Hosted by TPI editor Mark Cunningham, the seminar - Designing for U2 - will feature Willie Williams and Joe O'Herlihy in conversation about their creative and technical involvement with U2, and how advances in technology have been successfully (and ingeniously) applied to deliver the band's constantly evolving performance ethos.
A leading lighting and show designer, Willie Williams joined U2's entourage in the early 1980s, becoming their LD on the 1983 War tour. His combination of hi-tech media and lo-tech eccentricity later adorned the band's Zoo TV, PopMart and Elevation tours. Outside of U2, Williams has extended his reputation through his work for REM, David Bowie, Bryan Adams, The Corrs, the Rolling Stones and the musicals We Will Rock You and Barbarella.
After a long stint on the road with Rory Gallagher, Joe O'Herlihy was persuaded to occupy the front of house sound engineer role for U2 in 1978, well before the band's first hit. Twenty-six years later, O'Herlihy is not only still there, having played a crucial part in every one of their tours, but he is also currently designing the systems for the band's 2005 world tour. In between U2 campaigns, O'Herlihy has also mixed the likes of REM and The Cranberries, amongst other top acts.
The session takes place on Tuesday 14 September at 5pm at Earls Court, London. We expect places to go quickly, so register to attend now. Pre-registration is £15.00 plus VAT and on the door registration is £20.00 plus VAT. Student tickets are £10.00 plus VAT (with a valid NUS card). The admission price includes a glass of wine on arrival.
Also running during the PLASA Show is Future Trends - An Audience with Professor James Woudhuysen (Monday 13 September at 5pm). Woudhuysen, a controversial and entertaining speaker, will be looking at future trends in design and innovation. To register to attend either or both e-mail the address below with the time and date of the relevant session. Alternatively register online at www.plasashow.com/seminars
(Ruth Rossington)
