A Second Day on the Cutting-Edge at PLASA Show 2018 Innovation and discovery are the overarching themes of PLASA Show this year so far, with exhibitors wowing thousands of visitors with next-generation technologies and stylish solutions. Robe is presenting a show stopping stand including an exclusive balcony where visitors can check out the latest lighting fixtures with the help of a dynamic dance troupe, rain, fire, and a mysterious cave. "We decided to create a 'Lost World' trilogy for three trade shows," explain design duo Nathan Wan and Andy Webb. "We drew inspiration from Tomb Raider, Indiana Jones, and the Goonies, creating an epic fire VS water battle. We always go big and this year sees a 22m wide rain feature." Also going down the aesthetic route, Yamaha decided that an overall concept would tempt visitors their way. Chris Irvine, Yamaha's product manager says, "This year we took a new approach which has had a great reaction. Rather than bringing loads of gear we built an aesthetically pleasing stand and chose a few key products -- the legacy PM5D digital mixing console which is out of production, and the modern, cutting edge PM7. This has allowed us to engage with visitors regarding which products they have used over the years." Debuting at PLASA Show for the first time is Epson with their PLASA Award nominated EB-L1755U projector which has already proved itself as a show-stopper. Sharon Head, sales manager for Epson says, "I've been delighted by our first time at PLASA Show -- it has exceeded expectations. Footfall came quick and fast and we've met interesting new potential partners. I'm very much looking forward to the next few days." More seasoned exhibitors include Chauvet Professional who is celebrating a special anniversary as Michael Brooksbank, European general manager for Chauvet explains: "We are celebrating our 30th year at PLASA Show and we are having a great time -- PLASA Show is always a great event." Tim Horton, SFL sales and installations manager was one of nine cyclists who rode 100 miles for Backup Charity the day before the show, but despite the fatigue, he is still upright and making the most of the show: "I'm rather tired but I'm still enjoying the show and it has been worth all the effort!" Providing an in-depth exploration of audio, Barnes & Mullins Pro Audio/Peavey Commercial Audio is located on the gallery level. Rob Bennett says, "It's a really great show as per usual. We were at PLASA Focus Leeds in May and both shows provide fantastic opportunities to engage with new and existing customers. So far a fun and busy show and we already have lots of new leads." Leisuretec has jumped straight in and are already reaping the rewards as marketing manager, Charlie Hendon explains, "The atmosphere has been lively and exciting with plenty of opportunities to establish new business relationships and socialize with existing clients." One of nearly 50 PLASA Award entries, DTS has welcomed many curious visitors. Area sales manager Antonio Parise adds, "Visitors have been keen to see the effects of our new product -- the Synergy 5 profile. We've gained many congratulations for our product which hopefully wins a PLASA Award!" GLP is lighting up the show floor with their recently released -- but already classic products such as the KNV. Simon Barrett says, "We are enjoying a busy stand and we're really happy to be here. We've seen a diverse range of visitors -- it really is the UK show." Visitors have spanned all levels of profession -- from freelancers and end users to company directors and purchasing managers. SSE sales director, Alex Penn comments: "We are enjoying a good amount of footfall meeting with lots of engineers and freelancers who are visiting off the back of a busy working weekend." Yesterday's seminar theatres were full of studious visitors, including the new Rigging, Productions and Structures Theatre which welcomed riggers and production professionals of all levels. Many turned out for in-depth critical updates such as Wayne Howell's lighting protocols update, and many were entertained by Ambersphere's Philip Norfolk's lively panel of festival veterans. Today's program continues to provide insights into ambitious projects, expert career guidance, in-depth explorations of cutting edge technology, and much more. Additionally, visitors can get hands on with lighting consoles in repeated workshops from ChamSys. In the Audio & AV Theatre, Britannia Row is firing on all cylinders presenting four seminars: an Introduction to Training and Apprenticeships; System Design - Prediction, Analysis and Optimisation; a Discussion on System Design and the Future with Immersive Sound; and Creating a Mix. The Lighting & Industry Initiatives Theatre sees creative projects come to life with the spectacular Giudizio Universale stage show which reveals the secrets of the Sistine Chapel, and design extraordinaires 59 Productions will divulge how their combination of new technology and old-fashioned storytelling techniques scale-up highly dramatic, narrative experiences. The Rigging, Productions & Structures Theatre is enjoying another crammed schedule which sees the National Rigging Advisory Group present their new guidance sheet Supervision in all Areas of Production and sit with PLASA for an Ask the Expert Panel where riggers of all levels can ask their burning questions. In the Fast Track Theatre, short and snappy sessions cover how to add magic to your next live event, the art via the latest digital marketing techniques and the importance of networking. 
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