Articles by Angela Newton
I qualified as a classroom teacher in 2010, and it was working for several years in a school environment that caused my interest in lighting and PA equipment to develop massively. Also being married to industry legend Brett Newton since 2015, I could not help but develop an interest in sound and lighting, as he enjoys nothing more than talking about the latest developments!
In the school environment, I saw how lighting and audio could be used to engage students, enhance their learning experience, and provide much fun. From suitable speakers to play audio and video clips, to light-up buzzers for quizzes, to stage effects for productions, to party lighting and effects for school discos. I became aware of how sound and lighting equipment is all around us, and how using the right equipment can make a big difference.
Over the years I have also been involved in helping to organise sound and lighting equipment for live music events, which has been a great learning experience. There is nothing like seeing an audience enjoy an event, and seeing firsthand what impact high-quality sound and lighting equipment can have.
Since having my own children I have additionally organised numerous children's parties, using sound and lighting to create a fun-filled party atmosphere. This has been a great way to experiment with a selection of party lighting, and effects machines, such as smoke, bubble and snow machines. Halloween events are particularly enjoyable, with smoke and strobe machines creating a spooky atmosphere that the children love.
My passion and expertise have continued to grow as the years have gone by. I love carrying out research to learn how each product works and to find out what features are included. The sound and lighting industry is a fascinating area that is continuing to develop as technology improves, and I enjoy discovering all the latest products.
My main interests are active speakers, record players, party lighting, and effects machines, such as smoke and snow machines. As a parent to two young children, I am also very interested in musical instruments for learners, as this is a brilliant way to develop creative skills.
Par Can Lights have long been a favourite choice in professional stage lighting, known for their versatility, reliability, and ability to create a strong visual impact across a wide range of events. Whether you're lighting a live band, shaping the look of a theatre show, or adding atmosphere to a festival, these fixtures continue to play an important role in modern production.
Par Cans have continued to adapt, making them a dependable choice for designers and technicians who want straightforward fixtures that deliver consistent results. Now we have set the stage —pun intended— we will explore a variety of different types, looking at how they work, and which models suit different professional setups.
A theatre lighting truss system is the backbone of any professional stage setup. It’s what keeps the lights, speakers, and visual effects safely supported and perfectly positioned to create the right atmosphere for every performance. Whether it’s a community stage or a large touring production, the right trussing system makes all the difference.
In this guide, we’ll explore the most popular theatre lighting truss options available today, from fixed installations to mobile setups. We’ll also highlight some of our most trusted products, showing how each one helps bring performances to life. Whether you’re managing a theatre, touring company, or school stage, there’s a trussing system that fits your needs perfectly.
Stage lighting is one of the most important parts of any performance. It shapes how an audience sees, feels, and connects with what’s happening on stage. Whether it’s a concert, theatre show, or outdoor event, good lighting brings the whole experience together.
In this guide, we’ll explore the main types of stage lighting, what they’re used for, and how they work together to create the perfect visual performance. From spotlights to wash lights, blinders to lasers, you’ll find out what makes each one unique, and how the right combination can bring your stage to life.
A well-designed finish line structure is one of the most important features of any race event. It’s more than just the point where participants cross to complete their challenge; it’s the focal moment that defines the atmosphere of the day. From charity runs to full-scale marathons and motorsport competitions, the finish line is where excitement, relief, and celebration all come together.
In this blog, we’ll explore a range of finish line solutions, from gantries to arches, showcasing options that suit everything from local events to major sporting occasions. We’ll also provide useful suggestions to create safe, reliable, and professional race finishes. Whether you’re planning a charity fun run, a city marathon, or a high-profile motorsport event, the right structure makes all the difference.
Church stage design plays a far bigger role in worship than many people first realise. The stage is the focal point of a service, drawing attention to the message being shared, the music being performed, and the sense of community being created. A well-thought-out stage setup can completely change how a congregation experiences their time together.
This blog will explore a wide range of church stage design ideas, from simple customisable solutions to complete staging systems. Along the way, we’ll showcase practical examples designed for churches of every size, and explain how the right staging can support your worship space both visually and practically.
Concert stage design plays a vital role in how any event feels, looks, and flows. From the biggest summer festival to a local community gig, the stage is the centrepiece where performers connect with audiences. A well-planned setup not only looks professional but also ensures safety and comfort for performers and crew.
This blog will explore the many options available, from modular platforms to full staging kits and roof systems. We’ll also look at how choices vary depending on event size and setting. Whether you’re organising a small festival or a large show, the right stage design makes all the difference.
Stage Roof and Stage deck package designed and supplied for Bishops Castle Michaelmas Fair.
The project budget was limited due to grant funding, but the organisers required a special solution as the stage system needed to be used on a 1 in 10 gradient slope.
London’s Excel centre was home to the Bett Show 2020 from the 22nd to the 25th of January.
Stage Concepts and its sister companies Audio Installations and ElectroMarket combined under the SC Projects banner to offer a selection of stage platforms, lighting effects, and school audio systems.
1
