Stage Directions

Rocky Paulson will become the third recipient of the ESTA Lifetime Technical Achievement Award on March 20th in Louisville, KY. The award will be presented at the conclusion of the New World Rigging Symposium at the Hyatt Regency Louisville at 5:15pm, and attendance is open to all.

Over the next few years, the FCC’s Incentive Auction will prohibit customers from operating wireless microphones in the 600 MHz frequency band. Your current wireless systems may be affected. If so, Sennheiser will help you trade in your old 600 MHz gear towards new wireless. 600 MHz gear from any competitive manufacturer will be accepted. Sennheiser’s 600 MHz program is coming to an end, it finishes March 31st, 2019. Here’s a video from Sennheiser on its trade-in program: {youtube} v=c9BdlFFpfUE{/youtube}

Backdrops by Charles H. Stewart has been a fundamental resource to the world of backdrops and design, offering 120 years of expertise. As of January 2019, Backdrops by Charles H. Stewart acquired DreamWorld Backdrops. DreamWorld Backdrops holds an extensive collection of original, airbrushed, and digitally printed backdrops.

Antari Lighting and Effects, headquartered in Taiwan (R.O.C.), manufacturer of fog machines and entertainment special effects, announces it has established U.S. Operations. The launch of U.S. Operations, based in Corona, CA, comes after several years of market analysis and is aligned with the company’s mission to offer better and faster service to their entertainment customers.

The true story of Les Misérables takes place more in that mystifying and kinetic space that exists between people than it does in any time or location. It is by opening a window into this web of emotional forces that connects us that this sung-through musical based on Victor Hugo’s 19th century novel has moved audiences the world over.

It is with profound sadness we report that Fred Foster, ETC co-founder and CEO has passed away at the age of 61. ETC put out a statement noting: Foster was a visionary, an innovator, and a role model. The ETC culture of family, support, and encouragement is attributed to Foster and his vision of a creating a people-focused environment. It’s difficult to put into words what it has been like to work for and with such an inspiring leader.

Vincent Lighting Systems (VLS) continues to drive innovation in lighting with a substantial investment in state-of-the-art, intelligent lighting fixtures. The Vari-Lite 2600 family of fixtures offers high intensity, exceptional performance, and superb light quality in an LED moving light fixture.

The Fulton Theatre’s long history began with its first production in 1852, launching decades of dramatic productions that cut across genres and that reflect the nation’s journey from before the Civil War to the present. Shortly after its 100-year anniversary, the Fulton Theatre earned designation as a National Historic Landmark. Despite its age, the building has only undergone a handful of major renovations, the last one occurring between 1994 and 1995 and the one previous to that occurring in 1908! Constrained by outdated stage rigging and lighting, the Fulton Theatre worked with AVL integration firm Clair Solutions on a $1.3 million upgrade that literally sets the stage for decades of critically-acclaimed theater to come.

Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group announces today the acquisition of The Works Entertainment, the creative and production company known for The Illusionists franchise and other variety shows. The addition of their well-known brands to Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group’s portfolio allows the global leader in live entertainment to continue its diversification of content offering and consolidate its presence in soft-seat theatres.

Jackie Taylor, Ms. Taylor, Ms. Jackie, Mama Jackie — the CEO and Founder of Black Ensemble Theater wears many hats and takes on many names. “I’m called all of those things and I don’t mind in the least,” Taylor said. “Whatever the person is feeling at the time is fine, just don’t call me a bad name!” Taylor’s authentic and inspiring nature will head to Louisville this March to deliver the Keynote address at the 59th Annual Conference & Stage Expo.