Stage Technologies was once again platinum sponsor of the conference, which saw an increase of 20% in attendees over the inaugural event of 2008. Mark Ager, CEO of the Stage Technologies Group commented, "As a company we strongly believe in supporting this extremely important theater market. These conferences provide a wonderful forum for like-minded professionals to get together to debate and discuss a variety of relevant issues and push forward the boundaries of stage engineering."
Participants enjoyed a mixture of presentations, networking and backstage tours to the Met Opera and Radio City Music Hall. This year's location, the New York Hilton in midtown, provided a more convenient venue and more dining and entertainment options as well as accommodation onsite.
Mark Ager delivered a presentation about how power flying systems are changing the face of theatre design. He used illustrations from a number of venues including the controversial 'inside-out' Curve Theatre in the UK. The presentation was part of the panel discussion All you ever wanted to know about automation but were afraid to ask which was moderated by David Edelstein of Triple E. The session followed the keynote address delivered by Richard Pilbrow, founder of Theatre Project Consultants (TPC) and one of the world's leading theatre design consultants.
Donna Frankel, the NATEAC coordinator commented, "The continuing support of our partners, especially our platinum sponsor Stage Technologies, allowed us to hold the conference at the Hilton New York, which was the perfect venue for NATEAC 2012. We are grateful for their encouragement & participation."
(Jim Evans)
