Earlier this year, 2011, the Professional Lighting and Sound Association (PLASA) and the Entertainment Services and Technology Association (ESTA) merged under the PLASA name. PLASA exists to support the people who work in everything from theatre, live music, to TV and film. PLASA regulates technicians who work with camera cranes, electrical power, fog and smoke, performance floors, rigging and stage lifts. The main goal of PLASA is safety. They have developed the Entertainment Technician Certification Program, which will be awarded to technicians who pass the rigorous requirements.
As a stage manager my number one goal is also safety. Backstage during a show is dark. It is important that all props are organized and all wires are off the floor. This ensures that everything is in its proper place, and there are no trip hazards around. In addition the equipment we use is heavy, and most of the time hanging from the catwalk. It is important that there are regulations in place to protect the cast, crew and audience. For example, every light must have a safety cable attached to it in case the C clamp comes off the pole.
PLASA membership includes a wide range of benefits such as: business support and advice, industry news, events and meetings, business resources and financial advantages, industry research, technical and professional development. These are great benefits to those who want to improve their skills and strengthen the entertainment industry.
One way PLASA tries to strengthen the entertainment industry is by holding trade shows. This years trade show took place at Earls Court in London from September 11 to the 14th. There were over 340 companies that displayed their exhibits in audio, AV, lighting, stage tech and rigging. This was the place to be to discover the latest technology in the entertainment world.
To keep up to date with the changing technology PLASA publishes Lighting & Sound America, Lighting & Sound International and Protocol. These industry-focused magazines cover product and business development as well as industry news and issues. Some of the material in the print magazine can be found on the website for free.
PLASA is a small entertainment association of around 1,100 members. However, these members are dedicated to their craft, and what they do is important for the events industry to operate successfully. So here to the people who work behind the scenes to make events possible and safe for everyone to enjoy.
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