PLASA: London

PLASA returns to London for 2015 at the ExCeL centre, introducing a number of new features and offerings to the programme.

Part of the new programme is PLASA’s sector specific seminar offering, which will see an increase from two to five theatres. Additionally, existing demo spaces are being built upon; key networking spaces, such as the show bar and zones in the sector hubs, are being reintroduced; and the show will open late on its second day.

“PLASA 2015 has a progressive new approach, as we focus on five major sectors of the live entertainment technology world: Lighting, Audio, Stage, AV and Live Broadcast,” explained Christopher Toulmin, director of events division at PLASA. “Each sector is individually supported by manufacturer led content, as well as PLASA’s own industry leading Professional Development Programme.”

This approach comes in part from PLASA’s ‘Focus’ model, which is being applied to the London show for the first time and will see these sector specific hubs occupying the show floor, making navigation easy for visitors and increasing footfall for exhibitors.

“The different sectors will feature hands-on sessions and networking opportunities with like-minded exhibitors and visitors,” Toulmin continued. “In addition to this, we are creating some unique large-scale demonstration facilities immediately adjacent to the main show floor, where key exhibitors will be able to show and demonstrate their products to best effect and in the ideal environment."

Topics for the seminars will include:

• The basics of acoustics
• A how-to guide for monitoring
• Digital console architecture and future spectrum for audio
• Conventional light sources to LED
• Architectural lighting and benefits of networked lighting systems for lighting
• Projection mapping workshops and content revolution

Industry issues ranging from the development of apprenticeships for live event technicians to freelancers’ rates of pay will also feature, as will sessions from a wide cross-section of industry organisations, including BECTU, ASD, ISCE, IOA, IPS, Soulsound, APRS, JAMES, ALD, STLD, PSA, ABTT, The Theatres Trust and SMA.

Emphasis is also being placed on significantly increasing attendance from the international audience from its current 22%.

“We know that a successful show needs to work on a number of levels,” Toulmin concluded. “Attracting visitors and exhibitors from all geographical regions is key to putting PLASA back on manufacturer’s product launch schedules and helping them to truly engage with their existing and potential customers. To this end, the show has been totally redesigned to provide the visitors with the best possible experience and allow key buyers to maximise their valuable time whilst attending this landmark event.”