LDInstitute™
From cutting-edge software to hands-on training on lighting consoles and media servers, as well as essential rigging and electrical courses, lasers, AI, content creation, and our insider club and venue tours, the LDInstitute™ is the most comprehensive professional training program our industry has to offer. Register for one or more of these courses, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to further your career with new skills and enhanced knowledge.
Hands-On Software Training
Harness the power of the latest software, from designing and drafting to content creation and AI. Soar to the next level of creativity with Vectorworks Spotlight & Braceworks, TouchDesigner, Resolume, MadMapper and Carbon: all in small hands-on classes to add visual sophistication to your visual toolkit. View the sessions here.
Hands-On Media Server Training
Get a first-hand introduction to two of the best media server systems on the planet: Green Hippo and Pixera. From fundamentals to media management, playback and projection mapping, move into a 3D world where your imagination can run wild. Check out the courses here.
Lighting Console Training
Sharpen your lighting programming skills or learn the ins and outs of a new console, with hands-on training on some of the industry’s state-of-the-art consoles. Challenge yourself in small, hands-on classes, or sign up for the exciting Battle of the Busk training and competition to learn what it takes to be at the top of your game when you program on the fly! Check out the courses here.
Rigz! A Two Day LDI Rigging Intensive
Programmed in conjunction with expert riggers Tracy Nunnally of Vertigo, Eric Rouse of Sapsis Rigging, and for all riggers, facility managers, technical directors, designers, and all those interested in the ins and outs of rigging safety and practices. The two days include the following sessions featuring industry experts as well as a complimentary reception on Saturday evening with drinks and food. Check out the courses here.
Laser Training
Presented in conjunction with the International Laser Display Association (www.ilda.com), these courses are a must for all professionals working in the field of laser light shows and displays. Check out the courses here.
Stage Managers Academy
The SMA has collaborated with LDI to put together a very timely series of conversations surrounding innovations (or changes) in the field and how they fit into our daily work life. Please join us at LDI at a two-day event especially designed for stage and event managers in the live entertainment industry: The Stage Managers Academy at LDI 2026. Learn more here.
Architectural Lighting
XLIVE: The Concert Touring Sessions
These sessions will explore the concert touring and festival industries from every angle. Moderated by Butch Allen of TAIT and Bob Bonniol of ACT Entertainment.
Now in its second year, XLIVE at LDI continues to bring together respected voices and working professionals from across the live entertainment production community. Designed to foster real-world insight and meaningful conversation, the program creates space for industry leaders to share lessons learned, evolving best practices, and perspectives on where touring and live events are headed next.
From creative disciplines such as set and lighting design to production management, logistics, operations, and beyond, XLIVE bridges generations—connecting seasoned veterans with emerging talent and those looking to build a career in live entertainment production. Learn more here.
Ethernet for Entertainment
This year, LDI has expanded its essential Ethernet For Entertainment classes. Traditionally a full day, this training now covers two full days with three half-days sessions led by Javid Butler: Day 1 Morning - Entertainment Network Basics; Day 1 Afternoon - Entertainment Network Setup; Day 2 Morning - Entertainment Network Troubleshooting and Security. Day 2 afternoon continues with hands-on training presented by Netgear and NETRON/Obsidian Control Systems.