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13 December 2024

UK - After another year of ‘inspiring and groundbreaking entries’, the ABTT’s Stephen Joseph Committee faced a challenge in selecting the 2024 Award winner, which honours innovative and inclusive theatre excellence.

Named in tribute to leading post-war British theatre pioneer and founding ABTT member, the Stephen Joseph Award celebrates the bold ways in which theatre practitioners push boundaries in using theatre space and forging close, creative connections between performers and audiences.

After a lively and passionate discussion about the submissions, the judging panel reached a unanimous decision: the 2024 ABTT Stephen Joseph Award goes to Frozen Light, a Norwich-based company that is revolutionising multi-sensory theatre for audiences with profound and multiple learning disabilities.

Presented at the ABTT Christmas Party, Bob Milli

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12 December 2024

UK - This year, at the ABTT Members' Christmas Party on Friday 6 December, the Association of British Theatre Technicians, with the support of ETC and LW Theatres, honoured four of its members by awarding them Honorary Membership and Fellowship for their extraordinary work.

ABTT co-chairs Mig Burgess and David Evans kicked off the afternoon at the Gillian Lynne Theatre, welcoming the crowd and sharing the exciting news that this year, more members than ever would be celebrated. The Awards began by announcing that there were “two exceptional individuals whose contributions to the Association have been nothing short of extraordinary. This prestigious recognition of Honorary Membership is reserved only for those who have truly excelled in advancing the ABTT’s charitable goals – and these two individuals have certainly done just that.”

The first

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12 December 2024

India - Headquartered in Mumbai, Neo Entertainment is one of India’s premier event production companies. With a promise to continually deploy the latest tech and expertise, they recently upgraded their front-line PA, investing in a Martin Audio WPC line array. They placed a significant order with territory distributors, Vardhaman Megatech Pvt Ltd (VMT), comprising 16 WPC tops and eight SXH subwoofers, along with iK42 amp racks and accessories.

Speaking of the purchase, Neo Entertainment director, Betson Carvalho said, “Choosing the Martin Audio WPC system has been a transformative step for Neo Entertainment. This powerful combination of components has revolutionised our sound capabilities, delivering clear, dynamic and impactful audio that truly elevates events. Martin Audio’s renowned precision and reliability provide us with the confidence to push th

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11 December 2024

UK - After another successful year of ideas being entered, the ABTT Virtual Ideas Platform had the tough job of choosing a winner for the 2024 Idea of the Year Award.

Set up as collaboration between the ABTT and Guildhall School of Music & Drama, the Virtual Ideas Platform serves as an informal introduction service between independent creative innovators and commercial developers behind the sectors’ leading brands, products and services.

Following a stimulating debate about the submissions, the judging panel came to the unanimous decision to present the ABTT Virtual Ideas Platform 2024 Award to Steve Macluskie, lecturer at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, and Toby Cass, third year production technology and management student for their innovative product Beam Strap which is a lightweight beam clamp derivative, designed to take the hassle and

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11 December 2024

Germany - Neumann & Müller has joined the United Nations Global Compact, which sees itself as the world’s largest and most important initiative for sustainable and responsible corporate management. As Martin Hartmann-Schüler, the sustainability manager at N&M, explained: “This step underlines our commitment to sustainability and social responsibility.”

The UN Global Compact is based on 10 universal principles and aims to support companies in incorporating sustainability as a strategic element in their business activities. The principles cover the areas of human rights, labour rights, environmental protection and the fight against corruption. At the same time, the initiative supports efforts to achieve the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDG). Over 25,000 companies and organisations from all over the world have already signed

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11 December 2024

UK - In honour of the company’s 100th year, Celestion has been presented with Serial Number 100 of the special limited edition Celestion 100 JTM Amplifier by Marshall Amplification.

To commemorate the two companies’ partnership and collaboration over the past 60+ years and their rich musical legacy, Marshall produced the new Studio JTM in a special limited run of 100 pieces handcrafted in the UK, in a new cream colour, featuring the anniversary Celestion 100 Alnico speaker. The original JTM amplifiers which inspired this limited edition have a legendary rock and roll heritage, having been used by artists such as Jimi Hendrix and Eric Clapton.

The anniversary Celestion100 alnico speaker, introduced at NAMM 2024, channels the legacy and tone of the Celestion’s G12 speakers from the late 1950s and early 1960s including the T530 Alnico Blue, the fi

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09 December 2024

Hungary - Lightware Visual Engineering has detailed its comprehensive Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) approach. These efforts reflect the company's dedication to integrating sustainability into all aspects of its operations.

Lightware has acknowledged the impact of its activities on the environment, society, and the economy and is committed to embedding sustainability into its business strategy. The company emphasises that the values embodied in its products and services are the foundation of its success.

To ensure the longevity of its products, Lightware has implemented comprehensive testing protocols, robust engineering processes, and ongoing after-sales services such as technical support. A guideline highlights how sustainability aspects are integrated into product design, addressing factors like energy efficiency, IT security, accessi

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06 December 2024

UK - Production Futures’ next On Tour event will take place at the Roundhouse, London, on Tuesday 4 March 2025.

The free-of-charge event will promote employability, transferable skills, diversity, free training and networking, and will present paid work opportunities to newcomers across the live event and broadcast production industry.

Visitors to the show will enjoy a packed schedule, which includes special guests, talks and panels, while industry workshops will offer young visitors the chance to engage in a wide range of activities, from preparing to be job-ready with industry-oriented CVs, to hands-on exploration of lighting programming, CAD, audio engineering, as well as getting under the skin of music production, virtual production and event production planning.

Hannah Eakins, CEO at Production Futures comments: “We’re abs

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06 December 2024

UK - Pro audio service provider 22live has been appointed exclusive distributor for KLVR in the UK.

Following 22live’s launch in January 2023, the company has had a keen eye out for niche products that it can endorse. KLVR is a new manufacturer based in Scandinavia that launches with its new charger solution the KLVR (Klever) Charger Pro. The KLVR Charger Pro ‘revolutionises’ battery management for professional AV environments, offering ‘unmatched capacity and sustainability’.

This 1U rack-mounted charger supports up to 48 AA or AAA batteries, enabling seamless operation of wireless microphones, in-ear monitors, and more. Featuring 1.5V Li-Ion batteries with 30% higher capacity than standard rechargeables and up to 1,200 charge cycles, it provides reliable, consistent power for critical applications.

With the intuitive KLVR Control

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05 December 2024

UAE - d&b audiotechnik is moving closer to its customers in the region with the opening of a new Middle East subsidiary in Dubai. Brad Maiden, general manager, will head up the new d&b office, supported by a team for regional sales and education and application support.

The team will provide product and market expertise, develop strategic partnerships and a regional training program, which is already in place. Together with its network of experienced sales, integration and rental partners, d&b audiotechnik’s mission in the Middle East is to deliver ‘exceptional customer experiences across a range of industries’.

d&b audiotechnik ME will work closely with its sales partners in the region such as Provision AVL, 7Hertz, Technology KAR and Southby Middle East, and integration and rental partners Creative Technology ME, AVI-SPL, Qual

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05 December 2024

UK - Sunbelt Rentals UK & Ireland has announced the acquisition of the businesses JL Lighting Limited, JL Live Limited and Digiset Limited (together the JL Group), specialists in technical broadcast and production solutions.

With the addition of the JL Group, Sunbelt Rentals is broadening its capabilities to offer a wider range of equipment, specialist knowledge and solutions for the film and TV, broadcast and events industries.

Founded in 2009, the JL Group is a UK-based production and equipment rental partner known for its expertise in delivering technical production across a variety of sectors, including corporate events, conferences, live events and film and TV productions.

Additionally, this acquisition will bring a team of technical production specialists into Sunbelt Rentals’ Film and TV division. They will be based out of the co

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05 December 2024

Argentina - Zactrack has announced Stage Tech as its new distribution partner for Argentina and Uruguay.

Stephan Saremba, managing director of Zactrack International, comments: “We are thrilled to join forces with Stage Tech on the mission of bringing automated tracking technology to Argentina and Uruguay. We are looking forward to working with their dedicated and recently grown team, which will allow us to strengthen relationships with existing Zactrack users in the region as well as to expand into new markets.”

Antonio Agra, managing director of Stage Tech, adds: “We thank Zactrack for the trust placed in Stage Tech and the opportunity to be part of the company´s global network. With our industry experienced team, we’ll be allowed to collaborate and achieve excellent results in our professional markets with Zactrack automated follow system

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04 December 2024

France - Showlight is extremely excited to announce the first of its speakers who will present Papers in May. The selection draws from a mixture of lighting disciplines covering site-specific installations, mixed lighting challenges, product innovation and circus spectaculars with speakers, new and familiar, travelling to Dijon to be part of this exceptional networking quadrennial.

Here’s the first of what the Showlight 2025 line-up has to offer:

The Magic of Cirque du Soleil - Mikki Kunttu will explain how he turns magic into reality as the lighting & set designer and programmer for a number of spectacular Cirque du Soleil shows.

The Power of Light: From Myth to Science to Control - Anne Militello will examine how lighting techniques used today to stir emotional reactions, date back centuries to when man first incorpor

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04 December 2024

UK/USA - Brompton Technology has announced Thor AV to its Panel Manufacturer Partner Programme as a blue partner. With over two decades of experience in the audiovisual industry and a history of delivering hundreds of successful installations across churches, concert venues, virtual production studios, and corporate lobbies in the US, Thor has built a strong reputation.

Thor now joins a network of partners, including ROE Visual, INFiLED, Absen, and Pixreal, as part of Brompton’s expanding Panel Manufacturer Partner Programme. Launched earlier this year, the initiative aims to strengthen collaboration with leading LED panel manufacturers. It recognises manufacturers who integrate Brompton’s Tessera LED processing into their standard product offerings, fostering closer partnerships while maintaining Brompton’s commitment to working with any manu

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04 December 2024

UAE - Audiovisual solutions provider mediaPro has expanded its INFiLED fleet, adding 2,000 sq.m of ARmk2 screens to its inventory, raising its stock from 150 sq.m of INFiLED DB1.5 M4 panels, acquired last year.

mediaPro has been delivering AV technology and solutions to the entertainment industry since 2004. Initially drawn to INFiLED for its vibrant and high-performance screens, the company has worked with the global manufacturer of high-end LED display solutions for two years.

“We first initiated a purchase of INFiLED’s 1.5mm panels, and then progressed to the purchase of a higher volume of the ARmk2 range,” states Neeraj Pola, video technical director at mediaPro. “The increased size of our order reflects our demand for higher-volume solutions.” He also highlights that this substantial purchase will support mediaPro’s continued work on

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03 December 2024

France - Ayrton, which has recently undergone a major expansion of its headquarters in Villebon-Sur-Yvette, south of Paris, showcased its new showroom and immersive museum with a series of events in November.

Over a two-week period, four events saw over 450 international guests, distributors, partners and lighting designers gather to immerse themselves in designs, innovative lighting solutions, and a world of creativity to inspire their next projects.

The new 1,200m2 x 8.5m high wide-format demonstration room, complete with luxurious theatre seating, provided the ideal forum to discover all of Ayrton’s products, while the immersive museum showcases the luminaires that have made Ayrton’s history. Guests were treated to cocktail receptions and dinner in the breakout rooms at every event which gave ample opportunity to network, ask questions and mak

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03 December 2024

UK - PLASA and NRAG (the National Rigging Advisory Group) have issued the following statement relating to recent fraudulent use of National Rigging Certificate (NRC) cards: “It has come to our attention that there are fraudulent NRC cards in circulation, and some individuals are falsely claiming to hold NRC accreditation.

“PLASA and NRAG highly respect the work of all those who have achieved the NRC, and are dedicated to preserving the high standards set by the NRC. We are taking the matter seriously and acting with urgency to ensure that this issue is resolved, promptly and permanently for the safety of all.

“If you are approached by anyone new, or work with anyone that you're not sure about, please make contact directly via nrc@plasa.org to check their credentials. You can also look up certified NRC riggers

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03 December 2024

Middle East - Procom Middle East has been appointed exclusive Zactrack distribution partner in the GCC and Lebanon.

Stephan Saremba, managing director of Zactrack International comments: “We are excited about joining forces with Procom and we are looking forward to this partnership. Both companies have a clear focus on providing high-quality products, excellent customer service and solutions to address customer needs in the various markets we are active in.

“With the commitment and expertise of Procom we are aiming to strengthen relationships with existing Zactrack users as well as expand into new markets. We are thrilled to welcome Procom to the Zactrack family and jointly grow the Middle East market with Zactrack solutions.”

"We have seen the demand for tracking solutions precede the product offerings available, and we are happy to ma

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03 December 2024

Morocco - Powersoft is further expanding its distributor network by naming MIFA Musique as its distributor in Morocco.

Founded 29 years ago, MIFA Musique has become one of Morocco’s leading audio solutions providers. MIFA Musique operates through various locations in Casablanca, Rabat, Marrakech, Tangier and Tetuán through company-owned stores in collaboration with authorised dealers and large retail chains.

“We are excited to have Powersoft in our portfolio,” says Karima Khireddine, business unit manager at MIFA Musique. “Powersoft holds a reputation in excellence and reliability in high-performance audio amplification and energy efficient technology. Having the brand in our portfolio will help us differentiate from competitors, attract new business opportunities and build credibility in hospitality, live events and other verticals that req

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03 December 2024

USA - Optic8 and Trilogy Studios have opened a virtual production facility in Dallas, Texas, powered by Brompton Technology’s Tessera SX40 LED processors and Absen’s high-performance LED screens.

This facility comprises three advanced production stages: a main cinematic volume designed for film and TV, a specialised car process stage, and a smaller stage tailored for commercials and music videos.

Optic8 and Trilogy Studios have been very pleased with the Brompton lineup. “We test and re-test so many products out there, and we bring those results to our clients,” says Dan Kretz, Optic8 founder. “Trilogy Studios was impressed with everything from the ease of use, the customisation capabilities and colour accuracy, to the ability to do Genlock and multi-camera virtual production shoots – Trilogy Studios was very excited to go with Brompton.

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03 December 2024

Artistic Freedom - Theatres, opera and dance companies from across the European Union have warned the European parliament that "brazen attacks on artistic freedom" are posing an existential threat to creativity across the continent. Almost 250 artists and 178 cultural institutions from every EU nation are represented in the open letter to the parliament, which is also backed by UK figures including Battersea Arts Centre’s head of programming Pelin Başaran, reports The Stage.

The European Theatre Convention, Opera Europa, the Prospero – Extended Theatre platform, German and Swedish theatre academies and the national theatres of countries including Slovakia, Albania, Greece and Croatia are among those raising the alarm about an "orchestrated cultural-political strategy aimed at the disappearance of a diverse European culture".

According t

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02 December 2024

Europe - The ADJ Group of Companies has expanded its European headquarters in Kerkrade, the Netherlands. The ADJ Group includes ADJ Lighting, Acclaim Lighting, Duratruss, Elation and Obsidian Control Systems.

The new three-story Hall 4 building connects to the company’s existing facility and is now home to expanded R&D, QC, Service and Spare Parts departments. This substantial investment has been made to better serve customers through increased order processing capacity, expanded quality control, improved logistics, enhanced service, and ultimately greater innovation. Demonstrating the company’s commitment to the environment, the new building also features an extensive solar power installation capable of generating a large proportion of the electricity required to run the entire site.

“This is a significant project for the ADJ Group in Euro

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29 November 2024

UK - WSDG will participate in the 12th annual Stadium Business Design & Development Summit. A global forum for innovators shaping the future of sports and entertainment venues, this event will take place at Emirates Old Trafford, Manchester, from 2-4 December, 2024.

The summit will bring together a diverse audience, including international project delegations from stadiums, arenas, and entertainment destinations, alongside leading architects, engineers, consultants, and sector specialists. Over three days, attendees will explore the latest innovations in venue design, construction, and technology, while taking full advantage of networking and collaboration opportunities.

WSDG’s extensive portfolio encompasses celebrated projects across sports stadiums, performance venues, and entertainment destinations worldwide.

Representing W

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28 November 2024

Luxembourg - Lemon Event Support is a creative event production company based in Luxembourg. The company started as a sound and lighting rental company in 2009 and in 2014 joined forces, skills and resources with video content production specialist Moast Creative Studio. Lemon Event Support grew, developed and enjoyed success delivering multiple events.

The first Robe moving light products onboard were Pointes. They were soon followed by VIVA CMYs, LEDBeam 150s, LEDWash 300s, LEDWash600+s, LEDBeam 350s and, most recently, T1 Profiles.

The fusion of the two companies enabled the provision of full design and production packages, with a separation also maintained within the structure, allowing each to work alone or together as needed, therefore embracing a greater range of clients. With the core of Lemon & Moast’s work being in the high-end corpor