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2024 Seminars

Tim Routlidge speaking at a seminar at plasa show

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The PLASA Show 2024 programme is proudly sponsored by:

Vectorworks

Seminar Theatre 1: Lighting + Production
    • Production
    Seminar Theatre 1: Lighting + Production
    An Open System for Theatre Automation

    Automation systems for different suppliers cannot connect, and work together. This situation is different to any other parts of the industry (lighting, sound, video), where there are common standards that allow interconnectivity between equipment for different manufacturers. 

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    • Lighting
    Seminar Theatre 1: Lighting + Production
    Buzzing: What it Takes to Make a Drone Show With Impact

    Celestial's Head of Production JP shares what it takes to get things off the ground for large-scale drone shows.

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    • Lighting
    Seminar Theatre 1: Lighting + Production
    The Balance of Power

    This session looks at the things to consider when plugging in your new LED fixtures, and why thinking about your power control infrastructure now could just help to save your show.

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    • Audio
    • AV
    • Business
    • Industry Issues
    • Lighting
    • Production
    • Rigging
    Seminar Theatre 1: Lighting + Production
    The Making of Live Events: Introducing the Industry to the Next Generation

    Join Adlib for the premiere of their brand-new groundbreaking film "The Making of Live Events”. This isn't just another career video - it's the result of established industry organisations recognising the need to directly inspire the next generation...

    FIND OUT MORE

    • Lighting
    • Production
    Seminar Theatre 1: Lighting + Production
    Shining a Light on Cruise

    This seminar aims to shine a light on the multibillion-pound cruise industry, looking specifically how lighting design and the use of the latest technology is transforming not just the quality of entertainment at sea, but the transformative effects on the creative process and production schedules.

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Seminar Theatre 2: Audio + AV
    • Lighting
    Seminar Theatre 2: Audio + AV
    The Value of Wysiwyg in Lighting Design: Beyond Direct ROI

    Discover the multifaceted value of Wysiwyg in lighting design beyond direct ROI. This session explores how Wysiwyg enhances precision, creativity, and client satisfaction, ultimately driving long-term success through improved efficiency, risk reduction, and stronger client relationships.

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    • Sustainability
    • Audio
    • Production
    Seminar Theatre 2: Audio + AV
    The Sustain Pedal: Can We Make Events Greener?

    Sustainable factories is one thing, but what happens to the kit on the road? We hear from dedicated sustainability experts on how touring and events can reduce carbon footprint, and one leading manufacturer tells us how power amplification has a pivotal role to play.

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    • Audio
    • AV
    Seminar Theatre 2: Audio + AV
    Equipment Tracking & Technology: Which Solution is Best For You?

    This seminar will focus on the numerous technologies currently available to keep track of and log equipment, such as barcodes, RFID, NFC and geo-location tracking, and the advantages and disadvantages of each solution.

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    • Audio
    • Business
    • Production
    Seminar Theatre 2: Audio + AV
    Optimal Sound Control and Spatial Upmixing Software Create the Ultimate EDM Experience at Tomorrowland

    Creating an intimate club feeling with immersive sound inside a large tent at a premier festival like Tomorrowland requires innovative audio technology and design. HOLOPLOT relied on its unbeatable Sound Control to deliver an impactful listening experience at Tomorrowland’s Atmosphere stage...

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    • Wellbeing
    • Audio
    • Industry Issues
    Seminar Theatre 2: Audio + AV
    Advancements in Diversity: Where Are We Now?

    In this session ASDP board member Rosie Stroud and panellists will discuss what improvements have been made and what still needs to be done to increase diversity within theatre sound.

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    • Audio
    • AV
    Seminar Theatre 2: Audio + AV
    Spatial Audio: Diary of a Soundwave

    TiMax director Dave Haydon explores soundwave behaviour and spatial audio perception. He'll delve into some processes and techniques essential to producing impactful panoramic spatialisation and enveloping surround that results in a high calibre, full-saturation immersive audio experience.

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Seminar Theatre 3: Business + Industry Initiatives
    • Lighting
    Seminar Theatre 3: Business + Industry Initiatives
    Wireless DMX Control for the Entertainment Lighting Industry

    An overview of radio technology as it pertains to the entertainment lighting industry. Covering techniques, best practices, and equipment for setting up a reliable wireless DMX system.

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    • Business
    • Industry Issues
    • Product
    Seminar Theatre 3: Business + Industry Initiatives

    In this session, James Simpson summarises his Future Tech column from the last year of LSi (Light & Sound International). He will be covering future innovations including; colour-changing cars, nuclear batteries, Gaussian splatting and lenticular optics.

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    • Audio
    • AV
    • Business
    • Industry Issues
    • Lighting
    • Production
    • Rigging
    Seminar Theatre 3: Business + Industry Initiatives
    Industry Wide Apprenticeships and The Value They Bring

    This session will explore the Apprenticeships route as a successful pathway to enter the entertainment production industry. The panelists will discuss advantages to having this offering as a business and hear firsthand from apprentices themselves and how this route is working for them.

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    • Sustainability
    • Industry Issues
    Seminar Theatre 3: Business + Industry Initiatives
    Environmental Reports for Products

    Whilst our industry is enormously supportive of environmental issues, even a cursory examination shows that the vast majority of new products we use still make little effort to improve their environmental impact.

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    • Industry Issues
    • Lighting
    Seminar Theatre 3: Business + Industry Initiatives
    How to Maintain a Diverse Backstage

    Women In Live Music did an inquiry on the well-being backstage amongst women... join the discussion on how we can maintain more diversity backstage, as well as increase the number over time...

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Seminar Theatre 1: Lighting + Production
    • Lighting
    • Production
    Seminar Theatre 1: Lighting + Production
    From Plans to Pathways: Bringing Illuminated Trails to Life

    Join us for an enchanting seminar that will take you through problem-solving strategies and innovative approaches to bringing illuminated trails to life, powered by White Light (WL). 
     

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    • Health & Safety
    • Rigging
    Seminar Theatre 1: Lighting + Production
    Best Practice for the Stability of Temporary Structures

    Norbert Tripp explains the failure mechanisms of weight ballast on roof structures, what friction has to do with it, and what needs to be taken into account during execution in order to fully activate the applied ballast.

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    • Lighting
    Seminar Theatre 1: Lighting + Production
    How Light Affects Human Behaviour

    Combining scientific inquiry with creative expression, this masterclass explores the intricate interplay of light and emotion.

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    • Production
    Seminar Theatre 1: Lighting + Production
    Automating Glyndebourne Opera House

    Hear all about Glyndebourne Opera House's powerful new toolkit that allows the venue to continue producing the highest standards of operatic performance from the team that created it!

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    • Audio
    • Lighting
    • Production
    Seminar Theatre 1: Lighting + Production
    From Scrap to Spectacle: The Rise of The Dragonfly at Glastonbury 2024

    Join us for an exclusive seminar that delves into the captivating world of Arcadia, the iconic festival arena that has mesmerised audiences at Glastonbury Festival for over 15 years.

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    • Business
    • Industry Issues
    • Lighting
    Seminar Theatre 1: Lighting + Production
    Women In Entertainment Lighting Bingo

    The 'Women In Lighting' project led Light Collective to the curation of a book: Women in Entertainment Lighting. Light Collective will share the reasons for creating the book and detail the contributors who have made it possible in a bingo format!

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    • Lighting
    Seminar Theatre 1: Lighting + Production

    In this session we'll be chatting to some of the industry's leading programmers to find out how they do what they do. The open forum format will give you the chance to ask your questions and pick their brains and hear it from the professionals.

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Seminar Theatre 2: Audio + AV
    • Business
    • Industry Issues
    Seminar Theatre 2: Audio + AV
    PLASA Business Breakfast

    PLASA members are invited to PLASA's Business Breakfast to discuss sustainability and carbon reduction. 

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    • Wellbeing
    • Audio
    • Business
    • Health & Safety
    • Industry Issues
    • Production
    Seminar Theatre 2: Audio + AV
    What is HELA? Championing Safe Listening at Music Events!

    HELA, (Healthy Ears, Limited Annoyance) came out of a discussion between a group of industry professionals, some of whom were also academics, working to support the World Health Organisations ‘Make Listening Safe’ initiative. Come and join the discussion and find out how you can be, and should be involved.

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    • Audio
    • AV
    • Production
    Seminar Theatre 2: Audio + AV
    Heritage Pathways Live: Is the Live Sound Experience really better in 2024 than it was in 1974?

    The origins of the concert PA and touring industry will be discussed and debated by several of the pioneers with a younger perspective looking at the legacy of some of the milestone breakthroughs leading up to today’s largely software-driven world...

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    • AV
    • Business
    • Industry Issues
    • Production
    Seminar Theatre 2: Audio + AV

    Following the acquisition of TiMax by Focusrite, and of Flux::Immersive by JBL, the spatial audio market is hotting up with major loudspeaker brands (Focusrite also owns Martin Audio) investing heavily in market-leading solutions. What are the advantages of linking such brands together, and how does it work in each case? And is this how the business case will be won for the format tipped by many to challenge stereo/LCR in every market?

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    • Audio
    Seminar Theatre 2: Audio + AV
    In Conversation: Pioneer of Modern Sound Design, Martin Levan and “Broadway’s King of Pop” Gareth Owen discuss Theatre Sound

    Martin Levan single-handedly pioneered many of the ideas, concepts and methodologies used in today's musical theatre sound designs. Gareth Owen regularly takes these ideas and pushes the technology (and the very definition of theatre sound) to the bleeding edge...

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    • Audio
    • AV
    Seminar Theatre 2: Audio + AV
    “Quiet Please” “Game, Set, Patch”: Making Tennis Louder

    Brew discusses the equipment, systems and workflows that are deployed at the All England Lawn Tennis Club and how it is used to deliver The Championships Wimbledon, as well as the year round activities.

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    • Audio
    • AV
    Seminar Theatre 2: Audio + AV
    The Audio Visual Arts: Tate and the Evolving Technology Landscape

    As artists develop their practice to encompass the wide range of technologies available and emerging, so must an institution like Tate evolve to meet the challenges of presenting these works to our audiences.

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Seminar Theatre 3: Business + Industry Initiatives
    • Wellbeing
    • Industry Issues
    Seminar Theatre 3: Business + Industry Initiatives
    Prioritise Mental Health and Well-Being in the Workplace with ABTT “W” Series Guidance – have you implemented them yet?

    Are you prioritising mental health and wellbeing in your workplace? It's time to consider implementing the ABTT 'W' Series Guidance.

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    • Business
    • Industry Issues
    Seminar Theatre 3: Business + Industry Initiatives
    New Eco-Design Rules: Digital Product Passports - What Does This Mean for Electronic and Electrical Manufacturers trading in the EU?

    This seminar offers a concise introduction to the EU Digital Product Passport (DPP), focusing on its significance, functionality, and practical steps for implementation ahead of the 2027 mandate.

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    • Audio
    • AV
    • Business
    • Industry Issues
    • Lighting
    • Production
    • Rigging
    Seminar Theatre 3: Business + Industry Initiatives
    The Making of Live Events: Introducing the Industry to the Next Generation

    The live events sector has amazing opportunities, but most people don't know it. That's about to change.
     
    We're showcasing "The Making of Live Events”, a groundbreaking film produced by Adlib, a leading company in the industry. This isn't just another career video - it's the result of established industry organisations recognising the need to directly inspire the next generation.

    FIND OUT MORE
     

    • Business
    • Industry Issues
    Seminar Theatre 3: Business + Industry Initiatives
    Cybersecurity in Entertainment Technology

    Cybersecurity in Entertainment Technology has become an urgent and mainstream topic. How should the industry react?

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    • Lighting
    Seminar Theatre 3: Business + Industry Initiatives
    Tools for Tech

    This session will look at how video tools - including Stamp and VOR - help to make lighting a fast-paced show much less stressful.

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    • Health & Safety
    Seminar Theatre 3: Business + Industry Initiatives
    Setting the Scene - Priorities for Health and Safety in 2024

    Join HSE to discuss the focus of the Regulator in 2024 and beyond. This seminar will also explore why good health is as important as good safety management.

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  1. Seminar Theatre 3: Business + Industry Initiatives
    Join The Power of Events for an insightful and inspiring panel discussion in which key industry leaders come together to share their visions for the future of the UK events industry. As the sector rebounds from unprecedented challenges, this discussion will focus on the bold and innovative ambitions that will shape the next chapter of events across the UK.
     
    Our panel of key industry leaders, each representing different facets of the events landscape from organisers to supply chain to venues, will explore the opportunities ahead. They will discuss how the industry can harness new technologies, embrace sustainability, and foster inclusivity, all while continuing to create unforgettable experiences. From large-scale festivals to intimate corporate gatherings, this session will delve into the strategies and innovations that can elevate the UK's standing as a global leader in the events space.
     
    Don't miss the chance to hear from some of the most forward-thinking minds in the industry as they share their hopes, dreams, and actionable ideas for a vibrant and resilient future. This panel is a must-attend for anyone invested in the events industry’s growth and success.
Seminar Theatre 1: Lighting + Production
    • Production
    • Rigging
    Seminar Theatre 1: Lighting + Production
    Bigger Stage, Bigger Problems - How to Combine Structural Engineering with Practical Handling

    This seminar will be led by Structural Engineer Norbert Tripp, alongside Technician Arne Svendsen and will focus on how practical stage design can improve capacity and ultimately deliver a smarter, more efficient, and sustainable end result.

    Find out more

    • Wellbeing
    • Business
    • Industry Issues
    Seminar Theatre 1: Lighting + Production

    The panel, from industry charities and support groups, will lead four groups of attendees for a more personalised interaction, with the opportunity to share experiences and ask questions about what support and information is available.

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Seminar Theatre 2: Audio + AV
    • AV
    • Production
    Seminar Theatre 2: Audio + AV

    Live streaming has become a vital element to connect with audiences in different and innovative ways. It is a powerful way to reach a wider audience, enhance your marketing mix and connect with potential leads. Find out from our panel of experts how Live Streaming can enhance Live Events in a unique way.

    FIND OUT MORE

    • Audio
    Seminar Theatre 2: Audio + AV
    Challenges and Key Success Factors in Sports Arenas Sound Systems

    This seminar will describe the evolution of these expectations and design trends, the challenges and the key success factors for an optimal sound experience, including acoustics, electroacoustics, electronics, safety standards, specifications, performances, and future perspectives.

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    • Audio
    • AV
    • Business
    • Industry Issues
    • Lighting
    • Production
    • Rigging
    Seminar Theatre 2: Audio + AV
    The Making of Live Events: Introducing the Industry to the Next Generation

    Join Adlib for the premiere of their brand-new groundbreaking film "The Making of Live Events”. This isn't just another career video - it's the result of established industry organisations recognising the need to directly inspire the next generation...

    FIND OUT MORE

     

    • Audio
    Seminar Theatre 2: Audio + AV

    Induction loop, Wifi, Infra-red, Radio – there’s a bewildering array of technologies to make assistive listening work for the modern venue, and nearly every venue has a different approach.

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    • Production
    Seminar Theatre 2: Audio + AV
    A New Paradigm for Show Control

    Show control can be found in live performances, theme-park shows, museums, kinetic art, and anywhere where a story is presented to an audience (or multiple audiences in the case of parades or rides). Show control is the automated coordination of technical elements in entertainment.

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Seminar Theatre 3: Business + Industry Initiatives
    • Wellbeing
    • Business
    • Industry Issues
    Seminar Theatre 3: Business + Industry Initiatives
    Unionise! Improving Pay and Conditions in Live Events

    Bectu's Live Events Network discusses the rate guidance union members issued specifically to roles within live events and how they have started to see rates (and the discussion around them) improve.

    Find out more

    • Audio
    • AV
    • Business
    • Health & Safety
    • Lighting
    • Product
    • Production
    Seminar Theatre 3: Business + Industry Initiatives

    The next amendment of the BS 7671 is now out for public comment and will be during the show, so come and find out what proposed changes will affect us, including power over ethernet, wiring in escape routes, energy efficiency and more. Find out how to comment on the changes yourself and also what really happens to all the comments received.

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    • Sustainability
    • Business
    Seminar Theatre 3: Business + Industry Initiatives
    Aiming for Full Circularity in Construction

    This session aims to explore the concept of a circular economy within the construction industry through a detailed case study of Unusual Rigging's newly built HQ and Research Centre.

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    • Audio
    • Business
    • Industry Issues
    • Lighting
    • Production
    • Rigging
    Seminar Theatre 3: Business + Industry Initiatives
    As an industry, we specialise in the spectacular and creating art, whether that be immersing people in soundscapes, creating shows that imprint themselves on the visual memory or developing emotions with theatrical performances. We rely totally on engineering to achieve all of this as without it, the artistic visions cannot be realised. So what inspires the engineering creators of our industry? Come and join this discussion between industry technology innovators, including previous Gottelier Award winners and one of this year's nominees. The Gottelier Award is presented annually in the spirit of Tony Gottelier, himself a respected innovator in lighting.
    • Business
    • Industry Issues
    • Production
    Seminar Theatre 3: Business + Industry Initiatives

    Sustainability is No Longer a Voluntary Task: The Growing Demand for ESG Data from Financial Institutions and Insurance Companies, Financial institutions and insurance companies increasingly require their clients to provide data on their contributions to climate neutrality and sustainability...

    FIND OUT MORE

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