Teams 2027

On five evenings between May and September, teams composed exclusively of female designers will compete and light up the sky over Hanover. In doing so, Hanover is bringing together the world’s top female talent and, this year, impressively demonstrating the unique contributions women make to an industry traditionally dominated by men. Their diverse approaches make it clear that the art of fireworks has long been about much more than just mastering technical processes: it combines craftsmanship, music, creativity, dramaturgy, and cultural tradition.

The mandatory musical piece that opens every show will also be dedicated to a woman in 2027: “Emma” was composed by British composer Rachel Portman. The composition combines melodic, classically inspired film music with strings and woodwinds, creating an elegant, romantic atmosphere. With “Emma,” Portman made film music history, as it earned her the Oscar for Best Original Score in 1997—making her the first woman to win the award. The piece was recorded by the Munich Radio Orchestra.

The International Fireworks Competition takes place annually against the impressive backdrop of the Herrenhausen Gardens. The combination of historic Baroque architecture, technical precision, and creative diversity makes the competition a highlight of Hannover’s event calendar and a major attraction for visitors from Germany and abroad.

A varied program of activities—featuring culinary offerings, picnic areas, live music, and hands-on activities for children—will help pass the time on each of the five evenings leading up to the festive highlight: the fireworks display.

Hungary – Nuvu Kft.

NUVU stands for “New View,” meaning new perspectives in pyrotechnics. Founded in 2007, the Hungarian company combines more than 30 years of experience with creativity, innovation, and international expertise. Visual designer Anikó Seres plays a pivotal role in this, developing the artistic concepts for international productions. With her flair for music, pyrotechnics, and visual storytelling, she was instrumental in the award-winning NUVU productions in Montreal and Liuyang. NUVU creates fireworks shows and special effects for international festivals, concerts, and large-scale productions—including for artists such as AC/DC, The Rolling Stones, Madonna, Rammstein, and Coldplay. With Anikó Seres at the helm, the team combines technical precision with a distinctive artistic style.

Spain – Pirotecnia Vulcano

Pirotecnia Vulcano was founded in 1987 in Villarejo de Salvanés, near Madrid, and has since grown from a small family business into one of Spain’s leading pyrotechnics companies—shaped by a family in which women have also held leadership roles for generations. 
Vulcano stands for Spanish pyrotechnics rooted in tradition, precision, and innovation. The Madrid-based company draws on more than 25 years of experience and combines artisanal craftsmanship with state-of-the-art digital technology. In addition to classic fireworks displays, the team creates pyro-musicals and spectacular multimedia shows featuring music, lighting, and projections. With extensive experience, cutting-edge technology, and the highest standards of safety and quality, Vulcano develops custom productions in which every effect is precisely tailored to the narrative—creating a striking interplay of light, sound, and emotion.

Ukraine – Dance of Fire

The history of the Ukrainian team Dance of Fire began with one woman: In 2001, Tetiana Kuchugura founded the family business. What started with fireworks for her daughter’s 17th birthday evolved into an internationally successful pyrotechnics team. To this day, women from several generations of the family continue to shape the company. The team has already participated in 25 international fireworks festivals in Europe and Canada and has represented Ukraine at numerous prestigious festivals—including those in Montreal, Blackpool, Courchevel, and Madeira. With colorful productions, a wide range of effects, and a blend of Ukrainian music and international sounds, Dance of Fire creates shows that combine technical precision with emotional storytelling.

France – Sarl Fantasias

Fantasias is synonymous with French pyrotechnics of the highest caliber. Based near Paris, the company has been collaborating with Intermède for more than 20 years to produce large-scale pyrotechnic musicals and is internationally renowned for its precise staging. At the helm is Delphine Picarat, who has established herself as an exceptional figure in the traditionally male-dominated pyrotechnics industry. Her work has won awards at numerous international competitions—including multiple times in Hanover, where she is appearing for the sixth time this year. Using digital ignition systems and 3D simulations, she choreographs every effect down to the last detail. However, the focus is on the music: with her flair for musical dramaturgy, her passion, and her commitment to originality and perfection, Picarat takes the audience on an emotional journey. 

Japan – Inakako Horiuchi Fireworks Ltd. In Japan,
too, the art of fireworks has traditionally been dominated by male pyrotechnicians. Himawari Horiuchi once again represents a new generation of female fireworks artists. She is part of the long-established company Inakako Horiuchi Fireworks, which has been manufacturing fireworks in Nagano since 1899 and has passed down its craftsmanship through generations. In 2026, Horiuchi took second place in Japan’s National Competition for Female Fireworks Artists. She thus represents a generation of women who are increasingly making their own mark on the art of Japanese fireworks. Inakako Horiuchi Fireworks combines traditional Japanese craftsmanship with artistic precision and modern musical productions. The company is particularly well-known for its large-scale fireworks and spectacular shows that blend centuries-old craftsmanship with contemporary storytelling.