New features opening today at the show include the new Integrated Systems Area; a greatly expanded PLASA Seminar Programme with a dedicated Technologies for Worship programme; and the first PLASA appearance of NEET (the National Exhibition of Entertainment Technology).
Traditionally 'DJ Day', day one of the show attracts a large DJ following, to participate in the heats and final of the Gemini 'Extreme V' DJ Competition.
Among today's other special features and events will be the ever-popular Talkzones, where music industry experts talk about different aspects of DJ'ing and dance music, including technical skills, online music and the business of music in general. There will also be the Raw Talent Showcase, in which the winners of iDJ's monthly mix competition will perform throughout the day and the A&R Zone, where budding producers can bring along their demos and get expert opinion from some of dance music's leading labels.
Visitors are expected to linger longer at the show also, with the new 'late licence' that sees the After-Show bar open until 8pm. Sponsoring the bar will be some of the entertainment industry's major players, including Aviom, Avolites, DiGiCo, Lab:Gruppen, Mobil-Tech, Stardraw and XTA Electronics. Those who visit the sponsors' stands will get complimentary drinks, entry into a free prize draw and the chance to win £1,000.00.
The show runs for four days, closing on Wednesday 13 September.
(Chris Henry)