Confirming that the PLASA Rigging Conference maintains a truly international profile, this year's key-note speaker, Roy Bickel, one of the original 'Disney Riggers' from the USA is followed by speakers from both sides of the globe.
Looking at Ground Supported Structures will be Malcolm Richards, a chartered structural engineer with extensive experience in all forms of entertainment industry structures. Supported by a panel representing manufacturers, suppliers, consultants and designers, Richards will be looking closely at the safety and science of the ground supported structure especially in the light of last year's tragic events, both in Indiana and in Europe.
New Zealand rigger and structural engineer, Nick Barnfield will be asking the question - What really happens when the GO button is pushed? This session is dedicated to understanding dynamic loads; an increasingly common requirement in today's touring productions. From a wealth of understanding and experience, Barnfield will put a perspective on the load paths and the stresses we apply to buildings and structures.
The continuing popularity of Performer Flying and Aerial Performance will be the topic for debate in a session led by Robert Dean, founder of ZFX Inc. Bringing together a panel of experts from this highly specialised sector of the industry, Dean will be using his 22 years of global experience and expertise to explore issues from safety and certification to developments in rigging and harnesses.
More contributors and sessions are still to be announced in the coming weeks.
In addition, the Conference will build on the progress of themes scrutinised last year. This will include examining the development of a standard international dictionary of rigging terminology, a convention for rigging drawings and rigging practices across Europe. These are pivotal strategies in the professionalising of this still relatively young industry.
The Rigger's Forum will take place on the afternoon of Sunday 9 September. This is an informal event that offers riggers unable to attend the main conference the opportunity to discuss issues and challenges in their working environment with experts in the industry.
Registration is live now - early and re-booking rates are available until the end of June.
• Until 1 July PLASA Members or NRC / ETCP qualified delegates can purchase tickets for £220 + VAT
• Until 1 July Non-Members can purchase tickets for £265 + VAT.
To book tickets visit: www.plasariggingconference.com
(Jim Evans)
