Rigging / Staging

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02 June 2025

UK - PLASA Focus Leeds 2025 returned to the Royal Armouries on 13-14 May, drawing a vibrant cross-section of the live entertainment technology sector for two buzzing days of connection, innovation and learning.

This year’s show welcomed 2,852 professionals, an increase on the 2024 show. The quality of attendees continues to thrive, with 687 directors, owners, or chairs representing 16% of the audience. Significantly, when combining senior roles and those in sales, procurement and specification, nearly 40% of the professionals on site held final decision-making responsibility, underscoring the event’s commercial impact.

A broad spectrum of industry roles was represented, including sound and lighting engineers, technicians, production and tour managers, lighting designers, venue and operations staff, as well as consultants, buyers, lecturers, conte

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30 May 2025

Europe - TAF has increased the quality, efficiency, and output of its truss manufacturing activities with the addition of a highly advanced laser cutting machine on its production line.

Aluminium tubes used in the construction of TAF’s highly regarded truss will now feature precisely curved and angled cuts that are not only carried out extremely quickly and efficiently but will also contribute to higher strength and stability.

Thanks to the increase in production output with TAF’s new laser cutting machine, TAF is able to further ensure the delivery of its Truss on Time promise.

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28 May 2025

UAE/Qatar - Disney’s The Magic Box, a spellbinding theatrical spectacle that brings classic Disney moments to life in a bold, arena-scale production, opened last month in Doha after a successful five-week run at the Etihad Arena, Yas Island in Abu Dhabi. Behind the scenes of the UAE leg of this technically complex tour was Unusual Rigging & Engineering (URE).

With a need for fly bars, Kinesys automation, and high-capacity performer flying winches, the show is a theatrical production layered within an arena tour - demanding a rigging solution that blends theatre precision with touring efficiency.

“From the moment I joined Proactiv Entertainment, I’ve always enjoyed working with Unusual Rigging,” said Dani Marin, senior technical manager at Proactiv Entertainment, the company behind the Middle East tour. “They’re my go-to team

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27 May 2025

UK - Sterling Event Group has announced a major expansion in facilities, a strengthened specialist team, investment in the latest production technologies, and a new brand identity.

With an impressive 25-year track record of delivering high-end production for corporate, private, public sector and live entertainment events, Sterling is now scaling its capabilities to support national and international growth. The company has built deep-rooted relationships with clients across the North of England and has consistently delivered strong growth year on year.

Sterling’s move to a new 102,000sq.ft warehouse at Manchester’s ICON Business Park more than doubles its existing capacity. The site will house a comprehensive inventory of professional-grade production technology, which is meticulously serviced and maintained by Sterling’s in-house team, for dep

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23 May 2025

UK - Highlite International showcased several new products at PLASA Focus Leeds 2025, with the Showtec IP Pixelstrip 40 and Showtec Goliath light fixtures making their UK debuts, alongside the DAP TA amplifiers.

The new products were joined by existing favourites, including the Infinity Furion S402 Spot, the Furion W402 Wash and the Furion P602 Profile. DAP’s active PA system, Frigga, was there too. Several of Showgear’s innovative rigging solutions were also on display and Wentex’s popular FOH Drape case also made an appearance.

In addition to demonstrating some of Highlite’s newest and most popular products, Highlite’s UK team took the opportunity to reconnect with familiar faces and foster new relationships.

Highlite’s UK sales director, David Drane, was extremely enthusiastic about the event: “It was incredibly exci

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20 May 2025

USA - ETC has announced the launch of ETC SiteLink, a powerful, new always-on monitoring solution designed to give facilities complete visibility of their lighting and rigging systems - anytime, anywhere.

SiteLink is engineered for professionals who demand reliability, flexibility, and peace of mind. Whether you're managing an entertainment space, building complex, or touring, SiteLink ensures your systems are always within reach. With real-time alerts and user-specific access controls, SiteLink empowers technical teams to stay ahead of issues and maintain peak performance across all ETC-connected devices.

“ETC SiteLink is more than just a monitoring tool - it’s an active partner in system management,” says Kirk Starks, networking product manager at ETC. “From electrical closets to rigging lines, ETC SiteLink brings your entire infrastructure

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20 May 2025

UK - Penn Elcom has launched Case Designer 2, a new version of its software platform for the streamlined all-in-one design, costing and production of high-quality flightcases. v2 features a completely rebuilt software stack and is subscription-based.

Case Designer 2 builds on the success of global manufacturer Penn Elcom’s original v1 Case Designer flightcase design software. It offers an agile, fast, and user-friendly build-and-order programme that optimises flightcase construction utilising Penn Elcom’s extensive range of robust and reliable hardware components.

The programme offers improved performance from v1, an intuitive interface, and expanded hardware compatibility with real-time 3D rendering, STP file support, and links to Penn Elcom’s continuously updated component database.

New Case Designer 2 features include the support of

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16 May 2025

UK - The Lifting Equipment Engineers Association (LEEA) has outlined ways industry can raise awareness and find solutions to the skills gap - the primary focus of Global Lifting Awareness Day (GLAD) 2025 on 12 June.

GLAD, upheld by the theme Lifting Careers, Building Futures, is dedicated to tackling the growing skills shortages across the lifting industry and promoting practical tools to attract new talent. The day is a launchpad to inspire the next generation to explore careers in lifting.

LEEA will exclusively reveal the findings of its State of the Lifting Industry survey on GLAD. However, it has urged members and other stakeholders to create their own campaign contributions that can be submitted in advance and promoted via LEEA platforms on the day. LEEA wants to hear directly from the lifting industry about what they’re alre

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13 May 2025

Europe - TAFtool 5.0 is TAF’s latest version of its advanced software that allows you to build 3D structures in a virtual environment with TAF products and with real-world dimensions - all on your own computer.

Try out your new ideas. Create bespoke or custom projects. Enjoy standard/profile/top views of your structure, rotate the camera angle, zoom in, zoom out. Save your progress for later. When done, export to PDF with a list of all products and dimensions for requesting an accurate price quote from TAF.

TAFtool 5.0 comes with many improvements that includes a more polished interface, refined icons, a larger library of TAF products and support structures, weight added to 3D elements, bug fixes, and much more.

A new feature allows you to upload what TAF products you currently have in stock and use them to build your virtual structure. The

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12 May 2025

UK – Area Four is returning to the Royal Armouries on 13-24 May. Stands R-D18 & R-D19 will feature the latest from the Area Four Industries brands including Milos, Litec, Prolyte, Xstage and the full range of EXE Technology chain hoists.

There's also the opportunity to get hands-on with Exe Load Cells where Matt Millward, head of automation will be available to discuss your requirements and show you more around the global interest in our new wireless load monitoring solutions from EXE Technology.

With increased demand following ISE and Prolight + Sound, learn more about the global interest in EXE Flexa sensors. Offered in four load cell management platforms, EXE Cell wired LC-Pro & LC-NLP and EXE Flexa wireless Real-Time and Dynamic. There will also be a wide selection of EXE hoists on demo.

A4I UK's head of automation, Matt Millwar

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09 May 2025

UK - Sixty82 has announced the opening of its new UK office at Production Park in Wakefield - the dynamic hub for live events, touring, and production industries.

Having successfully served the UK market for years via distribution, Sixty82 is now taking the next step in its growth by establishing a full presence in the country to further enhance the already strong product support, improve lead-times and listen even more closely to its UK customers.

The UK office will be led by managing director Tom Richter, who brings a wealth of experience from his time as UK head of integration at TAIT. Working alongside him is technical director Johnny Marshall, a well-known and highly respected figure in the trussing and staging industry.

“Sixty82 has always believed in being where our customers are,” said Tom Richter. “With our new office and exten

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08 May 2025

UK - There’s no denying that event production is evolving, and the demand for high-quality, seamlessly integrated technical equipment has never been greater. As events have grown larger, more immersive, and increasingly complex, the role of technical suppliers has shifted. Gone are the days of simply delivering functional equipment; today, every piece of kit must meet rigorous performance standards while blending seamlessly into its surroundings.

At DCLX, the goal is to create an environment where technology enhances rather than distracts, allowing audiences to engage fully with the event’s creative vision. From cables to weights, lighting fixtures to truss systems, every element we supply is carefully considered to ensure the highest level of quality and reliability.

“Truss plays a foundational role in event production, providing the structura

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08 May 2025

UK - IPS, supplier of staging and structures, technical production, and equipment hire to the events industry, is excited to return to PLASA Focus Leeds 2025, bringing a bold new lineup of IP-rated lighting and showcasing some of the most exciting developments in technical equipment hire.

As one of the industry's most trusted suppliers, IPS is set to raise the bar at Stand N-B05, where the team will be ready to inform with their latest innovations and investments.

This year’s spotlight is firmly focused on outdoor-ready, IP rated lighting, responding to the growing demand for versatile, weather-resistant fixtures. Making its debut in the IPS hire fleet is the highly anticipated Martin MAC Viper XIP, a cutting-edge luminaire that combines the power and precision of the classic Viper series with robust IP65 protection.

Joining the lineup are

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07 May 2025

Switzerland - Doughty Engineering Ltd has announced Menzi EBZ as its new distributor in Switzerland. Menzi EBZ was formed in 2010 after the merger of Menzi Eventtechnik and EBZ Eichberger, and focuses on the distribution of lighting control systems and rigging for event technology service providers, theatres, television, and scenic architecture. 

“We always aim to have the best brands in every product segment, and we’re proud to and excited to add Doughty Engineering as an industry defining name in rigging equipment to our portfolio,” says Andreas Stahl, COO of Menzi ebz ag.

Julian Chiverton, CEO of Doughty Engineering Ltd said of the partnership: “We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Menzi EBZ into our network of distributors. With their extensive product portfolio and industry expertise, we feel this to be a perfect match.”

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06 May 2025

USA - With decades of rigging expertise, KDH Precision ensures both successful performances and the safety of all involved. Since 2017, the company has provided rigging services for Metallica and collaborated with numerous A-list acts and major events. Founded by Chad Koehler, one of the industry’s most experienced and recognised rigging specialists, KDH Precision continues to set the standard for excellence in rigging and safety.

KDH Precision has worked closely with artists such as Rihanna, Beyoncé, The Rolling Stones, Shania Twain, Carrie Underwood, Kid Rock, and most recently, Chris Stapleton and Zach Bryan.

"With the ever-growing complexity of production spaces, ensuring the safety of fans, staff, and talent has become an escalating concern. The use of advanced technology, coupled with the increasing size, weight, and dynamics of shows, as we

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06 May 2025

UK - Pearce Hire, the award-winning provider of innovative and sustainable technical solutions to the events industry has confirmed its return to PLASA 2025. As the company prepares for a busy season, the timing of this year’s show coincides with a significant period of investment in new equipment, aimed at strengthening its core departments and enhancing production capabilities across the board.

Exhibiting at stand R-A05, Pearce Hire invites visitors to learn more about its latest acquisitions. These investments are designed to support a wide range of event types, from festivals and exhibitions to corporate and live productions, with improved solutions across audio, lighting, power distribution and staging. With a continued focus on sustainability and energy efficiency, the new additions are tailored to meet the growing demand for high performing and envi

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06 May 2025

UK - Area Four Industries Direct UK, provider of structural solutions and trussing systems for the entertainment, events, and motorsport industries, has announced the appointment of Alistair J. Frary as its new director of motorsport.

With over two decades of experience in motorsport engineering and live event infrastructure, Alistair brings a combination of technical expertise, operational leadership, and industry insight to the role. His appointment marks a significant step in Area Four Industries Direct UK’s ongoing commitment to innovation and excellence within the motorsport sector.

Alistair J. Frary has a distinguished track record working across premier motorsport series, including Formula 1, WEC, and touring cars, where he has led the delivery of bespoke structures, paddock solutions, and event infrastructure. In his new role, he will overs

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29 April 2025

UK - For the first time, PLASA Focus Leeds has launched an official mobile app, now available to download on both Apple and Android devices. Introduced following the success of the PLASA Show London app in 2024, which saw strong uptake among visitors, the new app is designed to maximise engagement and efficiency at the 2025 show.

Taking place at the Royal Armouries, Leeds on 13–14 May 2025, the event will once again welcome thousands of professionals working across live events, AV, lighting, audio, rigging, staging and more. The PLASA Focus Leeds app serves as a comprehensive, digital companion for navigating the show, enabling you to:

 - Access and print visitor badges directly from the app

 - Browse a full exhibitor and product list in advance

 - View the detailed seminar and workshop schedule

 - Use the inter

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29 April 2025

UK - Unusual Rigging is undertaking a pioneering sustainability initiative that aims to embed environmental and social sustainability across its operations and supply chain. With ambitions that extend beyond internal improvements, the project is designed to identify key areas for action aligned with recognised industry frameworks.

To deliver this work, Unusual is working with Hope Solutions, a leading sustainability consultancy operating at the intersection of climate science and live events. Known for their work with clients including Coldplay, Netflix and Live Nation, Hope Solutions brings deep expertise in carbon measurement, stakeholder engagement, and long-term sustainability planning.

The project is being led internally by managing director Tom Harper - who holds a Masters in the Circular Economy MBA - and supported by facilities and resource m

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24 April 2025

UK - IPS (Impact Production Services), specialist supplier in the delivery of staging and structures, technical production, and equipment hire to the events industry has announced that its new, purpose-built warehouse in Milton Keynes is now officially open.

This opening marks a significant milestone in the company’s continued growth journey and represents the realisation of a vision first announced in February. The new facility, located just a mile from the existing site, is now fully operational and already playing a key role in supporting IPS’s expanding operations across the UK and beyond.

“Opening this new facility has been long awaited, and we’re absolutely thrilled to see the warehouse up and running,” said James Mason, founder of IPS. “This is a major investment in the future of IPS, and as we prepare for the summer, we’re excit

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24 April 2025

UK - The Human League’s Generations arena tour kicked off its UK leg in December 2024. By the band’s third show they’d already elicited a five-star review from the Guardian, who described the show as “An evening of immaculate electro pop, delivered with grace, precision, and elation”.

Behind the scenes, seasoned production manager Sarah Hollis was at the helm. Hollis has been production managing tours since the late 90s and has worked with The Human League since their 2008, Steel City tour. “I was also the stage manager on that tour,” she explained, “which was a mixture of arenas, theatres and a couple of academies (and not in the order you’d like!) so let’s say it kept me on my toes, and I’ve been working with the band ever since.”

Emmy Award winning designer, Rob Sinclair, was asked by the band’s

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23 April 2025

South Africa - After six years off the calendar, Mediatech Africa is back. The original and largest trade show for AV, broadcast, and live event tech on the continent returns from 3 - 5 June 2026 at the Johannesburg Expo Centre (Nasrec) – and it's bringing the industry back together to mark 25 years since the first show in 2001.

Mediatech Africa has been a cornerstone of the continent’s AV and broadcast industry since day one. More than just an expo, it’s a space for the industry to connect, share ideas, and stay in step with the latest tech. Its legacy is built on collaboration, community, and innovation – drawing top brands, global suppliers, and the passionate people who keep the industry moving forward.

Simon Robinson, co-owner of Mediatech, recalls: “Our first show was in 2001 at the Sandton Convention Centre. It was small, focused mos

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22 April 2025

USA/Europe - Clair Global is expanding its global footprint by welcoming the Ampco Flashlight Group to the team. This partnership strengthens Clair's European presence and “enhances both companies' ability to deliver seamless, high-calibre experiences worldwide”.

Ampco Flashlight Group with its sister companies have been an established name in professional audio, lighting, rigging and motion for decades. The team delivers high-profile projects in live entertainment, theatre, broadcast, and events – both in the Netherlands and internationally. That focus remains unchanged. Clients will continue to work with the same people, receive the same level of service, and rely on the same name – now with the added strength of expanded access to key resources, technology, and expertise in more locations worldwide.

"This feels like a very natural step," s

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09 April 2025

UK - Unusual Rigging returned to the Royal Albert Hall for the 2025 Olivier Awards on Sunday 6 April, bringing its expertise and large-scale technical capability to one of British theatre’s biggest nights. No stranger to either the venue or the event, Unusual was tasked with delivering the full scope of rigging and draughting requirements for this year’s spectacular ceremony – supporting an ambitious production with sustainable, reusable rigging infrastructure.

“We were brought on to handle all the rigging and draughting requirements for the show,” said Luke MacBride, design engineer at Unusual Rigging. “Our scope included the design and installation of a mother truss to support lighting equipment, scenery, and the automated presentation screen. We also supplied trussing for drapery, including a custom-fabricated curved truss for the red drape, a