Feedback for the show has also been very positive from attendees, with visitors commenting on the high number and quality of manufacturers exhibiting, the range of new products showcased for the first time in the UK at the event, the choice and relevance of free guest speaker seminars and the overall professional organization of the show.
This year's show provided a platform for the UK launch or preview of over 30 new product innovations from major entertainment technology manufacturers, providing an indication of how important the show is becoming as a key launch event for companies wishing to reach buyers in the North of England, and reinforcing its position as the largest single entertainment technology tradeshow in the region.
Manufacturers showcasing new products across a diverse range of lighting and audio product categories included Clay Paky, Martin Professional, Pulsar, Selecon, Zero 88, Avolites, Jands, Chroma-Q, Allen & Heath, Beyerdynamics, Turbosound, Community, Sennheiser and Le Mark Group. The relocation of the show's guest speaker seminars to the Bury Theatre, to accommodate additional exhibitors in the main hall and provide further seminar seating capacity, was also welcomed.
Unique seminar talks this year included Ron Bonner from PLASA discussing how to comply with new legislation when working at height, sound guru Dave Bearman de-mystifying digital audio distribution, top LD Tom Lesh explaining how he overcame the hurdle of lighting the cartoon band "Gorillaz" with shadows, Nigel Sadler of Scene Change exploring the creative world of mixed media lighting production, A.C.'s own Neil Vann bringing visitors up to date with lighting control networking, and A.C.'s Glyn O'Donoghue discussing developments in LED's and their practical application in entertainment lighting.
A.C. Lighting supply products to over 90 countries worldwide from their offices in Leeds and High Wycombe - making the company one of the largest distributors of professional lighting and audio products to the entertainment industry. The company's northern sales director, Jonathan Walters commented: "This year's show has really set a precedent for future A.C. Lighting North tradeshows, with a record number of visitors, exhibitors and our strongest product representation yet by industry-leading manufacturers. All attendee feedback so far suggests that we got the balance just right this year, so we look forward to exceeding everyone's expectations next year. A big thank you to our sponsors and everyone who attended the show."
James Molony of A.C. told L&SI: "Due to the overwhelming success of this years event A.C. has already confirmed the dates for next years show at the Royal Armouries Museum, Leeds as Tuesday 26 April - Wednesday 27 April 2005."
(Sarah Rushton-Read)
