Celesta, provider of fireworks and light drones

Allow between 3 and 6 months for a fully organised production: creative writing, administrative declarations, approval of safety plans, pyrotechnic orders and rehearsals. Celesta initiates the necessary prefectural procedures well in advance of the minimum one-month deadline imposed by Decree No. 2010-580 of 31 May 2010, to ensure every stage of the process is properly managed. For high-profile fireworks displays (14 July, town anniversaries), starting preparations 9 to 12 months in advance allows sufficient time for the musical scenography.

The fireworks display relies on the combustion of pyrotechnic materials (powders, oxidisers, colouring metals) and produces an immediate auditory and sensory experience. A drone show, by contrast, uses a swarm of LED-equipped drones programmed to create shapes and animations in the sky, with a more pronounced narrative element. We produce both disciplines and readily combine them in a single evening’s programme.

Drone shows are subject to European regulations on unmanned aircraft (Regulations (EU) 2019/947 and 2019/945). A swarm flight, carried out at night and in close proximity to the public, falls outside the scope of the ‘open’ category: it falls under the ‘specific’ category and requires an operator registered with the DGAC, trained drone pilots and an operating authorisation obtained following a risk assessment. In addition, depending on the venue, coordination with the airspace manager and local authorisations are required. Celesta compiles and submits this application for each show, just as it does for pyrotechnic declarations.

A multimedia show combines at least two performing arts disciplines from among pyrotechnics, light drones, video mapping, lighting, sound, lasers and performers. We build a visual and auditory narrative in which each technique has its place in the dramatic structure. Celesta designs these productions in the studio right from the writing stage, using storyboards and a precise timeline before rehearsals begin.

Yes, Celesta provides pyrotechnic and drone services for tours in Europe, the Middle East and Asia. We also produce fireworks and drone shows in Switzerland, with a local partner who holds the firing permits. The company uses its licensed storage facility in France to produce the effects, then adapts the regulatory documentation to local requirements (specific licences, customs, ADR and IATA transport). A single point of contact manages the logistics coordination throughout the tour.

Yes, provided that the regulations are complied with: notification must be made to the town hall and the prefecture for fireworks displays classified as category F4 or above, or if the fireworks display exceeds 35 kg of active material; a Level 2 certified pyrotechnician (F4-T2) must be present; and a safety perimeter must be established based on the calibre of the fireworks used. Wedding fireworks displays are governed by Decree No. 2010-580 of 31 May 2010 on the acquisition, possession and use of fireworks displays for entertainment purposes. Celesta handles all the administrative procedures on behalf of its private clients.