The PLASA Show seminar programme is one of its most important and popular
features, each year hosting industry experts from around the world who share their
knowledge, skills and experience. This year, the new, enhanced programme is set to
deliver even more content than before and will feature a diverse range of subjects
that will look at topical issues, ground-breaking concepts and deliver real insight into
the world of entertainment technology.

The first sessions to be announced take place in the Audio and AV Theatre and include
sound designers Gareth Fry and Pete Malkin talking about their incredible work to
build a shifting world of sound on The Encounter, Simon McBurney’s solo performance,
which traces National Geographic photographer Loren McIntyre’s journey into the
depths of the Amazon rainforest; the welcome return of veteran industry journalist
Phil Ward, who hosts two panel sessions entitled 360 Degrees of Sound, which will
take a look at 3D audio, and dealing with architects and consultants, as well as the
intriguingly entitled “Was Le Corbusier Deaf or What?’ Jon Burton will impart
his 10 Top Tips for touring engineers; while the IPS will take a look at the ins and outs
of microphones.

In the Lighting, Staging and Rigging Theatre, Richard Pilbrow’s Theatre Projects at 60
– Session: Women Backstage… A New Theatre? will feature an impressive
panel line-up that will look at the rise in women’s contribution to the world of theatre;
during Video As Light, award winning video designer Nina Dunn and guests will
discuss the dynamic techniques for using video design to support theatrical Lighting;
and Charcoal Blue’s Scott Stuart will take a look at Aerial Rigging and how to make it
safe.

“Celebrating 60 years of Theatre Projects is quite an occasion,’ says Richard Pilbrow.
“For me, now a very antique designer, many amazing things have occurred. There are
new forms of theatre, staggering advances in technology, and a host of thrilling
friends. But none give me greater pleasure than to witness the advance of women to
leadership in our theatre industry.”

Additional bite-sized sessions will take place in the new Fast Track Theatre, where you
can learn how to approach fitting radio mics to performers with the ASD’s Zoe Milton
and Alison Dale from the IPS; learn about The Business of Being in the Entertainment
Technology Business and take part in the Communications Workshop, both of which
will be hosted by Burnt Orange’s Lauren Rogers; and look at the art of Getting a Foot
in the Door with Darryn de la Soul; whilst the Apex Room will host the ever-popular
Riggers Forum, which takes place on the first day of the show.

“I really enjoy coming to PLASA,’ says Zoe Milton. “The London show has a great
buzz; there is always something new to look at, from brand new companies to
industry favourites. The seminar audiences are great; they are a real mix of industry
professionals and those just starting out, which means you get a fantastic variety of
questions, and usually, I end up learning something new, too!’

“We are really excited to be part of the Fast Track Theatre,’ adds Lauren Rogers. “We
have gained a lot of insight over the years, working both within the industry and
outside of it. Most of our work sees us analyse best practices from other creative
sectors that we distill and implement to move the industry forward and we are looking
forward to being able to pass some of that knowledge on.”

As always, the seminar programme is free-to-attend. For more information and to
sign up for a session, please visit www.plasashow.com/seminars.