PLASA Focus Leeds will return to the Royal Armouries in Leeds on 12–13 May with a seminar programme focused on some of the key challenges and transformations shaping the live entertainment sector.
Artificial intelligence, sustainability, technical training, and professional development will define an agenda bringing together specialists from the lighting, audio, AV, rigging, and staging sectors.
Throughout the event, visitors will hear from industry leaders, professionals, and innovators working across lighting, audio, AV, rigging, and staging, who will share practical knowledge, real-world experience, and forward-thinking ideas. All sessions will be free to attend and will take place across both days of the show.
Technical skills in action
Hands-on knowledge and technical expertise will 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 present 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, will expand the programme into staging and audio disciplines.
Together, these sessions will explore creative workflows, system design, and essential technical foundations for successful productions. They are also intended to provide attendees with knowledge that can be directly applied to their day-to-day work.
AI, cybersecurity, and sustainability
As the industry adapts to rapid technological and environmental changes, a dedicated strand of the programme will examine the impact of AI, cybersecurity, 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 explore how these trends 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 for navigating change while addressing 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 contributions 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 provide guidance for those entering the sector, as well as insight for experienced professionals considering their long-term career progression.
The programme also includes The Power of Events Schools Engagement Programme: Inspiring the Next Generation of Event Professionals, highlighting the importance of early educational outreach and demonstrating how the industry is working to attract and inspire future talent.
Expert insight from across the industry
Beyond the core themes, the programme features a broad range of specialist sessions delivered by respected designers and engineers.
Lighting designers Maya Gribby and Elanor Higgins will share creative design approaches, while Tony Birch - Career, Insights And Lessons will offer a behind-the-scenes look at the experience and expertise 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 will give attendees direct access to the latest tools, technologies, and techniques shaping the industry.
Learn, connect, and explore
Held alongside more than 190 brands across two exhibition halls, expanded museum spaces, and an outdoor courtyard, the seminar programme forms an essential part of the PLASA Focus Leeds experience. The show is known for its approachable atmosphere as well as its highly specialised environment. In addition to the seminars, visitors will be able to take part in hands-on lighting training sessions from ChamSys, experience dedicated audio demo spaces from KV2 Audio and EM Acoustics, and attend speed networking sessions designed to connect professionals from across the industry.
To help attendees make the most of their visit, the official event app also allows users to browse the full seminar programme, explore exhibitors, and build a personalised schedule in advance.
Whether you are looking to improve your skills, explore new technologies, or take the next step in your professional career, the programme offers valuable insight for professionals at every level.
