Upstate Performance Technology Workshops

The Upstate Performance Technology Workshops series, presented by Productions Unlimited, Inc. and Furman University, began in 2012 with a Trouble Shooting Workshop.  This workshop featured Jay O. Glerum, author of Stage Rigging Handbook and president of Jay O. Glerum & Associations, Inc. for the first two days.   This was an invitation only event, but since then, the invitation has been extended to theatres, churches, school instructors, students and anyone else who has an interest in learning!

In 2013, the workshop was Entertainment Electricity, Power Distribution, and Control Workshop with Richard Cadena, author of several books including Electricity for the Entertainment Electrician and Technician.  With over 20 years of experience in the entertaining lighting industry, Cadena shared his knowledge and experience with attendees.

In 2014, the three day Introduction to Live Sound Reinforcement Workshop featured Woody Moore, Production Manager and professor at Clemson University, who allowed participants to get back to the basics of audio with hands on training.

In 2015, the workshop featured a Rigging seminar by Delbert Hall, Ph.D., the President and Flying Director of D2 Flying Effects.

In 2016, the workshop featured Richard Cadena. With a background in electrical engineering, Cadena taught sessions over the first two days on electrical safety. There was also a First Aid/CPR class offered on an optional fourth and final day of the workshop.

The 2017 workshop featured the OSHA 10-Hour General Training for the Entertainment Industry led by Joe Aldridge, former USITT president. As a member of IATSE/ICAP, Joe helped to develop the entertainment industry specific OSHA 10-Hour training curriculum.

The 2018 workshop focused on current lighting technology. Topics included lighting design, moving lights, LEDs, the use of projection, and more!

In 2019, due to scheduling and work load conflicts, we decided it would be best to defer our plans until the 2020 time slot…

The 2020 workshop presented a multi-faceted classroom and hands-on rigging experience. Guest presenters include Elmer Veith of Reliable Design Services in Quinlan, TX; and Stu Schatz, Southeast Regional Sales Manager for ETC Rigging. Topics included Rigging Hardware & Components, Counterweight Rigging, Automated Stage Rigging, Truss & Chain Motors, and more.

After a 2-year Covid break, UPTW is back in 2023! We are also excited to welcome back Richard Cadena, who will be presenting on the fundamentals of electrical circuits and best practices for safe power distribution!

Click here for more information on the 2023 Workshop.

Each workshop also includes seminars from Productions Unlimited, Inc. and Furman University employees. We are excited about future Upstate Performance Technology Workshops and are always open for input and suggestions for future events.