Four decades after the launch of the Vari-Lite Series 200, PLASA Show brought together the technology and pioneers whose work helped transform entertainment lighting.

PRG supported the Classic Gear Live space within the Lighting & Staging Theatre, where visitors could explore landmark equipment and hear directly from some of the people behind its development.

A conversation with two Vari-Lite pioneers

A highlight of the programme was a special panel featuring Jim Bornhorst and Tom Littrell, who shared their experiences from a defining period in the development of automated lighting.

Jim led the development of Vari-Lite fixtures from the earliest prototype through to the VL3500. Tom was the company’s first programmer and helped introduce the technology to audiences through productions including Genesis’ Abacab tour.

Their discussion explored the ideas, engineering and practical challenges behind the VL2, VL3 and VL4 fixtures, alongside the Artisan control console. Together, these products changed what was possible in lighting design and established principles that continue to influence the industry today.

The session also offered visitors an opportunity to understand the people and experimentation behind the technology, providing valuable context for equipment that helped shape the modern production environment.

Bringing lighting history together

PRG supplied Vari-Lite Series 100 and Series 300 fixtures for the Classic Gear Live display, bringing together examples of equipment from an important chapter in the company’s heritage.

Supporting the space was an opportunity to preserve and share that history with today’s lighting community, while recognising the engineers, programmers and production teams who helped move the industry forward.

Thank you to the PLASA Show team, Jim Bornhorst and Tom Littrell for an insightful look back at the ideas and innovations that changed entertainment lighting.