Hook a car battery to it.
jk, but try to see if you can find some LED's. they're going to be much stronger than EL wire. Since you see to wanting a practical approach.
maybe something like http://www.amazon.com/Operated-RTGS-Products-Satisfaction-Guarantee/dp/B004DZBYXK/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1461198613&sr=8-2&keywords=battery+LED