Curated to reflect the current priorities and future direction of the live entertainment technology sector, this year’s programme delivers two days of free to attend sessions covering technical skills, emerging technologies, sustainability, and workforce development.

Across the show, visitors will hear from industry leaders, practitioners, and innovators working across lighting, audio, AV, rigging, and staging. They will share practical insight, real world experience, and forward-thinking ideas.

All sessions are free to attend and will run across both days of the show.

Technical skills in action

Hands on knowledge and practical expertise take centre stage in 2026, with a series of sessions designed to support professionals working across live production and installation.

Speakers including Tim Smith (Artistic Licence), David Catterall and Dave Whitehouse (Robe), Lisa Stafford (Tazaar), and Tommy Cockerham (Royal Ballet & Opera) will deliver sessions such as “Thinking Outside the (Black) Box”, “Down The Line: DMX And RDM”, and “LEDs In The Spotlight: What You Need To Know But No One Tells You!”.

Additional sessions including “Truss Strength Awareness” from PROLYTE and “Power & Network Protocols for Sound System Design” from d&b audiotechnik expand the programme across staging and audio disciplines.

Together, these sessions explore creative workflows, system design, and the technical fundamentals that underpin successful productions. They are designed to give attendees practical insight that can be applied directly to their own work.

AI, cyber security and sustainability

As the industry adapts to rapid technological and environmental change, a dedicated programme strand will explore the impact of AI, cyber security and sustainability on live production.

Sessions including “Robot Wars: Is AI Friend Or Foe To The Entertainment Technology Industry?”, “Cybersecurity In Entertainment Technology – Sig-Net And The CRA Deadlines – What You Need To Know”, “Sustainability In Entertainment Technology: Where To Start”, and “Where Do I Find Funding?” will examine how these forces are reshaping workflows, infrastructure, and long-term planning.

With contributions from Dr Sacha Krstulovic, Wayne Howell (Singularity), and Christian Wallace (The Old Vic), these discussions will provide practical guidance on navigating change. They will also address both the opportunities and challenges facing the sector.

Supporting the next generation

Career development and succession planning form a key part of this year’s programme, reflecting the industry’s growing focus on building a resilient future workforce.

With input from The Power of Events, Factory International, and Soulsound, sessions such as “How To Build A Freelance Career In Live Events” and “Inclusive Pathways Into Technical Theatre: From Curiosity To Career” will offer guidance for those entering the sector. They will also provide insight for experienced professionals who are thinking about long term career progression.

The programme also features “The Power of Events Schools Engagement Programme: Inspiring the Next Generation of Event Professionals”, which will showcase the importance of early outreach and showcasing how the industry is working to engage and inspire future talent.

Expert insight from across the industry

Beyond the core themes, the programme features a wide range of specialist sessions from respected designers and engineers.

Lighting designers Maya Gribby and Elanor Higgins will share creative approaches to design. While “Tony Birch – Career, Insights And Lessons” offers a behind the scenes look at the experience and insight of one of the industry’s most respected audio professionals.

The programme is further complemented by presentations from leading exhibiting brands including ChamSys, EM Acoustics, and KV2 Audio. These sessions give attendees direct access to the latest tools, technologies, and techniques shaping the industry.

Learn, connect, and explore

Taking place alongside more than 190 brands across two exhibition halls, extended museum space, and an outdoor courtyard, the seminar programme is a core part of the PLASA Focus Leeds experience. The show is known for its approachable and friendly atmosphere, as well as its highly focused environment.

Alongside the seminar programme, visitors can also take part in hands-on ChamSys lighting training, experience dedicated audio demo spaces from KV2 Audio and EM Acoustics and join speed networking sessions designed to connect professionals across the industry.

Plus, to help visitors make the most of their time at the show, the official event appallows users to browse the full seminar programme, explore exhibitors, and build a personalised schedule in advance.

Whether you are looking to build your skills, explore new technologies, or take the next step in your career, the programme offers valuable insight for professionals at every level.

PLASA Focus Leeds 2026 takes place at the Royal Armouries, Leeds, on 12th – 13th May.

Register for free and explore the full seminar programme at: https://buff.ly/7B4UXdA

The post Skills, AI and sustainability take centre stage at PLASA Focus Leeds 2026 appeared first on A1 Lighting Magazine.

Now firmly established as a key date in the UK events technology calendar, PLASA Focus Leeds is known for its approachable scale, strong technical focus, and relaxed atmosphere. This makes the event equally valuable for seasoned professionals, emerging talent, and those discovering new tools and suppliers.

A focused showcase of event technology

With 125+ brands already confirmed, PLASA Focus Leeds 2026 will present a broad and in-depth cross-section of the technologies underpinning today’s live productions, installations, and experiences.

Exhibitors span lighting, audio, AV, rigging, staging, control, power distribution, and more, offering visitors a rare opportunity to explore multiple disciplines side by side. From globally recognised manufacturers to specialist suppliers and service providers, the show floor is designed for practical comparison and informed conversation.

Visitors can get hands-on with new products, discuss real-world applications directly with technical experts, and assess solutions in a focused, distraction-free environment.

Due to continued high demand from exhibitors, the 2026 edition will expand further into the Royal Armouries’ museum and café areas, increasing floor space and allowing even more brands to participate while maintaining the show’s compact and accessible feel.

Confirmed exhibitors include leading names such as A.C. Entertainment Technologies, Ambersphere Solutions, Avolites, Bose Professional, ChamSys, CHAUVET Professional, d&b audiotechnik, DPA Microphones, ETC, GLP, KV2 Audio, Martin Audio, Panasonic Connect, Robe, Riedel Communications, ROE Visual UK, Sennheiser UK, Sixty82 UK, Solotech UK, TMB, White Light, and many more, with additional brands to be announced in the coming months.

Technology-led learning and insight

Complementing the exhibition, the PLASA Focus Leeds 2026 seminar programme will return with a curated mix of technical sessions, panel discussions, and industry insight, designed to reflect the challenges and opportunities facing today’s entertainment technology professionals.

While the full programme will be announced closer to the show, sessions will be tailored to support both practical decision-making and longer-term thinking. From evolving technologies and workflows to skills development and industry best practice. The seminar programme forms a core part of the PLASA Focus Leeds experience, offering accessible learning alongside the opportunity to engage directly with peers and experts.

The PLASA Focus Leeds app returns

Building on its successful introduction last year, the PLASA Focus Leeds app will return for 2026, helping visitors plan, navigate, and personalise their show experience.

The app will include digital visitor badges for streamlined entry, a full exhibitor directory, seminar schedules, interactive floorplans with on-site navigation, and session reminders. Further details on features and availability will be shared ahead of the event.

Supporting the next generation of professionals 

Student and newcomer engagement remains a central pillar of PLASA Focus Leeds. The show continues to provide a welcoming and accessible environment for those at the start of their careers, alongside established professionals looking to expand their skills or explore new areas of the industry.

By bringing together education, technology, and real-world expertise in one space, PLASA Focus Leeds helps bridge the gap between learning and practice, supporting career development while strengthening the industry’s future talent pipeline.

Sophie Atkinson, Head of Events at PLASA, comments: “PLASA Focus Leeds has become a valued meeting point for the industry because it puts technology and people first. The continued demand from exhibitors speaks volumes about the show’s importance to the sector, and expanding into additional areas of the Royal Armouries allows us to welcome even more innovation while preserving the focused, friendly atmosphere visitors value. We’re excited to open registration for 2026 and look forward to sharing more in the coming months.”

Register now

Whether you’re specifying systems, designing productions, installing venues, or building your career in live events and entertainment technology, PLASA Focus Leeds 2026 offers a practical, people-focused environment to explore the tools and ideas shaping the industry.

Register for free at: www.plasaleeds.com.

The post Explore the event technology of tomorrow at PLASA Focus Leeds 2026 appeared first on A1 Lighting Magazine.

Integrated Systems Europe (ISE), the world-renowned annual tech show, will take to the skies for the first time with a spectacular 600-drone performance. This stunning collaboration of technology, artistry, and creativity will deliver a crowd-pleasing audio-visual experience, every evening from 3^rd – 5^th February at 18:30, illuminating the sky above the South Access of the Fira de Barcelona Gran Vía.

Produced by LANG AG this expertly synchronised performance of light and sound will feature advanced drone choreography and dynamic visual storytelling. The performance will be accompanied by the talent of live musicians, an opera singer, and a digital artist on the ISE South Access Welcome Screen for an uplifting, multisensory experience.

“ISE is a highlight for us every year, but the 2026 edition will be something truly special. Together with the show organisers and our long-standing partner RealTime Department, we’re creating an activation at the South Access that showcases the full potential of drone shows,” says Marta Germes, Director Event Drones at LANG AG. “Creative design, digital signage and synchronised drone flights blend seamlessly to create an inspiring experience. For us, this project is a powerful statement for innovation and collaboration in live communication, and we’re thrilled to make it happen with exactly the right partners.”

For the technically minded, the ISE 2026 Drone Show is a rare opportunity to see cutting-edge audiovisual innovation in action. Real-time data processing, precision automation, advanced drone control systems, and immersive display technology converge to create a breathtaking performance. Live visuals of the 600-drone formations are synchronised with real-time graphics on the ISE South Access Welcome Screen, an invisible 193 sqm LED display powered by MUXWAVE and RealTime Department, providing a orchestrated, dynamic backdrop that demonstrates how technology, collaboration, and creative storytelling can transform public spaces into fully immersive experiences. “The main challenge of the project was live synchronisation. Both the drones with the visual content on the transparent LED, as well as the live music and sound, had to be precisely aligned,” says Christoph Gockel, Managing Director at RealTime Department. “With only a short time between official approval and the start of the show, close coordination between all parties involved was essential. Especially on the opening night, featuring an opera singer, pianist and violinist, the performance will turn the ISE South Entrance into a special evening experience.”

These spectacular drone shows are supported by DAMM, and by sponsors Absen, Christie, MA Lighting, and Clay Paky.

“For over twenty years, ISE has been dedicated to redefining the limits of imagination and achievement within our industry. This year, we are elevating that mission – literally – by bringing our vision to the skies for the very first time in our 22-year history. The ISE 2026 Drone Show is a testament to the innovation at the heart of our community, demonstrating the remarkable outcomes that arise when artistic creativity combines with technological innovation. We are delighted to present this extraordinary spectacle in Barcelona, inviting everyone to be part of an unforgettable week where the possibilities push beyond any ceiling.” explains Mike Blackman, Managing Director of Integrated Systems Events.

Discover the full ISE 2026 experience 

ISE 2026 is more than a trade show; it’s a week-long exploration of innovation, culture, and connection. Through immersive events, powerful digital tools, exclusive visitor benefits, and awe-inspiring citywide activations, ISE invites every attendee to take their experience beyond the convention centre and into the heart of Barcelona.

Register here using our special code a1lighting for your free ticket to ISE 2026.

The post Light takes flight at ISE 2026 appeared first on A1 Lighting Magazine.

This partnership aims to empower specifiers, designers, and architects by sharing knowledge, launching educational initiatives, and fostering more substantial alignment across the lighting ecosystem. It focuses on joint efforts in education, outreach, and the promotion of open standards to enhance lighting outcomes in architectural, commercial, and public space projects.

“Lighting designers play a critical role in shaping the built environment,” said Paul Drosihn, General Manager of the DALI Alliance. “Partnering with the IALD allows us to build a direct bridge to the design community, ensuring that DALI-based technologies continue to support creativity, flexibility, and performance where it matters most.”

The collaboration reflects both organizations’ commitment to supporting a more connected, informed, and design-forward industry.

“This partnership is about ensuring designers have access to the tools, training, and standards they need to deliver exceptional results,” said Christoper Knowlton, CEO of the IALD. “By working with the DALI Alliance, we’re helping to close the gap between evolving control technologies and real-world design practice.”

The DALI Alliance and the IALD view this collaboration as a crucial step in empowering lighting professionals to make informed decisions about control systems and in supporting the long-term success of sustainable, human centric lighting design.

The post DALI Alliance and IALD collaborate in support of lighting design community and industry alignment appeared first on A1 Lighting Magazine.

Integrated Systems Europe (ISE), the world-renowned annual tech show for the audiovisual and systems integration industry, introduced Innovation Park at ISE 2025, a dynamic business hub aimed at showcasing startup ventures and presenting exciting new ideas.

Centrally located in Congress Square, Innovation Park featured 80 promotional pods for startups to present their ideas, offering a way for new businesses to establish a presence at ISE. Following an application process, selected startups were chosen based on their adherence to relevant criteria for attendance at ISE.

For many startups, Innovation Park served as a crucial catalyst for future business growth by providing direct access to investors, partners, and industry experts. In addition to the promotional pods, Innovation Park featured a dedicated Pitching Stage, a Matchmaking Area, and on the first day, an exclusive Investor Forum. This dynamic setting offered a unique opportunity for startups to present their solutions, secure funding opportunities, and build long-term relationships with a high-calibre audience.

“Innovation Park was created to support emerging talents in the AV community,” said Mike Blackman, Managing Director of Integrated Systems Events. “The enthusiasm on the floor and the quality of the partnerships demonstrated this platform’s importance in shaping our industry’s future. The diverse solutions, from acoustic simulation and spatial audio to digital signage and intuitive UI tools, addressed real-world problems effectively. The market response showed readiness to embrace these next-generation AV pioneers.”

Big wins for bold ideas: Startup momentum from ISE 2025

Treble Technologies, a pioneer in next-generation acoustic simulation and spatial audio software from Iceland, used its presence at Innovation Park to demonstrate the power of its advanced sound modelling tools. The company’s solutions enable engineers and designers to simulate and analyse how sound behaves in any environment with exceptional precision. “Innovation Park was a fantastic opportunity for Treble Technologies to showcase our groundbreaking advancements in acoustic simulation and spatial audio. One of our standout moments was participating in the Investor Forum panel, where we shared insights on navigating growth – from initial concept to acquisition – highlighting the pivotal challenges and strategic decisions that have shaped our success.” said Guillaume Demerliac, Senior Marketing Specialist with Treble Technologies.

Similarly, AVGator’s CEO, Vadim Chekirka, underscored the event’s key role in shaping AV technology’s future. “ISE 2025 was a fantastic opportunity to connect with forward-thinking professionals who are shaping the future of AV technology. We were excited to see the strong demand for efficient UI development tools and the growing interest from manufacturers in providing software solutions alongside their hardware. Partnerships like these open new doors for innovation, ultimately making customers’ lives easier and more productive.” AVgator Inc. bases in the United States, is specialised in cutting-edge AV integration solutions and is a proud Crestron Service Provider (CSP), delivering advanced programming and GUI development for Crestron, Extron, Biamp, and Q-SYS control systems.

Digital Signal AV, also based in the United States and a global provider of high-performance visual solutions, set clear KPIs and focused on achieving these, with Daniel LeCour reflecting, “We had two main goals for ISE 2025: show our innovative products to increase awareness and meet potential clients and partners from around the world. Innovation Park has proven to be a great way for small start-up companies like Digital Signal AV to achieve both.”

Efrat Elitzur from Tecom Electronics Ltd based in Israel – a company offering advanced multimedia and pro AV solutions that integrate complex yet user-friendly systems for hybrid classrooms, meeting rooms, and knowledge-intensive projects – found Innovation Park to be a great platform to present new ideas. Based in Israel, she shared: “ISE provided the perfect stage to showcase our latest innovations for immersive classrooms, sparking insightful conversations and receiving enthusiastic feedback from consultants, resellers, and industry leaders worldwide.”

Global connections and strategic partnerships

The diverse range of exhibitors at Innovation Park was a testament to ISE’s ability to bring together brilliant minds from across all sectors. Gaëlle Dubois from Losonnante in France commented on expanding his professional network and securing quality leads, noting, “ISE marked a significant step for Losonnante. Over the four days, we had the opportunity to meet with producers, integrators, and distributors to discuss potential new applications for our bone conduction sound device and to develop strategic partnerships.” Losonnante offers a unique, multisensory sound experience through bone conduction technology. Their “Whisper Box” lets users listen by touch, transmitting sound through the body rather than the air. The result is a memorable, emotion-driven experience that promotes attention, curiosity, and engagement.

Moreover, Igor Murphy from Hive Streaming, shared his experience: “During ISE, we connected with 21 partners, 12+ clients and prospects from eight different countries, making it an incredibly valuable event for us. It was by far our most successful trade fair.” Sweden-based Hive Streaming equips organizations to deliver seamless, high-impact live video events by ensuring stable video infrastructure, maximizing video experiences and providing insights that drive strategic impact.

Award-winning innovations

Innovation Park also provided an opportunity for startups to receive recognition as part of award schemes available to exhibitors at ISE. Several were celebrated with industry awards, including Best of Show product awards.

Eamon Drew from Turtle AV lauded the event’s impact, remarking, “Innovation Park provided an exceptional opportunity to connect with customers globally. Our presence led to new distributors and systems integrators. A very big highlight for us was winning three Best in Show awards for our new products. ISE was a much bigger success for Turtle AV than we could ever have expected.” Turtle AV from Australia develops products for the AV market and is specialised in AV over IP using formats such as Dante AV-A, Dante Audio, H.265/HEVC, and more.

The debut of Innovation Park at ISE 2025 proved to be a success springboard for new businesses looking to grow. The initiative underlines ISE’s commitment to creating opportunities and nurturing high-quality networking by provided a place for startups and investors to connect and do business.

AT ISE 2026 Innovation Park will be even bigger, giving 144 startups and innovators the opportunity to pitch, shine and grow. Registration for Innovation Park is open. Apply today to join a unique innovative and entrepreneurial environment at ISE 2026, apply here: https://bit.ly/ISE2026InnovationParkApplication

The post Innovation Park at ISE 2025 opened doors to global opportunities, with a return planned for 2026 appeared first on A1 Lighting Magazine.

At the recent DALI Alliance General Assembly, all nine incumbent board members were re-elected. Additionally, four new members were elected following the board’s decision to expand in response to the alliance’s continued growth. These newly elected directors bring diverse expertise and representation from key international markets.

The newly elected board members are:

• Kevin Gong (Sunricher) – Chief Technology Officer

• Stewart Langdown (Zencontrol) – Director of Business Development

• Windy Leung (LTECH) – International Sales Director

• Stephen Zhou (mwConnect) – Executive Vice President

With board members spanning Europe, China, the United States, and Australia, the DALI Alliance is further strengthening its global reach. This expansion enhances the organisation’s ability to communicate the benefits of the DALI protocol – including interoperability, automation, scalability, wireless connectivity, IoT integration, and sustainability – to a wider audience.

Paul Drosihn, General Manager of the DALI Alliance, commented: “To further fulfill our mission and commitment to our members, we are delighted to welcome Kevin Gong, Stewart Langdown, Windy Leung, and Stephen Zhou to the Board of Directors. Their expertise and regional representation will provide valuable insights, support native communication, and strengthen our global engagement. This expansion reinforces our role as a leading industry organization focused on standardization, market adoption, and the technological advancements needed to drive meaningful change.”

Throughout 2025, the DALI Alliance will continue expanding its initiatives in wireless connectivity, sensing, system integration, and sustainability, ensuring that smart buildings and cities remain future-proofed with cutting-edge lighting technology. The organization will also broaden its messaging and training efforts across the entire lighting control value chain to further promote the adoption and benefits of DALI-based solutions.

The post DALI Alliance expands Board of Directors to support global growth and innovation appeared first on A1 Lighting Magazine.

Register for free at www.plasaleeds.com.

A showcase of innovation and expertise

With over 175 leading brands spanning audio, AV, lighting, rigging, and staging, the show floor will be brimming with groundbreaking technology and industry-first launches. Attendees can get hands-on with the latest products, connect directly with brand specialists, and build lasting relationships with industry peers.

Who’s exhibiting at PLASA Focus Leeds 2025?

Lighting professionals can explore leading brands including headline sponsor Ambersphere, alongside Avolites, ChamSys, CHAUVET Europe, Entedi, ETC, GLP UK, Prolight, Robe UK, TMB, and White Light.

Audio specialists will have access to top-quality pro audio from Adlib Audio, Audio-Technica, Bose Professional, d&b audiotechnik, EM Acoustics, Funktion One, KV2 Audio, Martin Audio, NEXO, Shure UK, Solotech UK, and Wharfedale Pro.

Rigging experts can meet Area Four Industries, Doughty Engineering, Just Rigging & Inspections, Rigging Services, Rigging Team, Rope and Rigging, Triple E, and UK Rigging.

For AV enthusiasts, cutting-edge solutions will be on display from Epson, LANG UK, PSCo Group, Riedel Communications, and ROE Visual.

Meanwhile, staging innovations will be showcased by Absolute Casing, Drapemakers, Harlequin Floors, and NSP Cases.

New to PLASA Focus Leeds in 2025 are Aber Electronics, Argosy, AV Matrix, Hero Hire, Lightstorm Trading, TAF, Niclen UK, Bridge AV Distribution, Faber Exposize UK, and Greenwaves, bringing even more exciting solutions to the event.

Inspiring seminar programme

The PLASA Focus Leeds seminar programme will offer keynote talks, panel discussions, and technical sessions covering the latest industry trends and practical challenges. Attendees will hear from leading voices in the sector, gain insights into cutting-edge projects, and explore technical and business developments shaping the future of entertainment technology.

For those looking to expand their practical skills, the show will also feature immersive audio demonstrations and hands-on training sessions led by brand specialists.

A brand-new PLASA Focus Leeds app

Following the success of the PLASA Show London app, PLASA Focus Leeds is introducing an enhanced version, featuring:

• Digital visitor badges for streamlined entry
• A full exhibitor and product list
• A detailed seminar schedule
• An interactive floorplan with on-site navigation
• Seminar and workshop session reminders

The app will be available to download soon, with further details sent upon registration.

An unmissable event for students and newcomers

Whether you’re starting out or advancing your career in live entertainment technology, PLASA Focus Leeds provides an inclusive and welcoming space for professionals of all levels to connect, learn, and grow. With a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, the event fosters knowledge-sharing and new career opportunities within the industry.

Sophie Atkinson, Head of Events at PLASA, shares her excitement about the 2025 event: “PLASA Focus Leeds is one of the friendliest and most vibrant events in the industry, bringing together the people behind the technology in a relaxed and welcoming setting. This year, attendees can explore cutting-edge technology, enjoy inspiring talks, and take advantage of countless opportunities to connect with industry peers—whether on the show floor or in our lively outdoor networking area with great food, drinks, and a DJ setting the vibe. We look forward to welcoming you in May!”

Whether you’re exploring new technology, upskilling through interactive sessions, or forging valuable industry connections, PLASA Focus Leeds is where technology meets talent.

The post Celebrate entertainment technology and the people behind it at PLASA Focus Leeds 2025 appeared first on A1 Lighting Magazine.

Speaking at PLASA Focus Leeds is a unique opportunity to connect with a broad audience, as the seminar programme draws over 600 industry attendees across two theatres during the event’s two days.

Your insights could have an impact far beyond the UK, reaching professionals eager to learn and innovate. This is your chance to position yourself as a thought leader, sharing knowledge that could help shape the future of the entertainment technology industry.

Never presented before? No problem! 

The organisers are looking for a diverse range of speakers, from seasoned visionaries and experienced practitioners to business leaders and recent graduates with fresh perspectives.

Whether you’re an expert on legislation, a leader in innovation, or have compelling stories to share, PLASA Focus Leeds is the ideal platform for your voice.

Applicants are encouraged to focus on educational content or thought leadership that can contribute to the industry’s growth, as the programme prioritises non-commercial presentations.

Applications are open until Friday 28th February 2025, when submissions will then be reviewed by the team.

The northern hub 

PLASA Focus Leeds is renowned for its welcoming and vibrant atmosphere, attracting over 2,000 professionals and showcasing more than 150 leading brands.

The event offers a mix of cutting-edge equipment, engaging seminars, and valuable networking opportunities. It is a must-attend event for those working in live sound, lighting, AV, rigging, and staging, providing the perfect environment to share ideas and explore the latest innovations.

Apply now 

If you’re ready to make your mark and contribute to the conversations shaping the industry, apply to speak at PLASA Focus Leeds before 28th February.

For more information and to submit your application, visit: www.plasaleeds.com/speak-at-plasa-focus-leeds.

The post Speaker applications now open for PLASA Focus Leeds 2025 appeared first on A1 Lighting Magazine.

Integrated Systems Europe (ISE) and Llum BCN are thrilled to announce their continued collaboration for the fourth consecutive year, bringing together the best of technology and artistic innovation. This partnership will be showcased at ISE 2025, held from 4^th – 7^th February at Fira de Barcelona Gran Vía, where attendees will get an exclusive preview of the mesmerising light installations of Llum BCN 25.

Llum BCN: Illuminating Barcelona

From 7^th – 9^th February 2025, Llum BCN will transform Barcelona’s Poblenou neighbourhood into a luminous canvas of art and technology. The annual festival, organised by Barcelona City Council, will feature light installations from 15 professional artists and creators, as well as 17 universities. The imaginative range of installations will include contemporary art, design and architecture, technology, and lighting design, turning the streets, squares, buildings, and parks into unmissable works of art. This year’s edition includes the chance to see artistic projects by photographer and conceptual artist Joan Fontcuberta, film director and scriptwriter Isaki Lacuesta, and the set designer, light artist and creator Laura Clos, Closca. More than 240,000 visitors saw the 2024 edition of the Llum BCN.

Experience the Magic of Nature: A Captivating Preview of Llum BCN 25 at ISE

Visitors to ISE 2025 will have the unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the enchanting world of Llum BCN 25 even before the official start of the festival. Alice Labourel, a French Art Director and Artist known for her innovative fusion of visual storytelling and new technologies, will showcase her extraordinary piece, “A Tiny Bead of Pure Life,” on Thursday, 6 February, at 18:30 on the award-winning South Access Welcome Screen at the Fira de Barcelona Gran Via. With her background in architecture and ballet, Labourel masterfully blends drawing, 3D modeling, mythology, and nature to create works that bridge the physical and virtual worlds.

“A Tiny Bead of Pure Life” is a mesmerizing 15-minute animated journey through surreal, abstract landscapes inspired by nature. Its slow, reflective pace unveils intricate details and tiny creatures, inviting viewers to ponder the minuteness of life. Inspired by Virginia Woolf’s novella The Death of the Moth, this work transforms the seemingly insignificant actions of small beings into profound lessons about existence.

This preview of Llum BCN 25 is a rare artistic experience, but the light arts festival itself is an exceptional reason to extend a stay in Barcelona after visiting ISE 2025. Don’t miss the chance to witness spellbinding performances and celebrate the city’s vibrant cultural life.

Mike Blackman, Managing Director of ISE, commented, “The collaboration between Llum BCN and Integrated Systems Europe represents a thrilling union of creativity and technology, showcasing how art and innovation can seamlessly intersect. Llum BCN, Barcelona’s renowned Light Arts Festival, transforms the urban landscape into a mesmerising spectacle of artistic ingenuity. Meanwhile, as the world’s premier AV and systems integration tech show, ISE gathers trailblazing technology and industry visionaries all under one roof. Together, we are building a bridge that connects the art and AV communities, pushing the boundaries of possibility and creating unforgettable shared experiences. I am especially excited to welcome Alice Labourel and her extraordinary artwork to ISE 2025. This partnership epitomises the synergy between art and technology, offering a stage for visionary creators to inspire and captivate, while deepening the bond between ISE and Barcelona’s vibrant cultural scene.”

Maria Güell Ordis, Llum’s Art Director, added, “Our goal is to transform the urban landscape into a luminous canvas of artistic creativity and technical and audio-visual innovation that both delights and challenges the audience. Each installation is a unique expression of imagination and innovation, pushing the boundaries of what light and art, together with the help of technology, can achieve.”

ISE 2025 promises to be the most dynamic and engaging show yet, with a host of new initiatives and features, an expanded and more easily accessible content program, as well as the unveiling of Hall 8.1 accessed via the conveniently located North Access point.

Discover more about Llum BCN at https://www.barcelona.cat/llumbcn/en.

To register, visit https://www.iseurope.org/ and use our exclusive code a1lightingmag for FREE registration!

The post ISE and Llum BCN: A fusion of creativity and technology at ISE 2025 appeared first on A1 Lighting Magazine.

An Inspector Calls tells the story of Inspector Goole who arrives unexpectedly at the prosperous Birling family home where they are hosting a dinner party. Yet their evening is soon shattered by his revelations into the death of a young woman; ones that shake the very foundations of their lives… Whilst the show has been touring often since its 1992 premiere, it actually had a life before this. Rick explains: “The first incarnation of this show took place in 1989 at the York Theatre Royal as part of their rep season. It was still in its infancy and was definitely developed further for The National’s production three years later; though the essence of the piece remained the same. The same could be said about my lighting design. Despite us now having worked on this piece for over thirty years, my design is still based on the 1992 production, which itself was built around the original rep rig for the Lyttleton Theatre. As such, when we return to the show every year or so, it’s a case of looking at how the advancements in technology can help enhance the look and feel of what we’re trying to achieve – essentially making sure it looks the best it’s ever been”.

When it comes to his design, there are three main side lighting positions which cover both the actors and the play’s action. Rick comments: “We have one position downstage of the proscenium arch, one upstage of the proscenium arch and then one further upstage from this. These positions were initially implemented due to the set design but we then realised, artistically, they created a very powerful look as well. We also light from above the Edwardian doll’s house and it’s important this has a cosy feel, to contrast the colder and somewhat alien ambience of when the actors are outside the house. Similarly, we also have to light the sky cloth as well as the rain curtain; both of which have very specific lighting specifications”.

Once again for this tour, Rick approached the Hire Team at WL to supply his lighting fixtures; with this rig being the most technologically advanced yet. He states: “Looking back at the show’s lighting over the past few years, we are slowly but surely bringing in more and more moving lights. For instance, with the overhead rig, this is made up entirely of Aryton Diablos. We wanted to be consistent with one unit that would work for all our needs – something that the Diablo does. Interestingly, we don’t use gobos or strobes and most of these moving lights don’t actually move! Instead they’re used as better functionality conventional lights that can be focused remotely. Similarly, by having more automated lights overhead, this has massively helped with the set-up of the show when it visits each venue. Rather than having to stop the technical fit-up for the overhead focus (which has happened in the past), this can all take place simultaneously given the fixtures can be controlled remotely.

Rick continues: “When it comes to lighting the sky cloth, the cloth itself is a beautifully hand-painted material, as opposed to something that’s printed; hence when you light it in certain ways, it can look incredibly different. For many years, we lit this using over 80 fresnels in a 6-7 colour wash and then mixed accordingly. Over time and various productions, this migrated down from 80 to 40 2K fresnels, before then changing again to about a dozen ETC Lustr 2s. Now is the first time it’s being lit by a selection of Diablos and looks the best it ever has in the show. Similarly, when it comes to the rain curtain, you could almost chart the history of lighting fixtures through what has lit this! We’ve moved from fresnels to Lekos to the original ETC Source Fours to PAR Battens and are now drawing on the GLP X4 Bars. Alongside the Diablos, these are the real workhorses of the rig and do a fantastic job”.

And whilst Rick’s aim on the show is to always “use the latest technology to ensure the show looks as good as possible”, that doesn’t mean the rig consists of entirely modern fixtures. He explains: “We still use the R&V Beam Light 500Ws which may now be venturing into the ‘classic fixture’’realm! That said, these offer a particularly special kind of light; one that is used to highlight the actors’ faces when it comes to crucial moments of the story, hence why I call them ‘confessional lights’. We also use a Patt 243 for another strong ‘work light’ effect. Thankfully, alongside their state-of-the-art fixtures, WL also has an extensive archive range which means I can then achieve the exact looks and feels I require”.

An Inspector Calls opened its latest tour back in August where it had a four-week run at a specially- reconfigured Alexandra Palace. It is currently at the Aylesbury Waterside Theatre and will continue visiting venues until May 2025.

Rick concludes: “An Inspector Calls has always been a very special piece and continues to have incredible resonance right to this very day. Whether it’s the audience of over 2,000 at Liverpool’s Empire Theatre or the fact we’re visiting more venues than ever, it’s a play that continues to speak to people and we have a great responsibility in helping create a night audiences won’t forget. For this tour, I’d like to say a huge thank you to Will Evans (my Associate Lighting Designer), Alex Hannah (my Touring Relighter and Electrician) and Michael Fox who programmes the show as well as developed some of the bespoke rigging for the lighting. I’d also like to say thanks to the team at WL who continue to support this show after thirty years and always work incredibly hard to provide something that fulfils our budgetary, artistic and logistical needs. They truly understand the show and what it needs, and that long-standing relationship is greatly valued”.

Image © Mark Douet.

The post An Inspector still ‘calls on’ White Light after almost 30 years appeared first on A1 Lighting Magazine.