Wenger Corporation and Creative Conners will demonstrate Spikemark Vantis – a new handheld control solution built on the Spikemark software platform – at USITT 2026 (to be held on 18-21 March in Long Beach, California). The controller is designed to simplify operation of motorised rigging, venue machinery and show motion technology, while offering a path towards more advanced automation.
The two companies, united under the Wenger portfolio since 2025, will demonstrate workflows on the device at booth 927, covering jogging, grouping and recalling preset looks. They will also show how it fits into the broader Spikemark suite – allowing venues to modernise controls while keeping much of their existing equipment.
The booth will feature Spikemark Vantis controlling a Floorpocket V2 pit lift, a Pushstick Mini deck winch, a Rotator with turntable, an H&H 400 Series track with traction-drive curtain machine, and a Summit Hoist equipped with the new Stagehand Lineset hoist-mounted motor controller.
Wenger will also participate in the show’s Automation Lab, a separate area where equipment from multiple manufacturers is installed in real-world configurations for hands-on use. Attendees will be able to operate additional Creative Conners machines including Revolver and Pivot turntable solutions, Smart Chain Hoists (variable-speed chain hoists), Pushstick (the larger deck winch), and Spotline (a single-line overhead hoist), controlled via Spikemark Vantis and Spikemark Console.
Spikemark Vantis combines a touchscreen, joystick and preset looks to support repeatable room setups. The companies said that Spikemark software enables deeper automation as needs grow. The modular upgrade path incorporates Stagehand motion controllers and Showstopper emergency stop systems. The platform is designed to unify multiple motorised venue systems – for example rigging, screens, masking, acoustics and lifts – under a single control environment, including equipment from mixed manufacturers and of varied ages.
“Venues shouldn’t have to choose between a simple wall panel for everyday setup and a specialty automation system for performance,” said Gareth Conner, director of controls technology at Wenger. “Spikemark Vantis bridges that gap – simple when you need it and able to manage a sophisticated ecosystem when you’re ready to do more.”
