EXPO-SCENE 2026 A Resounding Success
EXPO-SCÈNE 2026 wrapped up on a high note, maintaining its steady momentum with solid attendance, a packed show floor, and the addition of several new exhibiting companies.
Produced by the Canadian Institute for Theatre Technology, the event once again demonstrated its essential role as a central meeting point for the entertainment technology industry in Canada and beyond.
Held annually in Montréal, Québec, EXPO-SCÈNE draws more than 1,900 professionals from across North America and Europe. Technicians, designers, students, buyers and decision-makers come together under one roof to discover the latest innovations and connect with key players in audio, lighting, video, staging, rigging, special effects, systems integration, health and safety, education, and more. This year's edition delivered on that promise, featuring a sold-out exhibition floor with nearly 90 companies and over 100 brands across 70 booths.
Strong Momentum Driven by High Engagement and a Sense of Excitement
Lines formed before the doors opened on both the first and second days, setting the tone for a high-energy event that carried through to the final hours. Exhibitors welcomed a steady flow of engaged visitors, with booths standing out for their creativity, dynamic layouts, and knowledgeable staff. Across the floor and in the foyer, a lively atmosphere prevailed, supported by interactive features and surprises that added to the overall experience.
Engagement extended beyond the venue, with strong activity on social media and a steady stream of positive feedback from attendees and exhibitors alike. The overall sentiment reflected a shared enthusiasm for reconnecting in person and a collective confidence in the industry’s continued growth.The mix of visitors reflected the industry's breadth and diversity. Key sectors such as concerts, touring, integration, theatre, music, and festivals were well represented.
Approximately 80 percent of attendees reported being directly involved in purchasing decisions or influencing them, underscoring the event’s value for both exhibitors and participants.
“EXPO-SCÈNE 2026 is a powerful reflection of the vitality, resilience, and national importance of Canada’s live performance and events industry,” said Jacquie Lazar, Executive Director of CITT/ICTS.
“As the country’s premier gathering for our sector, it plays a critical role in connecting professionals, showcasing innovation, and supporting the continued growth of the Canadian market. We are very pleased with the outcome of this year’s event. The enthusiasm and satisfaction expressed by our organization, the EXPO-SCÈNE team, and our exhibitors speak to the exceptional quality of the experience delivered. We are proud of we have accomplished this year and are looking ahead with optimism for next year’s edition.”
A Rich Program of Hands-on Learning and Professional Development
Again this year, the demo rooms provided exclusive access to new products and direct interaction with local sales representatives. Attendees also benefited from high-level training sessions on leading industry technologies, including WATCHOUT 7, ETC Eos consoles, grandMA3, and haze and fog systems with Hazebase. These sessions reinforced the event’s reputation as a place not only to discover products, but also to deepen technical expertise.
The TEC Talk series further enriched the experience, offering free sessions on timely topics such as insurance, eco-responsibility, and career pathways in the entertainment sector. Participants also had the opportunity to learn more about show equipment, software, and professional certification, contributing to a well-rounded and forward-looking program.
Save the date: EXPO-SCÈNE 2027 is April 7–8
Planning for the next edition is already underway, with a focus on strengthening what works and expanding opportunities for networking, partnerships, technology discovery, and career advancement. As EXPO-SCÈNE continues to evolve, it remains committed to serving as a catalyst for innovation and collaboration within the industry.The next edition of EXPO-SCÈNE will take place on April 7 and 8, 2027, at the Palais des congrès de Montréal. Industry professionals are invited to mark their calendars and join once again for Canada’s leading event dedicated to entertainment technology.
To learn more about EXPO-SCÈNE, please visit: www.citt.org/ExpoScene.html
About CITT/ICTS:
The Canadian Institute for Theatre Technology / Institut canadien des technologies scénographiques (CITT/ICTS) is a national arts service organization that promotes the professional development of its members and the betterment of the Canadian live performance community
Website - www.citt.org