Sponsoring the event are leading lighting innovators Chauvet Professional, Robe, and one of the UK's largest suppliers of technical production services, Hawthorn. The sold-out exhibition floor features new products from a number of exhibitors including Martin Audio, d&b audiotechnik, Philips Entertainment, Martin Professional, Artistic Licence, Robe, Midas, Ampetronic, Rosco, MilTec, Le Maitre, JoeCo, Stage Electrics, White Light, LMC Audio Systems, Pulsar, Fuzion, ETC, Highlite International, Smoke Factory, AED Distribution, Electro-Voice, A.C. Entertainment Technologies, ShowTex, Triple E and Interspace Industries.
The highly regarded PLASA Professional Development Programme is packed with expert speakers, covering every aspect of the industry. The close of each day is punctuated by a Keynote speech: Professor Harald Haas brings an altogether futuristic concept to the show, discussing how LEDs may be harnessed, rather than radio waves, to transmit data. The legendary guru of the pro audio world, Tony Andrews closes the show on Wednesday with a conversation about how he believes audio technology can improve the human listening experience. Other highlights include How to Soundcheck! from FOH engineer Jon Burton, Lucy Ockenden's The Integration of Video and New Technologies on Björk's Biophillia Tour, Demystifying Audio Techniques and Why Size Matters from d&b audiotechnik and Wayne Howell's Networking for Roadies. To book your free place on any of the seminars visit: www.plasafocus.com/leeds/seminars/.
Running alongside the show is the inaugural Riggers' Forum, taking place from 2-5pm on Tuesday 30 April at The Royal Armouries. This ticketed event opens with a short presentation The Dunning Kruger Effect - The Dangers of Unconscious Incompetence followed by a chaired debate hosted by a panel of respected industry experts. The forum offers a unique opportunity for those in the rigging community to discuss and debate the issues and challenges of their profession. Some tickets are still available at a 50% discounted price of £15 + VAT at www.plasafocus.com/leeds/seminars/forum/. Entry on the day will be priced at £30 + VAT.
The Royal Armouries Museum is conveniently located just a short distance from Leeds City centre and Leeds Railway Station; for motorists there are on-site parking facilities available.
Entry to PLASA Focus: Leeds 2013 on Tuesday 30 April and Wednesday 1 May is free. A delicious free buffet lunch is served to all visitors on each day of the show. There is no better venue to mingle with exhibitors and customers, discuss business and indulge in some serious networking over a few pints at the New Dock Bar. The Royal Armouries provides a singularly relaxed and informal atmosphere to PLASA Focus: Leeds that keeps visitors coming back year after year. It is, quite simply, a unique event in the trade show calendar.
(Jim Evans)
