Welcome to the heart of innovation and exchange: the Guided Tours in the field of theater technology at the Prolight + Sound trade fair offer a unique opportunity to immerse yourself directly in the world of the latest technological breakthroughs and creative solutions. From ground-breaking LED technology to revolutionary drive solutions, our expert tours not only reveal the latest trends and products, but also enable lively exchanges and direct contact with leading companies in the industry. The tours take place on the following dates:
Tour 1 | Tour 2 | Tour 3 | Tour 4 | Tour 5 | Tour 6 |
March 19th | March 19th | March 20th | March 20th | March 20th | March 21th |
2 p.m. | 4 p.m. | 11 a.m. | 2 p.m. | 4 p.m. | 11 a.m. |
Gr. 1 | Gr. 2 | Gr. 1 | Gr. 2 | Gr. 1 | Gr. 2 |
Lighting | Stage & Lighting | Lighting | Stage & Lighting | Lighting | Stage & Lighting |
Guide Andreas Bickel explains in an interview what participants can look forward to
The tours take place under the expert guidance of Andreas Bickel, Managing Director of Backstage Engineering. Before founding the company, he was a member of the management team at Gerriets GmbH and was responsible for technology, research and development for more than six years.
After completing his studies in theater and event technology at the Berlin University of Applied Sciences, Bickel spent more than a decade working for stage construction companies, including Bosch Rexroth AG, where he was project manager for stage technology on projects such as the renovation of the Bolshoi Theater in Moscow. He then worked as head of mechanical engineering in the field of stage technology. He gained more than ten years of practical experience before and during his studies at Bayerischer Rundfunk, the Bavarian State Opera in Munich and the Staatsoper Unter den Linden in Berlin.
He has been active in standardization on a voluntary basis since 2004, since 2008 as chairman and since 2017 as head of national standardization committees of the DIN NVBF. In addition, he has been the chairman of the European standardization committee CEN/TC 433 for entertainment technology since 2014. As a qualified engineer and authorized expert, he tests and evaluates technical equipment for event technology, and plans and advises on holistic solutions.
Could you start by explaining what participants can expect from the Guided Tours in the field of theater technology?
Above all, insights into exciting, innovative products and new technologies. But of course also direct live contact and interesting side information about the various companies.
What motivated you to become a guide for the theater technology tours?
I really enjoy bringing people together and sharing innovations, but the excellent relationship with the VPLT has also been part of my motivation.
Can you give an example of a particularly innovative technical solution that you presented on one of your tours?
The focus is on lighting and LED technology, which continues to offer potential for innovation, but we also have something in store for drive technology and rigging accessories.
Which new technologies or products in the field of theater technology have impressed you recently, and why?
As a “mechanic”, I am still enthusiastic about the recently developed I-Lock spiral lift with locking between the horizontal and vertical elements of the lifting column. If you don’t know it yet and don’t understand it, just type it into a search engine 🙂
Are there certain technologies or innovations that you see as groundbreaking for the future of theater technology?
At the forefront is the topic of the Graphical User Interface (GUI) – the human-machine interface. A lot is currently happening in the area of intuitive and safe operation for stage machinery… a very important point for me that will closely accompany the industry.
How does the Prolight + Sound trade fair contribute to the transfer of knowledge and networking of experts in the field of theater technology?
PLS is a fixed date in the calendar for the entire industry. It simply offers plenty of opportunities to exchange ideas, network and share concentrated expertise at all levels – be it at the trade fair stand, in the presentations or, of course, with the extensive supporting program.
What significance does the trade fair have for manufacturers, users and trade visitors from the theater technology sector?
In my opinion, the many opportunities to exchange ideas, catch up and stay up to date are almost unique. But sentimental reasons such as reunions, rituals and a shared love of the stage certainly also play a major role for everyone who makes the trip to Frankfurt.
How do you see the future of theater technology, especially with regard to sustainable and environmentally friendly productions?
Sustainability has long played a major role in many productions in classical theater – albeit not as explicitly in focus as in recent times. When it comes to technology, we will have to develop a new awareness of life-cycle management and retrofitting – some venues, such as the Bavarian State Opera in Munich, are already exemplifying this, but manufacturers also have potential to develop sustainable concepts here.
Are there specific goals or visions for the Guided Tours in the field of theater technology that you would like to achieve in the coming years?
I would like to see even more participation in the areas of machine technology and work equipment – I would like to focus even more on specific topics and offer these to visitors. But for now, I’m looking forward to my personal premiere as a newbie in the Guided Tours area and to making new contacts and meeting new people.
Don’t miss out: Discover the latest developments in theater technology in our Guided Tours
The world of theater technology is constantly changing, characterized by innovation and creative progress. The Guided Tours at the Prolight + Sound trade fair offer you a unique opportunity to be part of this dynamic development. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain exclusive insights into the latest technologies, exchange ideas with experts and industry leaders and expand your network. Whether you are a professional looking for the latest trends or simply an enthusiastic lover of stage technology, the Guided Tours promise inspiration, knowledge and the opportunity to meet like-minded people. Arrive on time for the appointments at the meeting point and be part of an experience that will broaden your view of the possibilities of theater technology!