Rigging / Staging

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16 June 2025

UK - On 4 June, the Association of British Theatre Technicians hosted its Annual Awards after a busy first day of the ABTT Theatre Show at Alexandra Palace, London. This event is a cornerstone of the ABTT, dedicated to honouring outstanding contributions to the theatre and live events sector and recognises the achievements of those who are shaping the future of the industry.

Ted Moore, director at sponsors TAIT, said of the Awards: “TAIT is 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 five Product Awards recognise the achievements of products which are substantially new to the market during the last 12 months and are available now for purchase, immediate

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09 June 2025

UK - PLASA Show 2025 is now open for free registrations. This September, the UK's market-leading trade event for live entertainment technology will set the stage for breakthrough products, big ideas, and invaluable industry connections. Celebrate entertainment technology and the people behind it at PLASA Show, returning to its home at Olympia, London from 7–9 September 2025.

Drawing 7,500+ professionals from across the global industry, the show offers unrivalled access to 250+ leading brands, an expert-led seminar programme, and hands-on experiences with next-generation technology.

Headline sponsored by Robe, PLASA Show 2025 features an expanded show floor filled with world-class manufacturers, distributors and service providers. Attendees can explore the latest tools and technologies for lighting, audio, AV, staging and rigging – all under one r

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09 June 2025

UK - IPS (Impact Production Services) has announced the launch of its new website (www.ips.co.uk), marking the next major step in its ongoing work to enhance customer experience and improve operational efficiency. The launch follows the recent opening of IPS’s new warehouse in Milton Keynes, a major physical upgrade now mirrored by this significant digital development.

The new website represents a substantial improvement on the long serving platform that supported IPS through many years of growth. As user needs have evolved and the scale of operations expanded, the redesign was driven by the goal of creating a modern, intuitive, and transparent digital experience that better reflects IPS’s service-led approach.

Built with functionality and accessibility at its core, the refreshed site features a fully mobile responsive interface, enhanced ai powe

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09 June 2025

USA - Global design and BIM software provider Vectorworks, part of the Nemetschek Group, has announced the availability of its AI Assistant (Preview), an innovative new tool designed to give users instant and accurate answers to their Vectorworks-related questions.

As a preview feature in the release of Vectorworks 2025 Update 5, the AI Assistant (Preview) marks the first phase of integrating AI learning technology into Vectorworks software, with the long-term goal of providing more intelligent, personalised, and time-saving solutions to designers.

Available through the Help menu and the Vectorworks Home Screen, the built-in AI assistant is designed to give customers quick, context-aware answers to their questions, allowing them to stay focused on their creative work. Whether users need to learn new features or simply seek guidance, the AI Assistant

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05 June 2025

UK - Adlib has confirmed the completion of the supply and installation of the stage engineering systems for the Citizens Theatre in Glasgow, which is due to reopen in August 2025, with a full season programme launching in September 2025.

The Adlib team has been working in partnership with architectural practice Bennetts Associates, specialist technical design consultancy Theatreplan, and Kier Construction on the new building, which is set to be a vibrant hub at the heart of the Gorbals community.

This ambitious project is the first comprehensive redevelopment of the building since it began life as a working theatre in 1878. The goal has been to ensure that the Citizens Theatre is accessible to everyone, while retaining its distinct Victorian features.

The technical infrastructure has been designed to support more performances than ever before

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05 June 2025

UK - Chase and Status headed out on their ambitious live tour across some of the UK’s biggest arenas with a ROE video screen and MoveKet automation package from PRG UK.

After the release of 2024’s Backbone catapulted Chase and Status back into the cultural zeitgeist, the highly anticipated UK tour has seen the duo go from strength to strength. Bringing a high-energy rave to arenas this size requires something special for the production.

At the Co-op Live in Manchester, the clear centre piece of the stage is the unusual ‘Letterbox’ LED upstage screen, supported by MoveKet automation to reveal the band as the show kicks off and create dynamic movement throughout the set. ROE Vanish V8T panels were used to build the 27m wide x 4m deep structure, chosen for the strong colour depth, and the 50% transparency means the lighting can be integ

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04 June 2025

UK - Event production company SEL Live launched the 2025 festival season in style, returning with the 2025 edition of Land Beyond Festival, which descended onto Brighton’s beachfront from 2-4 May.

SEL Live, which rebranded from Sussex Events earlier this year, delivered full technical production, staging and structures for three stages at the popular south coast electronic dance music festival, which was themed around the Vacant Planet.

The team at SEL Live brought their expertise to the fore with show-stopping production design and execution. In a festival known for its immersive experiences and bold aesthetics, SEL Live ensured the 2025 edition set new standards, deploying their full inventory of A4I brands, including Milos, EXE Technology and Xstage, which powered their trusted structure and rigging solutions from Area Four Ind

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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