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24 July 2025

UK - Unusual Rigging has announced the appointment of Matt Stott, a highly respected stage engineering specialist with over 15 years’ experience in bespoke mechanical systems and show automation. Matt’s arrival reinforces Unusual’s commitment to delivering technically ambitious solutions across theatre, live production and permanent installations.

Tom Harper, managing director, Unusual Rigging commented: “Matt joins us from TAIT and, before that, Delstar Engineering where he worked under the leadership of Paul Sadler. Many in the industry will already be familiar with Matt’s contributions to technically complex and high-profile productions including 42nd Street, Miss Saigon (2014) and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang (2024) and to capital projects such as Glyndebourne Opera House’s upgrade and the Royal Opera House’s Lindbury

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24 July 2025

UK - Sterling Event Group has announced the appointment of two experienced industry professionals to spearhead its expansion into the South of England alongside its broader national growth strategy.

James Hunter joins as director, bringing more than two decades of experience in delivering world-class event projects across the UK and internationally.

Jack Sayer also joins the company as project director, bringing a wealth of hands-on production expertise through his successful career in creative event delivery. Jack will focus on technically ambitious event experiences that reflect Sterling’s trademark precision and innovation.

“We’re very proud to welcome James and Jack to the team at such an exciting period for the business,” said Richard Bowden, managing director, Sterling Event Group. “Expanding into the South isn’t just about

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24 July 2025

Europe - Planar and Leyard Europe have announced the addition of Filip Cogghe as vice-president of sales, marketing and service for Europe.

Cogghe joins the company with more than 25 years of experience in the AV and display technology industries, most recently serving as sales director for global and strategic corporate sales at Sharp NEC Display Solutions Europe. There he played a pivotal role in forming and executing global sales strategies.

“We’re happy to have Filip Cogghe lead sales and marketing efforts across Europe,” says CEO at Planar Sidney Rittenberg. “With an impressive background that is highlighted by demonstrated sales leadership and growth as well as complex solution integration and involvement in mission-critical installations, he’s the right leader to guide this team in extending unrivalled support and visualisation solut

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23 July 2025

UK - Live Technology has announced two significant appointments as the business bolsters its team to support customers across the live events sector, following its launch last month.

Tim Haskell joins the dedicated live events distributor as product specialist – professional lighting, bringing more than 15 years of industry expertise with a focus on the film, TV, and broadcast sectors. Tim will be supporting Live Technology’s professional lighting team, helping to expand its presence in these markets following the addition of Sumolight and Elation to its portfolio, alongside Martin Professional, Robert Juliat, Macula, and StageSmarts.

Tim joins from Rotolight, where he played a key role in developing both sales and customer relationships in the UK and several major international markets.

Stuart Down has been appointed head of audio and wi

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18 July 2025

UK - The Association of British Theatre Technicians (ABTT) has announced that Mig Walsh, senior lecturer at Guildford School of Acting, stepped down as co-chair of the ABTT on Monday 14 July 2025, following nearly four years of dedicated service in the role.

David Evans, sustainability consultant, freelance production manager and current editor of Sightline, will continue as ABTT chair, ensuring leadership continuity and supporting ABTT CEO Liz Sillett and the wider team as they pursue strategic goals set earlier this year.

Appointed co-chair in November 2021 alongside David, Mig has played a pivotal role in guiding the ABTT through the challenges of the post-pandemic period. Her leadership has been marked by a strong focus on mental health and welfare within the backstage theatre industry – areas in which she has driven meaningful and las

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14 July 2025

UK - Solstice AV senior account manager, Tanita Russell, will be swapping the comfort of her office chair and computer later this month, by taking on one of the UK's most gruelling 50km ultra marathons as she helps to raise funds for the Alzheimer's Society.

Tanita, who joined Solstice AV – an international distributor of professional audiovisual solutions – in 2023, and a member of the AV community since 2012, has signed up for the now annual Boudicca Way 50km Ultra Marathon on 19 July, running through historic Norfolk villages and countryside, between Diss and Norwich.

“Alzheimer's is a profound challenge that touches us all,” explained Tanita ahead of her challenge. “It takes away not just individuals, but the cherished memories they have previously held so dear. Every step I take is not just for me, but for those affected by dementia.

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14 July 2025

The Netherlands - PPDS has announced the latest addition to its growing EMEA technical sales support team with the appointment of Fredrik Lundqvist as technical manager for the Nordic and Baltic regions.

Based in Stockholm and reporting to Jan Van Tieghem (director technical sales support, EMEA), Fredrik offers a broad spectrum of specialist technical skills and industry knowledge – global and local – to PPDS’ flourishing Nordics region. Previous roles include sales manager for hospitality, marketing manager for B2B, technical engineer for B2B, SmartTV manager for B2C, among others.

Fredrik will work closely with Jan in supporting pre- and post-sales activities in Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, and Sweden.

Discussing his new role, Fredrik commented: “I am proud and excited to have joined the PPDS team a

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11 July 2025

US/UK/Canada - ETC has introduced the talented students that are participating in the 2025 Fred Foster Student Mentorship Programme, hailing from the United States, Canada, and the UK. Through the programme’s online networking events, students will meet a wide range of industry mentors, building connections as they kick off their careers. ETC’s late Founder and CEO Fred Foster started the programme in 1999, recognising the critical role mentorship plays in any lighting professional’s career. Congratulations to the 2025 Fred Foster Student Mentees:

International Students

Aravindh (Aran) Baskar is a student at University College London, entering his final year. He has over 900 hours of experience in lighting theatre and music productions, working on a variety of projects from dance and drama to live

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11 July 2025

Europe - Pharos Architectural Controls has announced the appointment of Teodora Marian as regional sales manager - Central and Southern Europe.

With her master’s degree in Nuclear Power Engineering and over 20 years of experience designing complex systems in both the UK and Romania – including more recently eight years specialising in lighting and control solutions – Teodora offers a combination of technical expertise and industry knowledge.

She has previously worked with respected industry names including Lutron, Enttec and Architectural FX, providing support to designers, integrators, and developers across the UK and Europe.

Teodora shared her enthusiasm about joining the team: “I’m truly excited to become part of Pharos. Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to work with some great brands and professionals who have helped sh

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10 July 2025

USA - ACT Entertainment has announced the appointment of two members of the lighting sales team to newly designated sales territories. Jonathan Schneider and Asha Washington have been named as regional outside sales reps – lighting for the South-Central U.S. and Southeast U.S., respectively.

“We are thrilled to continue growing the lighting sales team within ACT Entertainment,” says director of sales, Doug Mekanik. “Both Jonathan and Asha bring unique experiences to the overall team ranging in expertise from touring to prior sales territory management. Adding these two team members enables us to provide our growing customer base with the personal, tailored relationship and resources they need and deserve.”

Based in Dallas, Jonathan Schneider was a media server engineer, lighting tech and crew chief with Upstaging for the last 11 years. He w

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09 July 2025

APACMEA - Eddie Tan has been appointed HH divisional sales and tech support manager for the APACMEA region from 1 July. 

Reporting to Ian Wright, director of HH Audio, Eddie will be responsible for the overall growth of HH within the APACMEA territory and will also provide partners with technical support and product & systems training.

“Eddie brings HH considerable knowledge and experience in both the commercial audio and professional audio/live sound, and has a proven track record in sales, technical support and after-sales,” says CEO James Laney. “Eddie also has extensive technical qualifications, which boost the standard of the HH team as the brand continues to expand into a larger range of system solutions.”

Ian Wright, HH brand director, comments: “I am looking forward to working closely with Eddie on the development of th

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08 July 2025

USA - Integrated Production Solutions (IPS) has announced that veteran tour and production manager Henry Bordeaux has joined the company as the director of business development for the production division following a 24-year career on the road leading major international tours.

His resume includes tours and events with Fall Out Boy, Miley Cyrus, Olivia Rodrigo, Travis Scott, Tyler The Creator, Jennifer Lopez, Jason Derulo, Nick Jonas, Avicii, Yellowcard, and Nickelodeon, as well as numerous corporate events and U.S. presidential campaigns. Bordeaux has also worked with promoters and labels including Live Nation, AEG, Sony Music and Universal Music Group.

“IPS has always been about precision and professionalism,” Bordeaux says. “With its facility expansion and studio buildout, the potential here is massive. My goal is to help IPS step confidentl

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07 July 2025

Europe - Elation has welcomed Alistair Smyth back to the Elation family. Alistair has rejoined Elation’s European team as key account manager, where he will support the company’s distribution partners and clients across the Nordic countries.

A 30-year industry veteran and familiar face in the lighting world, Alistair brings considerable experience in customer service, technical support, and sales, including an extensive background with some of the most respected lighting brands in the industry.

“It’s great to be back among my friends at Elation,” Alistair shares. “In our little industry, some of us are lucky enough to travel the world, meet amazing people, and see technology used to its fullest. But there's no place like home – and I’ve come home to rejoin my family at Elation. Thanks to Marc and the extended team for the warm welcome

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04 July 2025

Germany - d&b audiotechnik has announced Jocelyne Bückner as vice-president of marketing, starting from 1 July. In her new role, Bückner will lead the company’s global marketing strategy, driving brand growth and market expansion. She will focus on developing and executing a comprehensive marketing roadmap, ensuring alignment across all territories and supporting d&b’s continued growth and innovation.

Having worked at d&b audiotechnik from 2016 to 2023, she has a deep understanding of the company’s culture, values, and spirit. Bückner has successfully mentored and developed teams in the past. Most recently, she led Holoplot’s global marketing team.

“There’s a renewed energy and sense of direction at d&b that really resonates with me. Rejoining now feels like a natural step toward making a meaningful impact. Innovation a

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03 July 2025

Europe - The Liftket Group has welcomed John van Look as the new global technical trainer for its Chainmaster and Moveket brands. With decades of international experience in event rigging and extensive technical expertise, van Look will be responsible for designing and delivering technical training and workshop concepts for customers and partners worldwide.

John van Look is a certified master of event technology (stage/studio) and a certified expert for event rigging (SQ Q2 Level 3). His career has taken him from working on global tours for stars such as Lady Gaga and Justin Timberlake to major productions like the Eurovision Song Contest and the MDLBeast Soundstorm Festival.

“With John van Look, we are not only gaining an outstanding professional with global recognition, but also a strong communicator who knows how to translate c

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01 July 2025

UAE - Event crewing specialist Showforce has promoted several of its key team members in the Middle East as it looks to strengthen and expand its account management and operations departments.

Recognising and rewarding the contribution of long-standing team members Ann Dacumos, Ricky Holland, Diana Lucena, Haroon Nasir, Izceah Palmes and Amir Tufail, it puts the company in good stead as its business continues to grow throughout the GCC region.

Ann Dacumos steps up to head of account management – Middle East with direct reports Diana Lucena and Izceah Palmes both promoted to senior account handlers. Ann manages many of Showforce’s tier one clients on a day-to-day basis, including Coca Cola Arena, Dubai Opera, Creative Technology and PRG. In addition to maintaining strong client relationships, she works closely with the operations team to ensure th

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24 June 2025

USA - Bose Professional has announced the appointment of Joe Falcão as chief financial officer. Falcão brings more than 20 years of international financial leadership to the role, having previously guided high-performing teams across the retail, e-commerce, telecom, and healthcare industries from offices around the world.

Previously, Falcão has provided financial leadership for global brands including Dunkin and Cabot Corporation and managed teams at Invensys, iBasis, Thrasio and Orva, among others. Falcão has a proven track record of driving operational excellence across offices in Brazil, Belgium and Malaysia and leading organisations based in the UK, India, China, the Netherlands and Japan.

“Joe’s leadership in scaling complex global operations will be instrumental at this point in Bose Professional’s expansion,” said John Maier, CEO o

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24 June 2025

UK - Eat to the Beat, the specialist production, artist and crew catering division of Global Infusion Group, has expanded its operations team with four new team members and announced several senior promotions as it responds to a surge in demand and sets its sights on further international growth, with a focus on the USA.

With 2025 set to be a record-breaking year, the company has seen significant growth across touring, sporting and corporate events, prompting a strategic boost to its operational capacity to support new and existing clients around the world.

Kim Joyce and Olivia Morris, both long-standing team members, have been promoted to events director roles. Lacey Hogg and Lizzie Fryer have also stepped up to become senior account managers, as part of a broader focus on recognising and nurturing in-house talent.

Mary Shelley-Smith, Eat to

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23 June 2025

USA - InterAmerica Stage has announced the appointments of Nicolas Champion as VP of business development, Tom Casazza as business development manager, and Jason Osterman as senior project manager.

IA Stage COO Pete Borchetta comments: “Over the past number of months, you may have heard the news as we’ve been holding off on this announcement because we’ve been assembling an all-star lineup – and now, the moment has arrived. IA Stage proudly welcomes three of the industry’s finest: Nicolas Champion, Tom Casazza, and Jason Osterman. Each of them brings a wealth of experience, strategic vision, and a track record of excellence in sales and project management.

“Nicolas Champion’s expertise in driving business growth, coupled with his deep understanding of client needs, makes him an invaluable leader in shaping IA Stage’s future. Tom Casaz

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20 June 2025

UK - Stage Electrics Group has announced changes within its senior executive team. Andy Preece, group finance director, will retire from his executive role effective 31 July 2025, the end of the group’s financial year, and will assume a new position as a non-executive director.

Dave Coull, group CEO of Stage Electrics, said: “Andy’s breadth of experience and expertise have not only benefited the organisation financially and strategically but have also helped shape and develop our company culture over the past four years. As he moves into his new role as non-executive director, I’m confident the group will continue to benefit from his insight, non-executive oversight, and unwavering commitment to our continued growth and success.”

Nathan Athay, the company’s current finance manager, will be promoted to the role of group finance director an

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18 June 2025

UK - Celebrating three decades of partnership between The Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts (LIPA) and Sennheiser, the global audio specialist continues its commitment to nurturing emerging talent through the Sennheiser Student Scholarship programme.

This long-standing collaboration provides students with access to world-class audio expertise and industry resources, and Josh Dooley, a BA (Hons) Sound Technology student whose remarkable journey demonstrates extraordinary resilience and passion for audio engineering, has been selected as the 2025 scholarship recipient. His inspiring story of overcoming significant personal obstacles to pursue his musical ambitions captivated the judging panel, featuring Tim Sherratt, strategy manager at Sennheiser, and acclaimed theatre sound designer, Ben Harrison.

Growing up in a disadvantaged area of

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17 June 2025

UK - LSi is sad to report the passing of Dave Keighley on 9 June 2025. Until May 2024, Keighley had served as Chairman of the PSA (Production Services Association) before ill health led to his retirement. Prior to that, he enjoyed a long career in lighting, design and production, touring with many leading artists and leading several big-name companies, including of Light and Sound Design (LSD), Syncrolite LLC, SGM Lighting and PRG Europe, where he was managing director from 1998 to 2008.

A statement from the PSA reads: “Dave was instrumental, together with other well-known industry names, in forming the PSA in the late ‘80s. Over many decades, Dave continued to promote, support and advocate for the association’s work, representing those who work in live event production.”

It continues: “Dave was an inspiration to many, he was a visionary, a

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16 June 2025

UK - Pharos Architectural Controls has announced John Jarrard as the new regional sales manager for the Middle East.

His appointment is part of a long-term growth strategy within the sales operation, designed to strengthen regional engagement and create new development opportunities for team members.

Jarrard brings over a decade of experience in architectural lighting controls, having led European and Middle East sales at ENTTEC and Advatek Lighting, where he developed key customer relationships and was responsible for commercial strategy.

On his new role, Jarrard said: “It’s a career highlight for me to be joining the Pharos team. I’m looking forward to the new challenges this role will bring, while being able to leverage the skills and relationships I have from my previous sales positions. I’m looking forward to championing the Phar

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12 June 2025

UK - The ABTT Theatre Show came alive at Alexandra Palace in London with the annual ABTT Awards hosted by the Association of British Theatre Technicians. This event showcases the contributions people in the industry have been making to theatre and live events.

Ted Moore, director at sponsor TAIT said of the Awards: “TAIT are really proud to be here once again to sponsor the ABTT Awards, which I truly believe are the best award presentations anywhere in our industry. We wish all the nominees good luck and give congratulations to whoever the winners may be.”

The highly sought after People Awards included the ABTT Technician of the Year, the ABTT Award for Emerging Excellence and the ABTT Cmyru Nick Bache Technician of the Year Award which all recognise the achievements of individuals both starting out and well-established in their backstage careers