Visitor registration for MEET 2026 is now open. On 18 and 19 November, the VIECON – Vienna Congress & Convention Centre will once again become the international meeting place for the event, theatre and media technology sectors.
As an international trade fair for event technology with an integrated conference on events and theatre, MEET combines technological innovation with the creative demands of art, culture and live entertainment.
The event brings together manufacturers, designers, technical directors, event organisers, theatre companies, cultural professionals and specialists from Austria, the DACH region and beyond.
The focus is on the latest technical developments, new ways of working and personal exchanges on the future of the industry. More than 100 exhibitors will be presenting innovative products and solutions from the fields of lighting, audio, video, stage technology, networking, digitalisation and media technology.
The opening event alone promises to be a special start. At the official opening, visitors can look forward to an artistic programme featuring performances from the world of musicals.
A central element of MEET 2026 is the extensive conference and lecture programme. Current developments, new technologies and innovative practical examples will be presented in two lecture theatres, as well as on the OETHG stage and in the round-table area.
The range of topics extends from lighting, audio and media technology, through XR applications and digital production processes, to safety issues, skills development and sustainability.
One of the programme’s particular highlights is the presentation ‘LIGHT FANTASTIC – Max Keller’s seminal work returns’. This new edition of one of the best-known works on stage lighting impressively illustrates the development of professional lighting design and its significance for modern performing arts.
Another key focus is on the training and qualification of future professionals. The talk ‘Practical Experience Becomes Qualification – New Educational Pathways for Professionals in Event Technology’ presents the new opportunities in higher vocational education and highlights prospects for professional development within the sector.
Specialist groups of the Austrian Theatre Technical Society (OETHG) are shaping the future of the sector
The OETHG’s specialist groups will once again play a key role in shaping the MEET programme in 2026.
In a series of open roundtable discussions, experts will address current challenges and future issues in the fields of safety, multimedia, training, costume, make-up and sustainable event production. The formats are specifically designed to encourage participation in the discussion and networking.
Particular attention is being paid to the topic of sustainability. The roundtable ‘Thinking ahead instead of throwing away: From the circular economy to the industry’s current sustainability issues’ will explore how resource-efficient working practices and sustainable production processes can be successfully implemented in theatre and event organisations. Through dialogue with experts from the fields of culture, academia, law and European innovation projects, the focus will be on concrete practical solutions.
Admission to MEET 2026 and the entire conference programme is free of charge for trade visitors. Due to the extensive programme and the high demand expected, the organisers recommend registering online well in advance.
