direct from: www.etnow.com Regulars Contents this month News and Features Web Directory Features Issue: 361 National Theatre moves to LED with Martin Professional page 16 March 2023 Audiologic announces its work with ABC AV to launch a new permanent space themed immersive experience at The National Space Centre. Hugely successful Swedish pop supergroup GES continued a rollercoaster. The design featured an all-Robe lighting rig in the air. The 25th MOBO Awards rely on DiGiCo page: 12page: 14 page: 2 page: 4 to 28 pages: 29 to 31 DiGiCo’s SD10, SD12 and S21 consoles offered ultimate flexibility, sound quality and reliability to the MOBO Awards ceremony. Your Complete Hire Service. Visit our website hire.encore-emea.com or contact one of our friendly team via email or phone. w: encore-emea.com | t: 01664 821 111 | e: hire-uk@encoreglobal.com Professional portable power distribution for event, touring and mobile production facilities Neutrik UK is introducing the CONTRIK range of professional power distribution products which it debuted recently at Southern Manufacturing & Electronics 2023. CONTRIK extends the Neutrik Group’s product offering with a portfolio of power distribution systems, innovative equipotential bonding systems and premium-quality power cables, specifically designed and specified for portable indoor and all-weather harsh application environments. More on page 5 GES Circles Around with Robe page: 19 Audiologic at The National Space Centre contents this month March 2023 page no. Features page : 5 page : 7 page : 11 page : 10 TECHNICAL STANDARDS FOR PLACES OF ENTERTAINMENT Revised in July 2020 Available now from www.etbooks.co.uk 20 Ayrton Festival Fun in Switzerland As the European festival scene kicked back into action, Ayrton teamed up with some established Swiss rental companies to support festivals across the country and showcase some of Ayrton’s latest groundbreaking fixtures. 22 Claypaky partners with the Teatro Donizetti with Sinfonya Profile units In November 2022, Claypaky signed an agreement with the Teatro Donizetti to supply new Sinfonya Profile 600 moving heads, specially designed for use in theatres. 23 Narvik battle realism captured at movie world premiere through WPC 5.1 system The Netflix film, Narvik, was held in Narvik itself with a big outdoor cinema especially created in the town square, which was free for everyone. The realism of the battle, and the associated sound effects, were authentically captured by a Martin Audio Wavefront Precision line array deployment in 5.1 surround. 24 Significant Investment in Latest Equipment Puts WL on Right Track for Christmas Trails WL once again supplied the Christmas Trails in 2022 and not only invested in several new fixtures for the illuminations but also helped develop a new unit that is now part of the company’s extensive hire stock. 26 Anolis Helps Re-Light Gerland Park in Lyon Anolis ArcPar 150 Outdoor luminaires have been installed for a ground-breaking urban lighting renovation scheme in and around the vibrant Gerland Park district of Lyon, France. 28 Leyard Europe supplies one of Europe’s largest indoor LED screens H&M unveiled its redesigned flagship store on London’s Regent Street, featuring cutting-edge, generative artwork displayed on a double 4k resolution LED screen from Leyard Europe. 12 Audiologic works with ABC AV to deliver a futuristic experience at The National Space Centre Audiologic announces its work with ABC AV to launch a new permanent space themed immersive experience at The National Space Centre. 14 GES Circles Around with Robe Hugely successful Swedish pop supergroup GES continued a rollercoaster tour that started in 2021, wrapping up 2022 with a 33-date sold-out residency at Stockholm’s famous Cirkus venue. The design featured two truss circles and a curved LED screen on an automation system, with an all-Robe lighting rig in the air. 16 National Theatre moves to LED standardisation with Martin Professional The Lyttelton Theatre, the middle-sized of the three venues that make up the National Theatre complex on London’s South Bank, has recently undergone a complete lighting upgrade, replacing the last of its tungsten and discharge automated heads with an almost all-Martin LED rig. 18 Theatre Indigo Colours Up with Astera NYX Bulbs Spanish lighting designer Antonio Arrabal used Astera NYX Bulbs to illuminate a series of scenic spheres that were an integral narrative element of the Índigo Teatro company’s latest production, Viaje al Planeta de Todo es Posible which premiered at the Cánovas Theatre in Malaga. 19 The 25th MOBO Awards rely on DiGiCo to deliver the UK’s celebration of music of black origin The MOBO Awards, which recognise and celebrate black music and culture, returned for its 25th year in October last year. The annual ceremony took place at the OVO Arena Wembley, where a star-studded line- up of artists including Nile Rodgers, Kojey Radical, Tion Wayne, Fireboy DML, Cat Burns, FLO and Eliza Rose all performing on the night. DiGiCo’s SD10, SD12 and S21 digital mixing consoles offering ultimate flexibility, sound quality and reliability to the technically challenging event.from the editor direct from: www.etnow.com Entertainment Technology is published 12 times a year in conjunction with the leading industry portal www.etnow.com Editor: John Offord Production: Jackie Staines Published by: ET Press Ltd The Studio, High Green Great Shelford Cambridge CB22 5EG Telephone: +44 (0)1223 550805 Fax: +44 (0)1223 550806 Website: www.etnow.com email: editor@etnow.com © ET Press Ltd. Subscription Rates: Annual Subscription for 12 issues (UK): £27.50 Annual Subscription (overseas): £50.00 Subject to acceptance, subscription is free to UK based industry professionals. Subscribe online at: www.etnow.com/etmag/ Opinions expressed in Entertainment Technology are not necessarily those of the publishers. All rights are reserved and reproduction of any part in whatever form is prohibited without the prior permission of the publishers. etnow.com (entertainment technology news on web) is the industry portal site with news from around the world added daily under various sector headings coupled to an extensive archive. The site also features a books section where titles from ET Press can be ordered online via our secure Sage Pay credit card services. Issue: 361 Theatres Trust announces Theatres at Risk Register 2023 Theatres Trust, the charity that campaigns to protect the UK’s theatres, has published its annual Theatres at Risk Register, which highlights theatres across the UK under threat of closure, redevelopment or severe decay, but which all have the potential to be revived for their local communities. Theatres Trust has removed three theatres from the list, which are no longer considered at risk due to advocacy, planning and viability advice from Theatres Trust, along with the vital support of their respective local authorities, theatre operators and community groups Century Theatre, a unique travelling theatre that toured the country in the post-war years, is now looking more secure in its permanent home in Coalville, Leicestershire. It had been threatened by the redevelopment of its site and had been added to the Theatres at Risk Register in 2014, but it is now better integrated into the local area and able to serve the local community with improved facilities. Walthamstow Granada, a Grade II* listed ciné-variety theatre, had been empty and deteriorating until it was bought by Waltham Forest Council in 2019, with Soho Theatre Company on board as the operator. Having undergone a major refurbishment programme, it will reopen later this year as Soho Theatre Walthamstow, an exciting new London venue offering a mix of comedy, theatre, music and community activities. The third building to be removed, Swansea Palace Theatre, is a distinctive Victorian music hall that has been on the Theatres at Risk list since it started in 2006. The building will not be reopening as a theatre but as office space, with the ability to accommodate small-scale performances and events. It was evident that there was not the demand in the city to make another theatre viable, so this sensitive scheme by Swansea Council (funded by the European Regional Development Fund and the Welsh Government, via its Transforming Towns programme), protects the building’s historic features and could easily be reversed in the future, making it the best outcome in this situation. Theatres Trust is advocated for by high profile supporters including Gary Kemp and David Morrissey. Musician, actor and Theatres Trust board member Gary Kemp says: “It is fantastic to see three significant theatres being removed from the Theatres at Risk list, as a result of campaigning and advice from Theatres Trust as well as the dedication of councils and local communities. The Theatres at Risk list is about finding the best use for buildings within their communities, so they can be enjoyed for many years to come, and these three theatres are shining examples of that.” Now in its 17th year, the Theatres at Risk Register calls the public’s attention to these important buildings, their challenges and the significant cultural opportunities they can bring to local communities. Since the list began in 2006, more than 80 theatres have been restored, revived or had a suitable replacement built. This year’s list comprises 38 buildings, which all have strong architectural merit, cultural heritage or value to the local community as a performance venue. Although they remain on the list, there has been good news for Spilsby’s Sessions House, which is a key project in a successful Levelling Up bid, and for Morecambe Winter Gardens, which will benefit from the same fund in the go-ahead to the neighbouring Eden Project North. Steady progress is also being made at other theatres remaining on the list, including Burnley Empire, Leith Theatre and Theatre Royal Margate, but these theatres face the same challenges as the wider sector, particularly escalating construction work costs and scarcity of funding amidst the fallout of the pandemic, cost-of-living crisis and the energy crisis. Elsewhere on the list, the situation is looking bleak for Dudley Hippodrome and the Intimate Theatre in Enfield, where redevelopment plans that will lead to their demolition look certain to go ahead despite strong opposition by Theatres Trust and their local communities. Dudley Hippodrome, the only remaining lyric theatre in the town, is on a site approved for a new university centre. The Intimate Theatre, where a number of stars including Richard Attenborough and David Bowie performed early in their careers, will be redeveloped to build a new parish hall and residential accommodation No additional theatres were added to the Theatres at Risk Register this year, despite the challenging environment faced by theatres due to the ongoing effects of the pandemic, the cost-of-living crisis and funding cuts and shortfalls. Theatres Trust continues to provide free advice and support with the aim of preventing more theatres from reaching the critical stage of being added to the At Risk list, particularly taking into account the difficult challenges facing theatres this year and the resulting pressures being put on theatre buildings. Theatres Trust director Jon Morgan says: “As the true impact of rising construction and energy costs, cost-of-living crisis and squeezed council budgets becomes known, the challenge to secure the futures of Theatres at Risk will be more difficult than ever and there is a real fear that more operational theatres may become ‘at risk’. However, despite the difficulties, local support and collaborative working still pays off and the opportunities these buildings offer their communities are immense.” Theatres Trust has recently launched Resilient Theatres: Resilient Communities, a new support and training programme aimed at helping Theatres at Risk and theatres in danger of becoming at risk. This is a three- year project made possible by a grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, and funding from the Pilgrim Trust and Swire Charitable Trust. The programme aims to reduce the threat to At Risk theatres and strengthen the sector’s resilience, by supporting communities operating theatre buildings, and communities considering taking over a theatre building. Assessment criteria for each theatre is available via www.theatrestrust.org. uk/how-we-help/theatres-at-risk/theatres-at-risk-assessment-criteria and full case studies on each can be seen on the Theatres Trust website.March 2023 news 4 sunDial quad www.ArtisticLicence.com Dims LED close to zero! For the smoothest fades with dimmable replacement LED Trailing edge DMX512/RDM mains dimmer ABTT Launches MAKE A DiFFERENCE Conference The Association of British Theatre Technicians (ABTT) has announced the launch of the MAKE A DiFFERENCE conference, an annual proactive conference day committed to finding solutions to current industry issues. The conference will be more than simply talking, attendees will be asked to commit to taking action and developing strategies to achieve solutions for the issues discussed. The first MAKE A DiFFERENCE conference will be held on Friday 21st April 2023 in the Ambassadors Lounge, Lyceum Theatre, 21 Wellington Street, London WC2E 7RQ, with thanks to Ambassador Theatre Group for their support of this event. The theme for this year’s discussion is Solving our Industry’s Recruitment & Retention Crisis. The MAKE A DiFFERENCE conference has been developed to continue the great joined-up thinking that is happening in the many ABTT seminars which are convened throughout the year and at the ABTT Theatre Show. With support of academic theatre production staff from Guildford School of Acting the ABTT shall facilitate these continuing discussions at the conference and provide a more focused proactive platform to encourage actions and find practical solutions to move forward with industry issues. ABTT co-chair and senior lecturer at Guildford School of Acting, Mig Burgess Walsh commented: “I am excited to see what this conference can achieve. It’s my privilege in my role as co-chair of the ABTT to attend many exciting and passionate seminars and talks from all parts of our industry. I hope this conference will provide a focused time away from busy trade shows so that we can think, consider, collaborate and commit to real actions. I can’t wait to be in a room with dedicated people united by a desire to find solutions to the current recruitment and retention crisis. I’m excited that we will all be aligned in our goal to make a real difference!” Robin Townley, ABTT chief executive, commented: “The ABTT is very pleased to facilitate this opportunity to harness our industry’s collective commitment and talent for developing and implementing solutions and to provide a space and time, with the generous collaboration of ATG and GSA, to allow a focused effort to tackle this huge challenge our sector is experiencing. We very much hope that the MAKE A DiFFERENCE initiative will be a real help in resolving the challenges that our industry faces now and in the future.” The ABTT is inviting people, businesses and organisations to sign up and join in with the campaign to “MAKE A DiFFERENCE”. Spaces are limited so to join in let them know by expressing interest via elysia@abtt. org.uk with the title “MAKE A DiFFERENCE conference 2023”. As part of the commitment to attend, the ABTT will ask those participating to agree to do more than just join them on the day, but also agree to leave with clear and feasible actions that will help improve recruitment and retention in the industry. To help the ABTT obtain opinions and ideas ahead of the event, it has launched a very short survey, inviting anyone from the industry to participate, get involved and share their thoughts. Please go to https://surreyfbel.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_ eaZxQh5v8U6wjcy?jfefe=new to join in and offer your thoughts and ideas on the issues of staff recruitment and retention. The results from this survey will guide the development and structure of the conference, and give the association some data to help it move forward, welcome and look forward to gaining your insight and taking your views to the conference day in April. Newton Works Hard for Blues Rock Powerhouse Michael Grabarczyk (pictured) is a freelance audio technician and an early adopter of Outline’s unique Newton FPGA-based processor. In recent years he has handled system technical duties for the American guitarist Joe Bonamassa, working with Mike Lavielle at FOH and an L-Acoustics K2 system provided by SES (Special Event Services). Bonamassa spends a great deal of time on the road and plays a huge range of venues, from large outdoor spaces to venues such as London’s Royal Albert Hall, to ‘Blues Cruises’ on ships and even club dates in Liverpool’s legendary Cavern Club, presenting a continuous range of challenges to his sound crew. Michael shares some of his thoughts and experiences of using Newton in a variety of settings with the blues-rock superstar: “The Newton has replaced multiple other units, both in my drive rack at FOH and in amp racks, to accomplish all the same processes in a 1RU rack device. The functionality and I/O in such a small package is seriously impressive,” comments Michael. “Given the vast amount of I/O per Newton and tools available on each output it made the Albert Hall – normally a challenging venue – a breeze. I was able to drive and control every subsystem individually from one Newton at FOH that we travelled with. Whether it’s our normal tour rig, or dealing with a house rig, there hasn’t been a scenario yet where Newton wasn’t the correct tool for the gig.” In addition to himself, Bonamassa’s seven-piece band features a second guitarist, drummer, bassist, keys, plus two backing vocalists and Newton’s facilities even help Michael to deal with the line-up: “Not just for Joe, but other gigs as well. The layers of EQ and variety of tools available on each output keep my FOH engineer, as well as occasional guest engineers and bands, happy if different tunings are required, but also keep my artist comfortable on stage. The WFIR filters are very neutral sounding and transparent. There’s no audible or measurable colouration other than the EQ being applied.” “All my overall system optimisation is done inside of Newton with a combination of the WFIR filters, IIR, All-Pass filters, level control and delay.” On top of all that, Michael’s single favourite feature in Newton is the clock management. “The asynchronous sample rate converters [ASRC] have eliminated all major headaches of handling digital inputs from multiple consoles at festivals and with support acts.” In addition to his real-world use of Newton, Michael has also been Beta-testing upgrades to the Dashboard software and has clearly enjoyed the process: “How Outline takes feedback from end users into consideration is incredible. I was quite impressed to see some of my suggestions for the GUI implemented into updates.” He concludes: “The Newton is my go-to FOH processor. I will continue to use it with Bonamassa, but have also used it on a multitude of festivals and can’t imagine doing them without it now. I will continue to spec and use it on all my future gigs and tours.”Issue: 361 news 5 Electric Airshows joins the industry’s leading lights Electric Airshows, the brand new company offering aerial drone light shows to the UK events industry, has announced its membership of PLASA, the UK-based Professional Lighting and Sound Association and ARPAS- UK, the only trade association focused on the UK drone community. Electric Airshows, which officially announced its arrival at the start of 2023, has been a long time in development. Headed by two well- known figures from the entertainment production industry, Chris Crockford and Ian Lomas, the company is now offering an initial fleet of 100 drones, purchased from leading Chinese drone show specialist, DAMODA Intelligent Control Technology. The company plans to reach a total of 500 drones – the limit allowed by the UK’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) – by mid-2023, making it a major player in the UK’s emerging drone show market. In being accepted by PLASA, Electric Airshows becomes the first ever dedicated outdoor drone show provider in the Association’s membership. Commenting on his company’s PLASA membership, Crockford says: “It’s quite something to be at the start of a whole new branch of the entertainment industry and to be welcomed and supported by the PLASA family that we’ve known for so long. We’re really looking forward to playing our part.” As the leading international trade body for the world’s entertainment technology and production market, PLASA represents the top players in the industry, promoting best practice and skills development, publishing safety standards and industry research, and facilitating trade and networking opportunities. ARPAS-UK, the Association of Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems, supports members including start-ups, established operations, operators, manufacturers, software and service companies through promotion of innovation and best practice. It works closely with industry regulators, in particular the CAA (Civil Aviation Authority), UK Government departments and other key stakeholders to the benefit of its members and the industries they serve. Crockford already has a rich history with PLASA, having twice been honoured by the prestigious PLASA Awards for Innovation. The first time was in 2006 for the mDMX wireless DMX system which he developed for Avolites, and the second was in 2012 for the Super2fer, by Digital & Future Technologies, which enabled the transmission of audio, video and DMX signals over mains. Crockford concludes: “We’re proud to be members of both PLASA and ARPAS and importantly, to see the convergence of entertainment technology, the creative industries and aviation. It’s a very exciting time.” Blackthorn Productions upgrades OB truck with DiGiCo SD12 96 Blackthorn Productions has been working with BBC radio and television in Northern Ireland for 30 years, handling many of their outside broadcasts in Belfast, as well as religious radio broadcasts for BBC NI and Radio 2, 3, 4 and 5 Live, and various television shows. It has recently upgraded its largest OB truck, replacing a 12-year- old console that had served the company well with a DiGiCo SD12 96 and SD-Rack with 32-bit SD cards. “Our old console had been great, but was simply at the end of its life,” says Blackthorn’s David Walker. “Working on live broadcasts means we need ultimate reliability, so we knew it was time for a new console. We started researching what would work best for us.” The team talked to PA companies they we work with and found they have a good relationship with DiGiCo. “DiGiCo, and the SD12 96 in particular, kept coming out on top for our needs,” continues Walker. “And, as luck would have it, it was the perfect size to slot straight into the space of our previous console.” Walker and the team were immediately impressed with DiGiCo’s audio quality. “I didn’t believe it would make that much difference until I heard it,” he says. “Particularly on orchestras, the background noise was greatly reduced. I was surprised as I hadn’t noticed it was there until it wasn’t. The SD12 96 give us much more clarity.” One of the first jobs with the new console was for Ash, who were headlining at the NI Music Awards for the BBC, and for a festival performance for Sister Sledge, which was broadcast live on Radio Ulster. “It’s worked perfectly,” Walker notes. “And we’ve found that when we’re using 96 channels of splits for some of their larger orchestral projects, we can work from two SD-Racks, using the MADI split option with gain tracking, with the main server running reverb and compressors, which is ideal.” Walker also appreciates DiGiCo’s support, which he says has been fast, friendly and helpful. “Because pretty much everyone over here has adopted DiGiCo, it means we all speak the same language,” he concludes. “I have 56 channels of 32 bit processing and the ubiquity of the system means I can get another rack over here seamlessly if I need it. The Madi splits and gain tracking for gigs has been amazing. In fact, overall, DiGiCo has been a bit revolutionary for us.” www.digico.biz Professional portable power distribution for event, touring and mobile production facilities Neutrik UK is introducing the CONTRIK range of professional power distribution products which it debuted recently at Southern Manufacturing & Electronics 2023. CONTRIK extends the Neutrik Group’s product offering with a portfolio of power distribution systems, innovative equipotential bonding systems and premium-quality power cables, specifically designed and specified for portable indoor and all-weather harsh application environments. Employing automated precision manufacturing processes within the EU, together with high-quality components and materials, CONTRIK systems offer unsurpassed levels of quality, safety and reliability, and provide for reductions in cabling costs, complexity and man-hours. CONTRIK’s state-of-the-art multicore solutions further reduce complexity and cable volumes for demanding mobile and outdoor applications; these include pre-assembled multicore cables, power containers and power racks with multicore outputs, and highly protected multicore turtles for distribution and daisy chaining.March 2023 news 6 The ALPD Design Lumiere Scheme 2023 The ALPD has announced that applications are now open for the Design Lumière Scheme 2023. Established by the ALPD in 2015, the Lumière Scheme is an exciting professional development programme that provides pathways into the industry for emerging lighting practitioners and designers. After a successful partnering with Glyndebourne in 2022, the ALPD is pleased that this partnership will take place once again in 2023. A pathway scheme for emerging lighting designers, the Design Lumière Scheme gives the successful candidate valuable experience of working professionally as an assistant lighting designer for six months. For the first three months, the Lumière will be placed at Glyndebourne, assisting visiting lighting designers within the lighting and AV department. In the second stage, the Lumière will be matched with a number of established lighting designers and will spend a total of three months assisting them, travelling around the country. Alongside this, each Lumière will receive a bespoke package of mentoring and support, a toolkit for how to survive and thrive as a lighting designer: anything from getting an agent and building a portfolio to navigating challenging situations. The Lumière may have the opportunity to take on associate lighting designer roles toward the end of their attachments. Previous Lumières include Charlotte Burton, Rachel Cleary, Alex Musgrave and Jason Addison. Edward Saunders, the 2022 Lumière said that the scheme made a significant impact, adding: “The Lumière scheme is already proving to be the formative and invigorating opportunity that my career was ready for, keeping the learning curve steep, the ambition high and broadening my horizons for what a future in lighting design can look like.” Applications are welcome from anyone who has a minimum of one year’s professional experience working in the industry. (The ALPD cannot accept anyone who is currently in full-time education.) The ALPD is committed to inclusivity and is actively encouraging applications from those who feel they are currently under- represented in the UK theatre industry. The association would also like to encourage applicants who may have moved away from theatre for various reasons and want to return to the industry. You do not need to be a member of the ALPD to apply for the Design Lumière Scheme. Applications close on 3rd March. Further information about the position and how to apply can be found at: https:// thealpd.org.uk/lumiere Hippotizer v4.8 launches with Show Manager, Preset Timeline and Integration enhancements Green Hippo has unveiled a Hippotizer v4.8 software update for its range of media servers, packing in an exciting range of new and upgraded features designed to power-up real-time media manipulation, playback and mapping. A major enhancement is Show Manager, facilitating complete control of multiple productions and installations at once. It allows users to easily save and load various shows on one Hippotizer media server, simplifying show management and switching between events. Within this, shows can be duplicated to enable quick modifications without affecting the primary show data, and each show can be easily labelled for one-glance referencing. For productions run by multiple users of one machine, shows can be locked to protect them from any unwanted edits, and the popular HippoLauncher can now be controlled by TCP Commands allowing to start up or switch into the designed show. Also upgraded is TimelinePlus, where pre-recorded looks can be easily transferred onto the Preset Timeline for quick, easy show programming. The Hippotizer SHAPE tool introduces Dockable Windows, aiding customisable workspace management and enhancing 3D project visbility. And the Hippotizer team has upgraded the built-in integration. Notable is the NDI update to version 5.5, which includes game changing features to its media over IP protocol, allowing for more creative freedom connecting any device with any location. “We’re thrilled to bring the next level of features to Hippotizer, which are all designed to improve workflow and deliver more power to our end users and designers,” says Zep Mouris, product manager. “The Hippotizer team consistently works hard to implement more and more world- class features in each update and 4.8.0 is something we’re very proud of. We know Hippotizer users are powering some of the most exciting projects on the planet right now, and we hope 4.8.0 can feed into them all. We can’t wait for you to try the new features out!” Hippotizer 4.8.0 is available for download now from the Green Hippo website, at https://support. green-hippo.com where a full list of the new and upgraded features can be found. www.green-hippo.com Registration now open for PLASA Focus Leeds 2023 Now in its 15th year, PLASA Focus Leeds is set to return to the Royal Armouries for another year, from 9-10 May 2022. Free to attend, the popular regional event connects thousands of professionals with many of the biggest names in live entertainment technology. With a sold-out show floor, PLASA Focus Leeds is set to be a powerful platform for networking and discovery. Over 150 brands representing pro audio, AV, lighting, rigging and staging will span two halls, offering visitors to opportunity to see new products up close while speaking face to face with potential new suppliers. Headline sponsor Ambersphere will showcase the latest from Astera, Ayrton, MA Lighting, Robert Juliat and Zactrack. Lighting professionals can also look forward to meeting Artistic Licence, Avolites, Chauvet Professional, ETC, GLP UK, Robe and Vari-Lite. Top quality pro audio is also on offer from Bose, d&b audiotechnik, EM Acoustics, Funktion One, KV2 Audio, Martin Audio, Nexo and Shure UK. Heavyweights in rigging and staging technologies will also be in attendance, such as Area Four Industries, Doughty Engineering, Triple E and UK Rigging. Not only that, cutting edge AV can be seen at the stands of Epson, PSCo Group. And innovative accessories will be on show courtesy of Drapemakers, Harlequin Floors, J&C Joel and NSP Cases. A free programme will run alongside the action on the show floor, with back-to-back sessions aimed to help visitors’ expand their knowledge and elevate their careers. Last year’s programme included sessions on technical standards, event management, sustainability, and pandemic recovery, each led by respected specialists and thought leaders. Plenty of interactive experiences are available at PLASA Focus Leeds too, with hands-on training sessions and immersive live audio demos; they’re the perfect way for old hands to upskill and new-starters to gain an introduction to professional products. All this and more will be revealed in 2023 programme in the coming weeks. PLASA’s head of events, Sophie Atkinson, comments: “It’s been quite the year for the live sector, from the Platinum Jubilee to the return of Glastonbury Festival, all while facing shortages across the board. We look forward to reflecting all this hard work at PLASA Focus Leeds and showcasing the products that make events like these possible. Register for your free entry badge today and we’ll see you there!” PLASA Focus Leeds will take place from 9-10 May at Royal Armouries. Register free at https://register.visitcloud.com/survey/20yl1kqvmkt0h?actioncode=NTWO 000035GXL.Issue: 361 news 7 Helix S5000 Q4 Tel.: +44 1249 819494 | E-mail: uksales@highlite.com | www.highlite.comFOLLOW US: Helix S5000 Q4 • 40x 10 W RGBW LED Washer • IP65 rated, suitable for outdoor applications • 10° beam angle • Optional beam shapers for widening beam angle • 5-section control Barndoor • Tophat • Beamshapers 10° to 60° x 15° • 10° to 20° • 10° to 90° • 10° to 40° Audient Releases New iD24 Audio Interface British audio specialist Audient introduces the new ten in / 14 out audio interface, iD24. Designed to make recordings better, it slots neatly between the iD14 and the more recently launched iD44 in terms of functionality and boasts the much coveted audio performance and feature set associated with the iD range. Andy Allen from Audient says: “iD24 is made with producers and engineers in mind. We’ve combined astonishing audio performance with ease of use whilst providing more features aimed at professionals such as balanced inserts, ADAT expandability and customisable monitor control.” iD24 features two Audient Console mic preamps which, as with every iD interface, are the same discrete circuit design as those found in the flagship ASP8024-HE console. The class leading converters utilise 32-bit DAC converter technology which deliver a massive 126dB of dynamic range. “We want to ensure our customers can hear their audio with incredible clarity. Being able to hear those subtle details is really important as it helps users to feel more confident when making recording and mix decisions,” explains Andy. “We know the modern engineer often needs to be ready to handle bigger sessions like recording drums or a live band, and iD24’s optical input and output connections give you the ability to scale up your rig quickly and cost effectively,” he continues. Supporting both ADAT and SPDIF, iD24 gives the option to boost input capabilities by adding up to eight channels of external mic preamps. Describing the advantages of iD24’s balanced inserts, Andy says: “For those customers who love their outboard, iD24 gives them the ability to integrate their favourite outboard FX into their signal chains when recording. Additionally, utilising the insert returns gives direct access to the A/D converters providing the cleanest signal path possible, which gives users the ability to process stems using outboard.” This also gives Audient customers the option of bypassing the Audient mic preamp altogether if necessary and utilising external mic preamps instead. Maintaining a focus on workflow, any of the advanced monitoring features, including speaker select, talkback, polarity invert and mono can be assigned to any of the three programmable function buttons. This gives users the ability to customise their set-up and take advantage of pro features like quickly alternating between speakers, referencing a mix in mono or communicating with the artist, all directly from the hardware. iD24 is fully bus powered via a USB-C connection and benefits from the addition of dual headphones outputs, four line outputs and a dedicated low latency software mixer. Mike Bradford Joins Push The Button Long serving director of operations at the Birmingham Hippodrome, Mike Bradford has joined Push The Button (PTB) as chief operating officer. Mike has been at the Birmingham Hippodrome for 21 Years and before that worked at Alton Towers as technical manager. PTB managing director, Nick Ewins says: “Looking ahead into 2023 and beyond, I am keen to ensure that we have the best possible standards in our business systems and operations which Mike will deliver. Mike’s arrival will also allow me to continue working with our customers, designing and delivering projects as PTB continues to grow.” Mike adds: “I’ve worked with Nick and the team at PTB for more than two decades now, so I understand the business and I am delighted to be able to bring my experience to the company.”March 2023 news 8 Ayrton launches IP65-rated Domino Wash Ayrton presents Domino Wash, its first IP65-rated wash fixture that has been developed for outdoor use. This professional, smart luminaire opens up a whole new world of versatility for concerts, performing arts, theme parks and film shoots. Domino Wash has a 210mm Fresnel lens with a specific optical structure designed to accurately adapt the diffusion level according to requirements. This optical combination not only favours the use of framing shutter blades or geometric gobos, but significantly improves colour mix and can produce 10% more light than with a classic Fresnel lens F.O.S. To cover all types of use, Domino Wash is available in three flicker-free versions, S, TC and the entirely new ST or ‘Stage & Theatre’ version. The ST version is fitted with a new monochromatic LED source that delivers a light output of 45,000 lumens and a D65 white point that allows perfect colour reproduction with a CRI greater than 80. In common with many other Ayrton fixtures, the ‘Stage’ or ‘S’ version provides a cooler, metallic light with a record luminous flux of 52,000 lumens, a colour temperature of 7000K and a CRI of 70. The ‘True Colour’ or ‘TC’ version offers a colour rendering index greater than 95 with extremely high TM30 values and a colour temperature of 6000 Kelvin to deliver perfect colour rendering. Domino Wash’s proprietary optical system delivers a 12:1 zoom ratio and a zoom range of 6.2° at half peak to 75° at one- tenth peak. It shares the same complex colour mixing system with Huracán Wash, offering a double level of CMY saturation that can obtain 281 trillion colours and a triple corrector for variable colour temperature, allowing subtle adjustment from 2700 K to 15000 K and significant CRI improvement T.C.S. Like all Ayrton products, Domino Wash is factory-equipped with full features. These include a four-shutter framing section for accurate shutter cuts across a 100% surface area in all positions, a wheel of seven rotating glass gobos, a 15-blade iris diaphragm, a frost and an RGB and CMY animation wheel. Domino Wash also has Ayrton’s liquid cooling system fitted with six submersible fans outside its weatherproof enclosure. An all-terrain luminaire developed for resisting hot or cold weather, wind, rain, hail, sand or dust, Domino Wash aims to create unprecedented, incomparable and simply stunning atmospheres. Domino Wash forms an exceptional trilogy with Domino Profile and Domino LT and is the latest addition to Ayrton’s Classical 9 Series range. Entertainment power courses lay ‘PAT testing’ to rest New professional training which provides the very latest guidance on the In-service Inspection and Testing of Electrical Equipment (ISITEE) – including why the term ‘PAT Testing’ should now be considered a thing of the past – has been announced. Presented by James Eade, the UK’s leading expert on electrical power safety for entertainment environments, the hugely popular JET 2377 courses will be available in Bristol on on 17-18 May 2023. The course brings attendees up to date with the important changes introduced by the revised 5th edition of the IET Code of Practice on In-service Inspection and Testing of Electrical Equipment, written by James himself. Among the major developments that everyone should be aware of is that what was commonly called ‘PAT testing’ – the process of inspection and checks on equipment while in-service – is now out of date, replaced by the latest guidance. Designed by James Eade, the two-day course is aimed at increasing understanding of the need for a holistic approach to the management of electrical equipment in the workplace, as well as the practicalities of actually doing so. The course focuses squarely on the entertainment and events industry but can be tailored for other industries. It puts the IET guidance and requirements in the Code of Practice into a context that will make sense to (and prove invaluable to) anyone with responsibility for electrical equipment and systems including rental companies, technicians, freelancers and venue managers alike. Of the JET 2377 courses, James says: “We’re seeing increased competition in the events and entertainment marketplace, with properly skilled crew in ever-greater demand. Because of this, the need for best practice in electrical systems has never been greater. Having the latest knowledge and reliable equipment ensures not only peace of mind, but optimum safety and performance for all concerned.” James, who trained almost 500 professionals in event, touring, theatre, film and television during 2022 alone, is also chairman of the British Standard 7909 committee, which deals with the management of temporary electrical systems for events. For more information on courses, pricing and availability, or to sign up to receive emailed updates, visit the website at //eade.uk.com UK-based A.C. Worldwide Group announces some new appointments as part of its successful strategy for continual growth UK – Phill Capstick, who has been with the business for 37 years, will step up to the role of CEO in UK based A.C. Entertainment Technologies and, following 25 years of success, Jonathan Walters becomes the company’s managing director. In other UK news, Andy Dodd will be retiring from his executive role on the board of Flashlight Ltd, but the company has announced that he has accepted a non-executive directorship so will still be helping the Flashlight team and their loyal customers. USA/Canada – Across the Atlantic, the sales and distribution businesses operating as A.C. Americas (incorporating A.C. Lighting and A.C. Promedia) will be led by long-serving board member Phill Capstick who is appointed as CEO. Joining him on the board as president, after six years as vice president of business development, is Jean-Louis Blanchard, and following sales success for the company over the last 18 years, Fred Mikeska joins the board as executive vice president of sales. The group’s manufacturing operations in Canada, Spectrum Manufacturing Inc, is continuing to develop the successful Chroma-Q range of premium LED lighting products and the company has announced that Gary Aird, who joined the business less than two years ago as vice-president of finance and administration, has been appointed to the board. All appointments are effective from the 1st February and A.C. Worldwide Group wishes all appointees much continued success. In picture: Jonathan Walters, David Leggett and Phill Capstick www.ac-et.comIssue: 361 news 9 ROE Visual UK Hires Industry Veteran David March ROE Visual announces the appointment of David March as business development director live events/rental for the UK. Looking to expand its UK activities further and strengthen the UK operation, ROE Visual welcomes this seasoned industry veteran on board. The subsidiary ROE Visual UK sales office offers direct support and service in the regional market to enhance and grow ROE Visual’s sales opportunities in the UK. David March brings a wealth of experience and a broad network of lighting designers to the team. Throughout his career in the live event business, David has gained in- depth insights into both the creative, technical as well as commercial side of the industry. His career spans work experience at AED, VER, Green Hippo, and 4wall, which enables him to understand and serve ROE Visual’s client base from various perspectives. Based on his extensive experience in the live event industry and equipped with good humour and a keen understanding of business relationships, David is delighted to start in his new position: “I consider myself lucky to have befriended hundreds of talented people and been part of many amazing businesses in areas like lighting and video production rental, lighting and control manufacturing/distribution. Building engagement and working in a team that shares the same motivation is very inspiring,” says David. “As I could experience during my first week at the ISE exhibition, ROE Visual is undoubtedly recognised as a high-quality brand that stands out with high-quality products and a loyal customer base. It makes me very eager to start to explore future possibilities.” With the appointment of David March, ROE Visual is better positioned to understand the requirements of the creatives involved in the live event and touring industry and translate these demands into innovative LED-based solutions. “We’re delighted to add David to our UK team,” comments Nick Shaw. “It will strengthen our position in the UK market and contribute to the growth of ROE Visual as a global company.” David March started his work at ROE Visual UK just before the ISE exhibition. “An overwhelming but perfect introduction,” as David commented. David will be introduced to ROE Visual’s UK-based clients in the coming weeks, including his presence at the upcoming TPI Awards. Clear-Com Welcomes Ben Turnwell as New Regional Sales Manager for UK, Ireland and Israel Clear-Com has announced the appointment of Ben Turnwell as regional sales manager for UK, Ireland and Israel. Ben previously worked at leading AV system providers Solotech, Autograph Sound and Amber Sound, all of which are also Clear-Com partners. Ben’s background lies primarily in technical theatre, where he has worked in project management of systems integration for shows in regional theatres in Europe, as well as large West End productions like Aladdin, Mary Poppins and, most proudly for him, Hamilton. As a long-time fan of Clear-Com technology, he was also responsible for integrating an extensive FreeSpeak digital wireless system into the 2018 Ed Sheeran “÷” World Tour during his time at Autograph. “Ben’s experience in both sales and the technical side of audio integration makes him an excellent asset to Clear-Com,” said Chris Willis, senior VP of worldwide sales. “We are pleased to have him aboard to help us grow and strengthen our business in the UK, Ireland and Israel territories.” Ben is eager to begin representing the Clear-Com brand and is particularly interested in delving into the wide breadth of markets the company serves. “I have a lot of experience in the live events side, but I am excited to get more involved in other areas where Clear-Com shines, such as broadcast and marine,” he said. “I’m looking forward to deepening my knowledge of the various verticals and supporting our users and partners throughout my territory.” Ben holds a Bachelor of Arts, First Degree in Theatre Production from Queen Margaret University and lives in London with his wife and their Bernese Mountain Dog, Florence. In his spare time, he enjoys live music, watching rugby and travelling all over the world with his wife. Ben can be reached via email. AirLight aims for the stars with Ayrton Located at the heart of Amsterdam’s famous night life, the former dairy, Melkweg (Milky Way), is a popular music and cultural venue that hosts major concerts, acts and performances. With four spaces under one roof and embracing all music styles, Melkweg’s variety of artists and audiences is well-known worldwide. Recently Melkweg celebrated a major upgrade to its lighting grids, adding 52 Ayrton Diablo profile fixtures to its inventory, supplied by full-service consultant Airlight of Utrecht, headed by Ruud Pouwels. Pouwels, with his rich experience as lighting engineer, has for many years served as a lighting consultant for theatres and clubs, and provides a full and worry-free package of lighting services that includes 24/7 technical backup. Assisting his customers in the selection, commissioning and servicing of equipment, Ruud explains his choice of the Diablo for Melkweg: “Besides Diablo’s obvious build quality, output and features, we faced two other important criteria: the fixture should be internationally accepted and rider- friendly and, since the fixtures are hung on a fixed grid, they had to be so light that they can be handled by a single engineer using a manlift. The Ayrton Diablos ticked all the boxes, and so far they have been a real dream to work with in terms of lighting quality and reliability. That’s good news for the Melkweg, and obviously also for me as a full-service consultant!” Versatile and feature-rich, and weighing just over 20kg, Diablo is the smallest, lightest, brightest and most efficient profile fixture in its category. With a record output of 19,000 lumens from its 300W source and a zoom range of 7° - 53°, Diablo is a powerhouse of technology. Supplied by Dutch distributor Ampco Flashlight Sales, the Diablo fixtures have now found their way to multiple venues in the Netherlands. The Airlight / Ampo Flashlight co-operation goes beyond this as Pouwels adds: “Ampco Flashlight not only serves as a very well-informed distributor for its brands, but its very professional rental department provides me with a valuable backup for extra services to my customers.” photo: © Tim van EttenNext >