 years later it would be my own life that would be illuminated by the hundreds of events I’ve helped produce and the incredible people I’ve met, partnered with, and ultimately called friends along the way.
It all started when I attended my first concert, KISS in 1985. In that moment, I knew I wanted to be part of the behind the scenes magic that brings live events to life through sound, lighting, and special effects.
With the limited resources of a middle school student and the unwavering support of my parents, I started a disc jockey business that, over the next 22 years, evolved into a multifaceted event production company based in Michigan.
In 2007, I launched a new venture, UpLight Technologies, and moved to Nashville, Tennessee, also known as Music City USA. Today, with more than 40 years of experience in the event production industry, including design, management, audio, lighting, video, rigging, and power systems, my passion remains the same: creating unique and unforgettable experiences for our clients and their guests.
Throughout my career, I have had the honor and privilege of collaborating with some of the industry’s finest companies, organizations, artists, and designers. Together, we have produced concerts, fashion shows, galas, fundraisers, awards shows, annual conferences, corporate events, ice shows, festivals, and even the world’s largest and most prestigious cheerleading events.
I’m not one for name dropping, but the home page of our website highlights just a few of the remarkable events and partnerships that have shaped our journey over the years.
It is truly a joy to do what I do every day. I feel incredibly fortunate to work alongside the talented professionals who make up Team UpLight and to have the opportunity to serve our distinguished clients. Their trust, partnership, and shared vision are what continue to inspire us to create exceptional experiences, one event at a time.
Q&A
A few things you might want to know.
01
What was the best thing that happened to you at a gig?
I met my wife while on tour and unloading our production trailer in Tulsa OK.
02
Something random that happened while planning an event?
I received a phone call from Florence Henderson (Mrs. Brady) on my Razor flip phone while waiting in line for a roller coaster at Cedar Point.
03
Favorite food to grab after load out?
Double Double with grilled onions, fries and a Coke from In-N-Out Burger.
04
What is your favorite musical artist to listen to?
The 1975 and U2.
05
My Happy Place is...
I love spending time with my family, especially our annual Thanksgiving fort building tradition. Whether it's riding the Haunted Mansion at Disney or working on cars with my son, those are the moments I treasure most.
HR & Accounts Lead
KARYN SURBROOK
20+
Years
IN THE INDUSTRY
HR • ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE
OPERATIONS • TEAM SUPPORT
NASHVILLE, TN
NATIONWIDE REACH.
Karyn Surbrook is the HR Director and Accounts Receivable Lead at UpLight Technologies, a company she owns with her husband, David. With over 20 years of experience in the production industry, Karyn began her career as an intern and worked her way up to become an audio engineer for live events. She has also served as a tour manager for national tours, combining technical expertise with logistical leadership to ensure seamless live event execution.
Today, she brings her deep industry knowledge, strong administrative skills, and a passion for the touring production world to managing UpLight’s operations and supporting its continued growth. Outside of work, Karyn dedicates her time to charitable organizations and community focused initiatives.
Q&A
A few things you might want to know.
01
Something random that happened while doing or planning an event?
I was running monitors and someone asked if I had any tape. I was busy, "not right right now" I said, so they put a duffle bag on my EQ rack, and told me the zipper was broken. Turns out there was a huge snake in the bag….
I got them tape.
02
What is your favorite color?
Blue.
03
My happy place is...
Spending time with my family.
04
Favorite food to grab after load out?
Ice cream.
05
Rainy or Sunny?
Rainy. I love the sun but if I could only have 1, it would be rain.
Executive Operations & Logistics Director
ZACH CHARLES
7+
Years
AT UPLIGHT
AUDIO • VIDEO • OPERATIONS
LOGISTICS • CLIENT SUPPORT
NASHVILLE, TN
NATIONWIDE REACH.
Originally from Newtown, Connecticut, Zachary Charles began his career in live production while studying at Western Connecticut State University, where he earned recognition with a KCACTF Award for Distinguished Sound Design and Engineering. Following graduation, he worked with a variety of production companies as an audio technician, prep technician, and touring technician, gaining experience across both the music industry and the corporate event world.
In 2018, Zachary joined David and Karyn Surbrook at UpLight Technologies as an audio technician. Through his dedication and leadership, he has grown within the company and now serves as Executive Operations and Logistics Director, overseeing the seamless execution of events and supporting UpLight's commitment to technical excellence and client satisfaction.
Q&A
A few things you might want to know.
01
What is your favorite color?
Black.
02
What was the first concert you attended?
Warped Tour 2009
03
Rainy or Sunny?
Rain.
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER
SCOTT DUPRE
20+
Years
IN THE INDUSTRY
CLIENT RELATIONS • PARTNERSHIPS
STRATEGY • PRODUCTION • GROWTH
NASHVILLE, TN
NATIONWIDE REACH.
With a musician’s ear and an engineer’s precision, Nashville based mix engineer Scott Dupre has spent the last 20 years bringing music to life on stage, in the studio, and on screen. From orchestras at Carnegie Hall to PBS specials at the Grand Ole Opry House to indie albums and audiobooks, he’s known for his technical skill, calm under pressure, and easy collaboration.
When he’s not behind the console, you’ll find him roasting coffee and enjoying time with his children.
Q&A
A few things you might want to know.
01
What was the best thing that happened at a gig?
When someone notices the mix and takes a moment to say something kind about it.
02
What is your favorite color?
Blue.
03
My happy place is...
In the kitchen
04
What was the first concert you went to?
Sha Na Na
(I was very young)
05
Bungalow on the beach or cabin in the mountains?
Beach.
Executive CREATIVE Director
JAMES MITCHELL
12+
Years
AT UPLIGHT
CREATIVE DIRECTION • DESIGN
LIGHTING • VISUALS • EXPERIENCE
CROSSVILLE, TN
NATIONWIDE REACH.
James Mitchell grew up around audio, video, and lighting, inspired by watching his dad run sound at church. That early curiosity led him to audio production camps, where he met David Surbrook and discovered a passion for lighting design and live event production.
James began working with UpLight Technologies while still in high school, gaining hands on experience that shaped his career. He later graduated Cum Laude from The Theatre School at DePaul University with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree.
Since joining UpLight in 2012, James has grown from freelancer to Executive Creative Director. Today, he combines creative direction, lighting, visuals, and experiential design to create immersive live experiences that connect with audiences and leave a lasting impression.
Q&A
A few things you might want to know.
01
Rainy or sunny?
Rainy (Thunderstorms are the best)
02
What is your favorite color?
Blue.
03
My happy place is...
Home with family.
04
What was the first concert you went to?
Billy Joel & Elton John.
05
Bungalow on the beach or cabin in the mountains?
Cabin in the mountains.
Production Specialist & Shop Foreman
PHILLIP PANOS
20+
Years
IN THE INDUSTRY
THEATER • EVENTS • TOURS
PROGRAMMING • TECH DIRECTION
NASHVILLE, TN
NATIONWIDE REACH.
Phillip’s career in lighting began in high school, when his choir teacher introduced him to Nashville’s local community theater scene. Starting as a follow spot operator in school, he quickly developed a passion for live production and worked his way up through various roles in lighting design, programming, and technical direction. Over the years, Phillip has gained extensive experience across theaters, event productions, touring preps, and live shows, building a reputation for creativity, reliability, and technical precision.
While working as Lighting Designer for the event group 12 South Band, Phillip connected with David and Karyn Surbrook, who provided production for many high profile events that the band played for. That partnership led to his current role with UpLight Technologies, where he serves as Production Specialist and Shop Foreman, leading crews, overseeing preps, and programming shows.
From his first spot op position in high school to managing large scale productions today, Phillip has built his career on a foundation of hands on experience, mentorship, and a love for creating unforgettable live moments.
Q&A
A few things you might want to know.
01
My happy place is...
At home relaxing with my husband.
02
What was the first concert you attended?
The Moody Blues at the Hot Air Balloon Classic in Edwin Warner Park, Nashville, June 1993.
03
Favorite musical artist to listen to?
It is honestly a three way tie between Capleton, Negros Tou Moria and Marilyn Manson.
Event Production & Shop Technician
ANGEL VELEZ
8+
Years
IN LIVE PRODUCTION
VIDEO • LIGHTING • LEADERSHIP
CLIENT RELATIONS
NASHVILLE, TN
NATIONWIDE REACH.
Angel’s career began in 2016 with no prior experience. After his first day, he was invited back and mentored by a supervisor who helped shape the foundation of his career. As his skills grew, so did his passion for video production, with lighting becoming a close second passion along the way.
In 2023, after a successful tour season with UpLight, Angel relocated from Connecticut to Tennessee to join the team full time. A decision he considers one of the best of his career.
A true people person, Angel enjoys building relationships, collaborating with crews and clients, and bringing live events to life. Outside of work, he’s an avid animal lover, basketball player, and coach who enjoys learning, traveling, and embracing new challenges.
That’s a bit about me. Looking forward to what’s ahead!
Q&A
A few things you might want to know.
01
What is your favorite musical artist to listen to?
Morgan Wallen
02
What is your favorite city to do an event in?
Chicago or Los Angeles
03
My happy place is...
A basketball court.
04
What was the first concert you went to?
Rascal Flatts
Event Production & Shop Technician
MICHELLE FRIEDMAN
4+
Years
IN THE INDUSTRY
LIGHTING • DESIGN
PRODUCTION • CREW SUPPORT
NASHVILLE, TN
NATIONWIDE REACH.
Michelle joined UpLight Technologies just one month after graduating high school, bringing with her a passion for production lighting that began all the way back in middle school. By her sophomore year, she knew lighting was what she wanted to pursue professionally, and she’s been chasing that dream ever since.
One of her favorite parts of working in lighting during high school was designing the lighting for the dance shows each semester, a creative challenge she looked forward to every time.
Working at UpLight has given her invaluable insight into how the production industry operates, and continues to be a place where she learns and grows every day.
Outside of work, Michelle enjoys crocheting and diving into the magical world of Harry Potter.
Q&A
A few things you might want to know.
01
What is your favorite city to do an event in?
New Orleans.
02
What is your favorite color?
Sage Green.
03
Favorite food to grab after load out?
Either Chinese or a Sub.
04
What is your favorite musical artist to listen to?
Billie Eilish.
05
Something interesting about me...
I love to crochet in my free time.
