Classic Gear Live returns to PLASA Show at Olympia for the fifth year in 2026, featuring a showcase of classic production equipment used by the likes of David Bowie, Pink Floyd and The Who.

This year’s edition marks two major anniversaries relevant to the technology on display: 50 years since the National Theatre opened on London’s South Bank, and 40 years since the launch of Vari-Lite’s Series 200 system.

To mark the National Theatre anniversary, visitors can see lighting control systems spanning its history, from the original Lightboard console to an early ETC Eos, alongside the original Olivier Theatre automation console and a prototype Drum Revolve.

For the Vari-Lite anniversary, rare fixtures including the VL3 and VL6 will be on show, with pioneers Jim Bornhorst and Tom Littrell joining the stand on Sunday and Monday.

CH Vintage Audio will show rare touring mixers linked to major 1970s artists, including consoles used by David Bowie, Pink Floyd and The Who. Also returning is Betty, the Strand lighting console that ran London’s Palace Theatre from 1956 to 1980, marking 70 years since her debut.

Two related sessions run in the PLASA Show seminar programme on 6 and 7 September, covering Vari-Lite’s history and the National Theatre’s technology over five decades.

PLASA Show takes place at Olympia London from 6-8 September 2026.