Showay

May / June 2008

Billed as 'a show for professionals by professionals', Show-Way is a brand new Italian entertainment technology exhibition.

The show is being promoted by APIAS (Associazione Produttorie Importatori Attressature Per Lo Spettacolo), the Italian association of manufacturers and importers of equipment for the entertainment industry. 

APIAS has devised Show-Way not just as an occasion to preview the latest technological innovations for 2008, but also as an opportunity for professionals, manufacturers and users to look more deeply into all the issues involved in staging live events, such as health & safety and technical training.

This was reflected in the series of tightly focused seminars and demonstrations, covering a wide range of up-to-the-minute industry topics and technologies from the areas of lighting, sound, video, AV, staging and special effects.

Competing directly with Rimini’s long-running SIB exhibition, APIAS felt there was a strong need for a new, biennial event to support the sector and its growth. With a strong presence from not only a large number of Italian companies, but also a healthy selection of international brands, Show-Way was successful with its first show, held over three days (February 24-26) at the Fiera di Bergamo venue.

APIAS chairman Augusto Andraghetti commented: “The show came into being because it was expressly requested by the majority of APIAS members, who wanted an event that follows changing market conditions and real company needs.”

A relaxed atmosphere was evident at all times and there was plenty of quality time to meet with new and old acquaintances.

As far as access to the exhibition is concerned, it couldn’t be easier, especially for international visitors. The venue lies at the centre of North Italy’s airport and motorway system, only 2km from Milan-Orio al Serio airport, and very close to the Milan-Venice motorway.

Outside of the steel and glass of the industrialised area, ld Bergamo is dripping with cultural heritage. It has an old medieval hilltop town centre and is surrounded by charming mountain and lake scenery. Its accommodation capacity has recently been increased with important new modern hotel facilities... and the food and wine are amazing!