EDITOR’S WELCOME 3
EDITORIAL Editor Verity Butler +44 (0) 1223 492246 veritybutler@bright.uk.com Senior staff writer Chief sub editor Matthew Winney Junior sub editors Tabitha John Kezia Kurtz Editorial director Nicola Foley ADVERTISING Sales director Sam Scott-Smith +44 (0) 1223 499457 +44 (0) 7875 711967 samscott-smith@bright.uk.com Katie Kasperson Features writer Oliver Webb +44 (0) 1223 499462 +44 (0) 7376 665779 emmastevens@bright.uk.com DESIGN Design director Andy Jennings Magazine design manager Lucy Woolcomb Junior designer and ad production Holly May Sales manager Emma Stevens PUBLISHING Managing director Andy Brogden FOLLOW US @livemagsocial linkedin.com/company/ livemagsocial MEDIA PARTNERS
W elcome back – and to the first issue of LIVE in 2026. A new year always brings a fresh sense of momentum, and if there’s one sector that thrives on what’s next, it’s AV. On that topic, we’re also trying something new for 2026. Each quarterly issue of LIVE will be centred around a core theme, giving us the chance to dive deeper and tell more meaningful stories across the industry. For this issue, that first theme could only be innovation. As Steve Jobs famously said: “Innovation distinguishes between a leader and a follower.” Few moments embody that spirit more than ISE, which is why innovation felt like the perfect lens to kick 2026 off. A melting pot of product launches, conferences, showcases and conversations, it’s the show that sets the tone for the year ahead. Whether you’re there to see the latest tech, meet new collaborators or simply soak up what’s coming next, be sure to check out our annual guide on page 12 for everything you need to know ahead of the event. Our cover story on page 22 takes innovation in a powerful and human direction. We offer a technical breakdown of Day of Remembrance , an incredibly moving new production from the Finnish National Theatre. Through the thoughtful use of live video, projection and lighting, the show demonstrates how audio-visual tech can play a vital role in telling the story of difficult but important moments in history. Elsewhere in this issue, we continue to explore innovation from every angle: a panel discussion on managing risk in major audio- visual projects; a behind-the-scenes look at a new broadcast- grade office in London; an examination of the often-invisible technology powering modern control rooms and an interview with Luminiscence , whose projection mapping is transforming some of Europe’s most beloved cathedrals. Our concert coverage turns to the bands Radiohead and Linkin Park, who are both pushing creative and technical boundaries in their latest tours, while theatre fans won’t want to miss how the beloved bear pictured above has swapped his train station roots for the West End stage. Here’s to another year of bold ideas, smart solutions and relentless AV innovation. We’re glad you’re with us.
Grab your jar of marmalade and go to page 68 for a Paddington The Musical deep dive
TO SUBSCRIBE, VISIT LIVEMAG.ONLINE
Need to update or cancel your LIVE subscription? Email us at livesubs@bright.uk.com
Verity Butler Editor veritybutler@bright.uk.com
Powered by FlippingBook