The programme has been specially curated by some of the industry's leading talents, giving visitors a unique opportunity to broaden their specialist knowledge and take part in discussions about innovative projects and cutting edge techniques.
"One of the benefits of hosting a Focus event in Nashville is the depth of professional industry knowledge that is intrinsic to the area," comments PLASA CEO Matthew Griffiths. "Being able to tap into that regional passion for live entertainment and to share it in a common space is something which will not only benefit the local entertainment technology community in Tennessee, but also the surrounding states as well. And by attending our free seminar series visitors are able to gain access to that knowledge first hand, and in their own back yard."
The seminar programme is packed full of the industry's leading names including Broadway scenic designer Donyale Werle, who kicks off the programme with her talk; The Green Scene: Recycling Sets. Donyale, who's work includes Bloody, Bloody Andrew Jackson and Peter and the StarCatcher, describes how she builds sets from salvaged and found materials to reduce the environmental impact of a show.
From Concept to First Night, is presented by world-renowned production designer Jonathan Smeeton. Drawing from his experiences working with artists such as George Michael, Tina Turner, Taylor Swift and more, this seminar sees Jonathan share his top production design tips as he takes us through the stages of getting a show from concept through to production.
Audio engineers, technicians and production managers won't want to miss this chance to hear from Nashville audio pro Eric Elwell as he presents his seminar; Trends in Live Sound Reinforcement. Eric has engineered on the road for bands like Sugarland, Amy Grant, Joe Nichols, and more. This seminar is an opportunity to hear from Eric as he discusses what's new in live sound reinforcement.
Towards the end of day one Tobin Neis will talk attendees through the process of figuring out how much money can be saved by using alternative light sources like LEDs. Save energy, save money, and save the planet, is the mantra of Tobin's seminar: ROI on LEDs and Other ALS (Alternative Light Sources).
PLASA Focus is lucky to have Nashville video designer Ken Gay, and award winning live music director and line producer Mark Haney to kick off day two with Trends in Video Design, a presentation about the latest video design trends that are having a major impact on the industry. The talk focuses on video in live event production and how, as it quickly evolves, it is redefining the boundaries of the live show as we know it.
Also on the second day of the show, Stephen Gudis gives a master class in the art of production management with his seminarProduction Management in a Frenzied World. A specialist in tour production, event management and artist coordination since the 1960's, Production Department president, Stephen Gudis, has seen the industry develop and mature into more complex and demanding events, merging live, audio and visual media. This talk is filled with invaluable advice for the well seasoned, as well as the aspiring, production manager.
Aside from the Seminar Programme, PLASA Focus: Nashville 2012 will exhibit the latest in new entertainment technology. The event, which is also free to attend, will bring world class professional knowledge to Tennessee, giving the region's exciting community of lighting designers, sound engineers, production companies, dealers and rental houses, an opportunity to connect with their peers as well as engage with the tools of tomorrow.
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