UK - Cross 5 is the latest in a new range of high-performance cable protection ‘crossover’ products launched by Penn Elcom this year. It can be used for any temporary installation or working environment where safe ground-based cable protection is required.
Cross 5 is manufactured from thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), chosen for its recyclability, and has been developed to provide a five-channel cable protector with unrivalled strength, abrasion resistance and flexibility. It is also fire retardant to DIN EN 13501-1.
Serious weight capacity ensures that all types of vehicles - including a standard 44t artic - can safely drive over Cross 5.
The Penn Elcom Cross system is made from two elements - the base section and the ramp.
The base section acts as a connector piece from which numerous variations and combinations of crossover can be created. The ramp section features a 15° angle of inclination which is the optimum for vehicles driving over it.
Key features include being tear-proof, stable and resistant to most chemicals, fats and oils and other liquids that can be potential slip-hazards.
The first product in the new Cross series, Cross 3 was launched at the start of the year and has been very successful, so Penn expects a similar scenario with CROSS 5 and other subsequent Cross products.
“With health and safety being paramount at every event, there is a demand for high quality, well-priced technical solutions like Cross in all sectors,” concludes Penn Elcom’s commercial director Rob Platt.
(Jim Evans)

UK - Production Park, a cluster of live event-based companies in Wakefield, has announced that it will fund university places at its industry leading training centre, Backstage Academy, making an initial pledge of £20,000 per academic year.
The Backstage Academy Bursary Fund will provide a fully funded three-year place on one of the Academy's BA courses to an outstanding candidate for whom university would not otherwise have been an option. Funds will also be available for part-funded places and support for accommodation costs.
In addition, a percentage of the fund will be allocated to provide assisted places on Backstage Academy's outreach programmes, delivered in local communities to educate and inspire those currently disengaged with traditional education, or in need of rehabilitation into a workplace environment.
Production Park says the investment is just the beginning of its long-term social mobility strategy designed to support disadvantaged people with education and help them to pursue a career in the live events industry.
Alongside study, successful Bursary applicants will take part in a work placement and mentoring scheme, incorporating all Production Park's companies - Brilliant Stages, Litestructures, Perry Scenic, LS-Live and Cato Music. Students will gain essential skills in set design and build, scenic décor, sound, lighting and visuals, alongside an array of industry recognised accreditations.
Production Park co-founder Lee Brooks says: "We feel a collective responsibility to reach underprivileged people in society who

UK - Penn Elcom has launched its new PDU16 range of premium rack-mounting power distribution: the PDU16-UN, the PDU16-EU, the PDU16-PC and the PDU16-AV.
The 2U high horizontal mounting PDU16 series has been developed in response to growing customer demand in the 19-inch rack market.
Features include a backlit LCD monitoring display on the front of each unit, showing essential operational feedback and data including voltage, current, power in watts and energy level. PDU16-UN (universal) main in/outs on Circuit A are a panel mounting 32A 240V IP44-C-FORM input socket feeding through to a 16A IP44 C-FORM output socket via an illuminated circuit breaker.
The PDU16-EU main in/outs on Circuit A are a panel mounting 32A 240V IP44 C-FORM input socket feeding through to a 16A IP44 C-FORM output socket via an illuminated circuit breaker.
PDU16-PC has a panel mounting 32A 240V IP44 C-FORM input socket as the main in/out on Circuit A, feeding through to a 16A IP44 C-FORM output socket via illuminated circuit breaker.
PDU16-AV is designed for home audio visual installations and multimedia applications from live music venues to theme parks and museums. The main input is a 20A Neutrik powerCON, complete with a 2nd order EMI filter and a GDT / VDR protection circuit to deal with lightning strikes and local power surges.
All four models of PDU16 have illuminated circuit breakers for overload protection, M4 earth studs for rack ground continuity and adjustable rack mounting ear positions.
(Jim Evans)

UK - Hofesh Shechter Company celebrated its 10th anniversary and kicked off the first day of Brighton Festival in May with a performance of Grande Finale, the latest original dance work from award-winning choreographer Hofesh Shechter.
Signature to any Shechter production is the ‘Hofesh Haze’, a distinctive thick haze with an even, creamy look that remains consistent throughout the performances. To achieve this effect, Adam Hooper, head of production at Hofesh Shechter, relies on MDG haze and fog generators which are hired locally at each venue, or brought along by the company if there is no local availability. “Because haze is such a large part of Hofesh’s productions, we only use MDG haze and fog generators and specify them on every rider, with no substitute,” he says.
In Grand Finale, the set in Tom Scutt’s design consists of seven rolling towers manipulated by the dancers, and the architecture of Tom Visser’s stark and stylish lighting design, with beams of monochromatic light that cut sharply through the haze and change with each repositioning of the towers.
“The lighting positions are very specific and structured,” explains Hooper. “Focusing can take up to eight hours because Hofesh insists on running through the show at every new venue, and his attention to detail means we frequently tweak the lighting levels by as little as 0.5% during technical rehearsals. This is why the ‘Hofesh Haze’ is a very important addition to the aesthetic. We need it to look the same at all times, with no little puffs or clou

UK - Technical entertainment charity Backup has joined AmazonSmile.
The initiative, which was launched in the UK last November, enables the e-commerce giant to donate 0.5% of the net purchase price (excluding VAT, returns and shipping fees) of eligible purchases to participating charitable organisations.
To support Backup through AmazonSmile, visit www.smile.amazon.co.uk and type Backup in the ‘Pick your own charitable organisation’ window when you shop.
(Jim Evans)

UK - MDG received the ABTT Award for Engineering Product of the Year 2018 for its RFP Round Floor Pocket at this week’s ABTT Show at London’s Alexandra Palace.
MDG’s RFP Round Floor Pocket is a DMX/RDM-operated pneumatic Round Floor Pocket of rugged construction which can be embedded in the stage floor or set wall to conceal a fog output. It is intended to operate under pneumatic pressure as part of an existing fog system, delivering low fog or fog to precise locations.
The ABTT judges awarding the honour, who were made up of an experienced jury of working practitioners and industry peers, stated: “Solving the problem of how to get your low fog into those hard to reach places, the MDG DMX-controlled Round Floor Pocket works as a reversed trap, lifting a lid to allow ducted low fog and haze onto the stage.
“Suitable for integration into large touring stages, or those shows with longer runs that can accommodate routes sub-stage for fog and haze ducting, the steel lid means that it is still suitable to stand on safely, and the DMX control easily integrates into haze and fog cues.”
RFP Round Floor Pocket is one of the latest in a range of accessories that complements the MDG range of fog, low fog and haze generators, and is designed to provide years of quality service.
The Award was accepted by MDG UK’s Matt Wiseman who said, “I’m delighted to accept the ABTT award on behalf of MDG. The RFP Round Floor Pocket has drawn much attention in a very short time due to it being a simple, effective and well-engineered product. The

South Africa - DWR Distribution’s SOS Charity Fund has helped finance the hand surgery of Vibe Audio & Backline owner Vincent Joubert, with further financial backing promised by DWR.
Joubert, who has worked at festivals and alongside South African artists Jo Black, Ray Dylan, Liezel Pieterse and Deon Groot, developed septic arthritis in a joint of a finger he injured a decade ago.
“Ten years ago, I hurt my finger and the joint was damaged,” Joubert explains. “Initially, the doctor was going to amputate, and I was actually relieved as I was in such immense pain. It was difficult to function.”
The surgery, which could not have taken place in a government hospital, was enabled by an SOS Charity Fund donation of R7,000 (£400).
Joubert adds: “People in the industry, including artists I work with, and DWR Distribution’s SOS Charity Fund have been wonderful and assisted me with the initial operation costs. They have all been amazing - thank you very much!” As a single dad, kind gestures have gone a long way.”
(Jim Evans)

UK - Flightcase Warehouse has acquired Production Park-based heavy-duty case company Box Clever Cases, effective 4 June.
The deal reflects an “ambitious growth strategy”, which has seen the Tamworth flight case manufacturer invest in “product, people and process”. Flightcase Warehouse is also launching an enhanced protective case service for Production Park businesses, including an on-demand delivery service, and is transferring all manufacturing to Tamworth.
Sam Austin, managing director of Flightcase Warehouse, comments: “The Flightcase Warehouse acquisition of Box Clever Cases complements our overall offering whilst strengthening our hand in the production and live events marketplaces through maximising the unique and exciting opportunities Production Park affords us. We’re an ambitious company continually leading the way in both exclusive services and product development, and we see our new relationship with a Production Park resident as representing a great growth trajectory.”
Box Clever Cases will continue to trade under its existing name and team. It has refreshed its logo to reflect the new alliance.
Graham Kearsley, managing director of Box Clever Cases, adds: “Through this purchase, businesses on Production Park and the wider industry alike will continue to enjoy the personalised service that they currently receive from Box Clever Cases, but with the added bespoke, manufacturing and speed benefits of Flightcase Warehouse. We’re passionate about delivering a professional, friendly and down-to-earth service and our cu

UK - The PLASA 2018 Members’ Day and AGM took place on Thursday 31 May at the Royal College of Physicians in Regent’s Park, London to reflect upon a year of specialist projects, industry collaboration and growth.
Members and guests enjoyed a productive day with an insightful AGM, followed by a networking afternoon in the venue’s unique ‘physic’ garden. The lively guest speaker, Caroline Russell from The Ideas Centre Group, encouraged audience participation with her creative approach to problem-solving, then attendees were invited to stay for drinks into the evening.
PLASA Treasurer Mark Surtees presented the 2017 accounts and announced that PLASA is in a place of financial stability, highlighting an increase in profits due to commercial growth within Events and Media. Newly elected Chair, Adam Blaxill, added later that all profits funnel back into the Association, enabling PLASA to generate and implement more initiatives to directly benefit its members and the wider industry.
Managing Director Peter Heath described how the last 12 months has been ever-changing and that PLASA has been proactive in connecting and collaborating with its members. Blaxill bolstered this by encouraging members to get involved with the Association’s activities and work within specialist groups if they feel they have something to offer. Both Blaxill and Heath also noted that although Brexit is looming PLASA has continued to reach out to European members to help unify the industry and raise working standards.
There were several presentations f

UK - J&C Joel has announced the appointment of Alan Jackson as UK sales manager.
Jackson has more than 35 years’ experience in the industry including working for Hawthorn for 14 years, most recently as their installations director. He will work closely with the UK sales team to develop inclusive relationships with customers, drive a focussed approach to the UK market and raise awareness about the broad range of products J&C Joel provide.
Jackson comments: “As a Yorkshireman, it’s great to go back to my roots and work with a fantastic Yorkshire based company. I’ve had a long connection with J&C Joel and I’m really looking forward to developing the UK sales team, meeting customers and raising the profile of the team and the company’s products and services.”
J&C Joel CEO James Wheelwright adds: “Alan is a great addition to our senior management team. He brings many years of experience, has extensive knowledge of our products and services and is a well-known industry face. He was the ideal choice to head up our sales operation in the domestic market.”
(Jim Evans)

Europe - Didier Streel has been appointed vice-president of business development, for Solotech’s Rental Division, Europe, as the Montreal-based company continues to expand its international reach.
Didier has more than 30 years’ experience in the entertainment technology industry, which has earned him a solid reputation in the European market. He will be instrumental in implementing Solotech's expansion strategy in the European market, overseeing the setting up of service points to support Solotech's commercial activities in Europe, as well as ensure the development of new European client bases in the tour, corporate and special events market segments. He will be based in Brussels.
(Jim Evans)

UK - Backup’s Kart-Fest 2018 returns on 5 July at Daytona Sandown Park in Surrey, with Chauvet helping drive the event forward and Wimbledon named as this year’s theme.
“We all know people in it who have suffered or are suffering right now in our crazy industry family,” says Matt Hallard, Chauvet’s UK sales manager. “Having an opportunity to support friends and colleagues by sponsoring one of backup’s amazing events is simply the least we can do. Here’s to many more opportunities to shout loud about the great work the trustees and team are doing at Backup and here’s to all that support them.”
“We are delighted to welcome Chauvet as our key partner for Kart-Fest 2018,” says Backup trustee Lee Dennison. "Chauvet joins an amazing list of companies who have already committed to backup and supporting the work we do. We also welcome Creative Technology on board as one of our fantastic production partners. They join Autograph Sound, Unusual Rigging, Impact Production Services and Media Lease as sponsors for Kart-Fest. Thank you to all of them for supporting Backup."
Wimbledon will be the theme for the 5 July event, at which 300 members of the live events industry are expected to come together with big hair, sweat bands and '70s tennis whites to the fore (Yes, we are serious!). There will be prizes for best outfit.
Away from the race track, live action from Wimbledon will be screened throughout the day. BBQ will also be provided, a well as live music and the chance to catch up with clients, manufactures, customers, supplie

UK - Powerbox has announced the launch of four new series of extra-wide input voltage range, 8W to 20W board-mounted DC/DC converters for railway and transportation industry.
With a 13:1 input voltage range of 12V to 160V, the MAD33 (8W), MAD32 (10W), MAE35 (15W) and MAF35 (20W) have been developed to provide systems designers with a single part number that is able to power a large range of transportation industry applications (e.g. railway, industrial automation and automotive, remote radio-control), reducing inventory, time to market and documentation.
The MAD-MAE-MAF series are designed to meet railway specifications EN50155, EN50121-3-2, EN61373 and EN45545, but as well ISO7637-2 for 24V vehicles, and EN12895 for industrial trucks and other industrial applications such as robotics. The 8W MAD33 is packaged in an industry standard DIP24 case, and the MAD32, MAE35 and MAF35 are housed in a 2x1 inch case. All four series have a typical efficiency rating of 86%, which considering the extra-wide up to 13:1 input range is an outstanding figure.
“Time to market is very important for systems designers as is simplicity of the sourcing / supply chains in order to reduce downtime in the case of trains maintenance or hardware upgrades. Both are driving forces behind extra-wide input range converters and we see similar demands from other industries such industrial automotive,” said Martin Fredmark, Powerbox’s VP portfolio management.
“Designing 13:1 input range DC/DC converters is very challenging in order to optimize all parameters while keep

USA - Theatre Projects is opening an office in Denver on 1 June, the company has announced. Principal Millie Dixon will lead the new office with support from other familiar faces including Aaron Wong and Ali Mignone.
The location was chosen for being relatively central to western and mid-western US and for being easy to reach from Los Angeles, Portland, Minneapolis, Dallas, Chicago and Atlanta by plane.
With the opening of the new office, Theatre Projects will have five offices worldwide - Denver, Connecticut (South Norwalk), London, Paris, and Shanghai, as well as a representative in Chile.
(Jim Evans)

UK - MDG and PRG XL Video have praised lighting designer Howell Binkley and the cast and crew of the London production of Hamilton: An American Musical on winning seven Olivier Awards, including that of Best Lighting Design, at the awards ceremony in April at London’s Royal Albert Hall.
PRG XL Video supplied three of its ATMe haze machines to this much-anticipated London production when it opened in December 2017.
Hamilton, which had already taken Broadway by storm with 11 Tony Awards, made its UK debut at the newly refurbished Victoria Palace Theatre in London’s West End, and received a standing ovation on the very first preview.
Howell Binkley says: “We use the ATMe units constantly throughout the show. There is no real scenery for this show, so the lighting has to create the different spaces required. We just wanted a very fine haze in the air - we don’t like to see clouds of ‘smoke’ appearing from the wings - and with the ATMes we were able to achieve this very well.
“We use two of the ATMe generators in upstage and downstage positions on the stage right fly floor, and keep the third as a back-up,” continues Binkley. “They are the only haze machines in the whole show and were brought in by our production electrician who changed the spec without telling us! It was a wise move, however, as they give us much greater control.”
PRG XL Video account director Peter Marshall adds: “It’s well known that theatre lighting designers prefer to specify MDG units because they are silent and have a large operat

USA - Point Source Audio (PSA) has announced the recipients of its $10K Anniversary Giveaway in celebration of its 10-year anniversary and “give back” initiative to benefit the performing arts. Each of the Grand, Great, and Good prize winners will select from Point Source’s full catalogue of miniature microphones and headsets totalling their prize value of $5,000, $3,000 and $2,000 respectively.
The contest was open to public and non-profit schools, non-profit performance art and music-driven organizations, community theatre and performing arts groups and clubs, and church performance groups. “The award winners exemplified to us how it is possible to use the performing arts to entertain while also magnanimously create goodwill throughout their community,” said James Lamb, president of Point Source Audio. “It is heartwarming to see so much good being done day in and day out by these unsung heroes.”
The $5,000 award is presented to the NewArts Foundation for its work towards youth development. NewArts was founded by Michael Baroody, MD, a resident of Newtown, following the tragedy at the Sandy Hook Elementary School. The foundation’s mission is to empower children in an increasingly challenging world by providing programming to guide children through personalized character development.
The $3,000 award is presented to the University of South Dakota Department of Theatre for its outreach to the Native American community. The University of South Dakota Department of Theatre drives forward arts engagement, diversity and inclusiveness in t