Explore the future of touring. Recent advancements to technology and sustainability are changing global touring with things like smart systems and advanced lighting helping to reduce the industry’s environmental impact.
Future of Live Touring
By Randy Hutson, SVP Music & Live TV at event services and tech provider PRG
Global touring has always been a complex endeavor, but recent technological advancements are revolutionizing the industry, making it more efficient, adaptable, and environmentally conscious. From innovative equipment to sophisticated planning tools—these developments are transforming how we at PRG—and the industry at large—approach touring on a global scale.
Tech-Driven Efficiency
The integration of advanced technologies is addressing long-standing challenges in global touring. For instance, the use of automated rigging systems has streamlined the setup and operation of complex stage designs. These systems enable precise control over rigging and movement, reducing manual labor and ensuring a smoother, safer, lighter, and more reliable setup. By saving valuable truck space, these advancements also contribute to reducing emissions and optimizing transportation efficiency.
Eco-Friendly Touring Practices
Sustainability has become a crucial focus in the entertainment industry. Technologies like PRG’s Infiniform are leading the charge in reducing the carbon footprint of touring. This system offers endless creative possibilities in a sustainable modular scenic solution. Additionally, transitioning from arc and incandescent lamps to LED-source fixtures has resulted in more energy-efficient lighting systems, reflecting a broader industry shift towards greener practices and the ethos of repurposing rather than trashing aging equipment.
LED & Projection Technology
The evolution of LED and projection technologies is another significant advancement. Modern LED screens and projection systems provide high-impact visual presentations with less equipment. These technologies not only deliver stunning visuals but also contribute to reducing the amount of gear required, thereby simplifying logistics and cutting down on transportation emissions.
Pre-Visualization Tools
Planning and visualization tools have also advanced, allowing for more efficient and precise stage setups. Software that enables pre-visualization of stage designs and equipment layouts helps teams plan and execute their setups more effectively. This foresight reduces the likelihood of on-site adjustments and ensures a smoother execution process.
Local Support and Efficiency
Local support plays a crucial role in enhancing efficiency and reducing emissions in global touring. With 43 offices worldwide, PRG leverages local teams to bring a regional approach to each client’s world tour. This allows us to streamline logistics, minimize transportation distances, and adapt to local conditions more effectively. By coordinating closely with regional teams, we reduce the need for extensive cross-border equipment transport for add-ons or order changes. This approach not only supports efficient operations but also aligns with our commitment to reducing the environmental impact of touring.
Role of Artists & Innovators: Coldplay, The 1975 and more
Embracing advancements in technology and sustainability is crucial for enhancing the touring experience. Initiatives such as the Music Sustainability Alliance promote sustainable practices and encourage all stakeholders—from artists to production teams—to increase environmental responsibility in global touring.
Examples abound. PRG was able to help Coldplay lead this charge with their “Music of the Spheres” tour, which utilized energy-efficient LED lighting, solar panels, and a kinetic floor to reduce their carbon footprint. They also committed to offsetting their tour’s carbon emissions and partnered with local organizations to support environmental projects in each city they visited.
The 1975 also exemplified this commitment to sustainability with their “Still At Their Very Best” global tour, where they partnered with REVERB to reduce their environmental impact and encouraged fans to take action on important issues. PRG’s Infiniform played a key role in this effort by integrating advanced touring technology with their eco-goals. The Infiniform technology helped create a dynamic and sustainable scenic backdrop resembling the interior of a house. In just six weeks, PRG transformed a creative concept into a reusable, earth-friendly, and adaptable solution that was lightweight, traveled in compact pieces, and was comprised of all reusable elements.
Everyone in the entertainment industry should be committed to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in eco-friendly touring. For production companies, collaborating with visionary clients allows us to innovate and set new standards for sustainability in global productions. As the industry continues to embrace these changes, the possibilities for impactful and sustainable touring are boundless.
