Robe - LEADERBOARD - Feb 2025

Rigging / Staging

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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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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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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

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International - The latest issue of LSi is out now, and can be read online for free here.

Inside our new April issue, Cat Strom catches up with the crew behind Kylie’s Tension tour at Sydney’s Qudos Bank Arena, finding a screen-heavy production that blends nostalgia with modern flair.

Also this month, Rob Halliday explores the new Sadler’s Wells East dance theatre in Stratford. Plus, Phil Ward visits London jazz club Ronnie Scott’s to hear its new sound system; Rachel Terzian charts the evolution of Slovakia’s SRS Group; and Claire Beeson meets the visionaries behind Clean Bandit’s recent London Palladium show.

We also explore the new sound and lighting

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The Netherlands - PSRIG has announced the launch of PSRIG B.V., its new sales branch near Amsterdam.

“The Netherlands will play an important role in our company’s future growth. This new branch enables us to serve a highly strategic economic and geographic area while establishing a vital hub for more efficient logistics. We’re excited to bring our well-proven mechanical solutions and industry know-how closer to our customers, reinforcing our commitment to delivering top-tier service and hands-on technical expertise to help our clients achieve their ambitious goals,” says Aart Gigengack, CEO and co-founder of PSRIG.

Under the leadership of managing director Marc Lubberts, the Amsterdam adjacent office will serve as a central hub for local client activities. In addition to office and warehouse spaces, the company is developing a dedicated showr

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Europe - TMB has announced the addition of Nick Berenok to the TMB customer development team for the European, Middle Eastern, and African (EMEA) region.

Based in Nice, France, Berenok brings over 20 years of experience in entertainment technology, international sales, and software development. He has held key roles at Ayrton and Light Converse, where he successfully combined technical expertise with strategic business development across global markets. Fluent in English, Ukrainian, and Russian, and conversational in French, Berenok is known for building strong relationships across global markets. His appointment marks a strategic expansion of TMB’s reach and commitment to delivering trusted support and innovative solutions throughout Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.

“I'm really excited to be joining TMB. TMB has been the backbone of Rock &am

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Europe - Plusfortyfive ApS is a new venture launched by the Generator Group in Denmark whose businesses and brands also include event and show technical production specialist VIGSØ.eu, and automation solutions manufacturer Motor Stage Automation.

The Danish-headquartered operation is headed by Kenneth Jakobsen – who brings 20 years of industry experience – and will be distributing and supporting several premium brands throughout the Scandinavian region.

The company hits the ground running with two German brands onboard, GLP (German Lighting Products) and HOF whose portfolio includes quality trussing, stage and rigging products.

Jakobsen and his team will grow the business organically through establishing a series of additional regional offices and partnerships. This will start in Norway and Sweden in addition to Denmark, with more announ

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UK - Broadweigh has launched the Wireless Handheld Display Standard (BW-HK-S), a new tool for riggers and technicians working in the high-pressure world of live production. Fully compatible with Broadweigh’s trusted wireless ecosystem, the BW-HK-S delivers instant, on-the-ground access to real-time load and environmental data - keeping crews connected to what matters most, when it matters most.

Designed with the challenges of arenas, festivals, and theatres in mind, the device can receive live data from up to 12 wireless load cells or anemometers at once. Housed in a rugged IP67-rated enclosure with a high-grip finish, it’s ready for the toughest working conditions - whether you’re crawling through a grid in a dark theatre or working FOH at a stadium show.

Tom Lilly, product manager at Broadweigh, said: “The BW-HK-S enhances our system by giv

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South Africa - For Namibian-based technical supply company, dB Audio, the past two decades have been all about training, growth, and getting even better at what they do.

Over the years, dB Audio has sent over 15 teams to DWR Distribution in South Africa for International Rigging and Basic Rigging courses, the most recent training having taken place earlier this year and presented by Ruud de Deugd of T&E Support. This is over and above attending workshops like Absen Certified Engineer training, roadshows, and open days that keep their crew sharp and ready to tackle anything.

Founded in 2004 by David Benade and Manu Jacobs, the company has always been about staying ahead of the game. “I can still remember the old days in 2004 like it was yesterday,” says Manu. “Back then I was excited, it was all about analogue gear, and suddenly there was di

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Germany - On 19 and 20 March 2025, LEaT X 25 turned the Ofenwerk Nuremberg into a central meeting place for the event technology industry. With over 1,000 participants, over 100 brands and a mix of networking and inspiration, the event was a complete success, say the organisers.

“The response to LEaT X 25 was overwhelming. The combination of an exclusive setting, a targeted trade audience and first-class exhibitors struck a chord with the industry,” says John Weltersbach, head of event operations at LEaT and new to the team since the beginning of the year.

The 38 exhibitors at LEaT X 25 offered visitors an opportunity to exchange ideas directly with leading industry representatives, establish new business relationships and discuss current market developments. The informal atmosphere of the LEaT X formats makes it possible to establish valuable co

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South Africa - StageOne has announced its appointment as the official South African distributor for DJ Power stage effects equipment. The distribution deal was finalised during ISE 2025 in Barcelona this past February.

DJ Power is known for its stage effects, including fog machines, flame effects, and confetti solutions, all backed by innovative technology and over 200 international patents. Adding DJ Power to StageOne’s portfolio enhances the company’s ability to offer comprehensive and affordable solutions for live events, concerts, and installations across South Africa.

Peter Berry, managing owner of StageOne, comments: "DJ Power's reputation for reliability and innovation is impressive, and their product range fills a gap in the market for high-quality yet affordable stage effects. We’re thrilled to bring these solutions to South Africa and

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USA - A ‘groundbreaking entertainment destination’ is set to debut in late 2025. The journey to VAI Resort’s highly anticipated opening night is already underway, with TAIT engineers actively transforming the vision into reality at the Glendale, AZ resort through the cutting-edge infrastructure of the VAI Amphitheatre.

This venue is now open for artist bookings. Designed with the artist’s experience at its core, VAI’s amphitheatre stage – engineered by the live entertainment innovation pioneers at TAIT – ensures that every artist’s needs are met to the highest standard.

Audiences can look forward to ‘an unparalleled connection to live entertainment’, with sweeping views of the stage from the comfort of their luxury hotel suites. Artists will experience a venue built specifically for A-list performances, complete with state-of-the-

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Czech Republic - Professionals around the world rely on TAF’s Pre-Rig Truss 1 & 2 for convenient storage, trouble-free transport, and reliable support of their moving heads and other fixtures. Both models feature an open bottom section for hanging larger fixtures and are stackable for optimising space during storage and transport. Trouble-free attachment of a dolly provides you with convenient wheeled transfer to/from storage, truck, and event.

Their versatile fork connection system, which comes with a connection kit as standard, provides a range of connection and orientation options:

- Pre-Rig Truss 1 forks can be rotated for vertical or horizontal orientation.

- Pre-Rig Truss 2 forks can be extended up to 65mm (2.55") and allow for 0°-12° fork angles, without the need for corners or additional accessories.

Learn more here

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Czech Republic - TAF’s new PA Vertical Tower 1 (PAV1) is trusted by the world’s leading rental companies and event professionals who need to safely hang big, heavy line arrays at their important large-scale events.

The PAV1 features a specially designed top section with hanging points and utilises TAF’s heavy-duty HT44 or TT44 truss segments in its construction. It will support loads up to 1,000kg (2,205 lbs) at heights up to 8m (26.2ft). To ensure extreme stability, its robust base accepts ballast up to 2,000kg (4,410 lbs) and comes with four height adjustable spindles for optimising horizontal levelling on uneven ground.

The versatile design of the PAV1 also allows it to serve as a standalone tower for stages or provide stable support for LED walls.

TAF PAV1 features:

  • 1,000kg (2,205 lbs) max. loading
  • 8m (26.2f

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UK - Adlib returned to the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Hall stage earlier this month for the largest annual music industry careers event for young people in the North of England. The team engaged with attendees to discuss career paths and showcase the inspiring roles available in the live events industry.

Over 700 people attended the 2025 Liverpool Philharmonic Music Industry Careers Fest, which was delivered in partnership with Universal Music, Spotify, UK Music, PLASA, LIPA, Revere Arts, and LIMF Academy.

Adlib has a long-standing tradition of supporting the next generation of talent through regular open days at Adlib HQ, as well as providing work experience, apprenticeship opportunities, and participation in Early Careers events.

Lisa Mitchell, training and development, Adlib comments: "We’ve been delighted to support the Liverpool Phil

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UK - Glyndebourne opera house in Sussex is renowned for its annual summer festival, which attracts over 150,000 visitors, and its auditorium combines operatic tradition with cutting-edge production technology. Behind the scenes, seamless communication is critical to delivering world-class performances, and Glyndebourne recently upgraded its systems to include PunQtum’s IP-based communication solutions. This integration has revolutionised the way teams collaborate across the venue.

"Our communication system serves all production departments, from followspots to automation, wardrobe, and chaperones,” explains Jonathan Moss, head of sound and video at Glyndebourne. “We needed a mix of products that could address all user needs while enhancing operational flexibility and future-proofing our technical infrastructure. PunQtum provides advanced features and s

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International - The latest issue of LSi is out now, and can be read online for free here.

Inside our new March issue, you’ll find Rob Halliday’s in-depth production report on Cirque du Soleil’s gravity-defying Corteo show, as it visits the Royal Albert Hall.

Plus, we bring you our bumper round-up of news from last month’s ISE, Barcelona and expected highlights from next month’s Prolight + Sound, Frankfurt.

Meanwhile, Steve Moles visits the new Design & Digital Arts building at Nottingham Trent University; Phil Ward learns how SSL’s System T is assisting with Sonosphere’s livestreaming projects; and Louise Stickland meets the largely Ukrainian crew behi

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UK - The Association of British Theatre Technicians has announced the launch of its one-day Automation Foundation CPD Course and ABTT Silver Award for Theatre Automation Technicians, adding to its already diverse training programme.

The new one-day ABTT Automation Foundation CPD is an entry-level course designed and created to introduce attendees to this sector of the industry, giving them an understanding of the key components and applications for automation within theatre and live events, as well as an understanding of how automation teams operate.

This continuous professional development (CPD) course gives the candidate something to show future employers or training providers, demonstrating that they have invested time and know the rudimentary basics of automation.

It will also enable attendees to progress on to the ABTT Silver Award for T

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South Africa - DWR Distribution hosted the much-anticipated annual International Rigging Course from 27 January to 1 February, presented by Ruud de Deugd, founder of T&E Support. As the only training programme of its kind in the country, the course drew delegates from across South Africa, Namibia, Ghana, Zambia, and Mauritius, ranging from novices to experienced professionals.

Ruud, renowned for leading these training sessions globally, provided insights into the rigging industry. Over six days, participants covered vital topics such as safety protocols, maintenance practices, lifting materials, force calculations, and load tables. Attendees were expected to have a solid understanding of mathematics, as the training blended practical skills with technical theory.

“It feels like the family is back together,” Ruud shared upon his return to Sout

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UK - Based on the box office hits of Magic Mike and Magic Mike XXL, Magic Mike Live! is a 360-degree dance and acrobatic spectacular. Conceived by the film’s original star Channing Tatum, the show takes place at London’s Hippodrome Casino and features heart-racing dance routines that take place in front of, above and around the audience.

Due to the immersive nature of the performance, the show has to ensure that its performers are fully safe at all times. As such, they asked Solutions On Stage to design, manufacture and test bespoke steelwork for a specific track used throughout the show, which had to meet the necessary requirements for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

Solutions On Stage’s technical director Darren Williams comments: “A request came in from the technical team for us to inspect the suspension of

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UK - Martin Audio, along with sister brands, Optimal Audio, TiMax, Linea Research and OutBoard, are again joining forces for their open day programme – showing the best of what the Focusrite Pro brands have to offer.

This will take place over three days, from 11-13 March. However, such is the momentum of these twice-a-year networking and demonstration events that the first day is already fully booked.

Martin Audio will be running separate stage monitor, point source, constant curvature and line array demonstrations (with selective on-demand listening sessions). In-depth training will be provided for DISPLAY and VU-NET software.

TiMax will showcase immersive audio solutions across TiMax panLab, TiMax SoundHub and TiMax Tracker.

Optimal Audio will provide an engaging multi-zone commercial audio demonstration, including new products, a

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UK - Production Futures has announced that its next On Tour event will take place at the AO Arena, Manchester on Monday 28 April. The venue is one of the largest of its kind in the UK, and will host a Production Futures event for the second time, following the success of last year’s arena debut.

Set to attract a wide range of young people from across North-West England and beyond, this free-of-charge event will promote employability, transferable skills, diversity, free training, networking, and will present paid work opportunities to newcomers across the live event and broadcast production industry.

Manufacturers, supply and production companies, venues and distributors will have representatives present at the event to provide advice, information and insights, and discuss specific job and training opportunities. Production Futures also wo

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Europe - HOF has a new partner in Iceland – Exton will be the official distributor for HOF products. “With this partnership, we have a strong player at our side to push HOF in Iceland,” says Edwin Duivelaar, export and sales manager at HOF.

Exton's sales team will ensure that HOF optimally complements and supports the existing brands in the Exton portfolio. Exton's rental department in particular has a wealth of experience and offers customised solutions for the event industry – with high-quality equipment and technology for events of all kinds.

In addition, Exton will enable HOF to be even better positioned in the area of installations, from event venues and exhibition centres to private and commercial buildings.

Sigurjón Sigurðsson, CEO at Exton, comments: “We appreciate HOF's innovative trussing systems, which offer a perfect s

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UK - Unusual Rigging has played a pivotal role in bringing Cameron Mackintosh’s new production of Oliver! to the Gielgud Theatre in London’s West End.

Tom Lee, senior production manager, commented: “We needed to work with a team that could transform the space and overcome some rigging challenges. Moving the production from Chichester to the Gielgud required careful planning and adaptation. The Unusual team, led by design engineer Emily Egleton, had to contend with a constantly evolving brief which involved recreating some elements of the show in a completely different space.”

With Egleton at the helm, the team needed to devise a way of supporting the production’s large and heavy set pieces, including an LED screen that could not be suspended from wires due to a projection surface above, and also needed to be easily movable. “The

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