Entertainment Rigging Services in Toronto, GTA & Ontario
If you’re putting a show together, running a venue, or dealing with anything that involves equipment above people’s heads, you already know this isn’t something you take lightly.
At Vertigo Research Labs, we’ve been handling entertainment rigging since 1984 across Toronto, the GTA, and Ontario. We’ve worked in arenas, theatres, film sets, and live productions where things need to be done right the first time.
Professional Rigging Support For
- Concerts, arenas and live events
- Theatres and performance venues
- Film, television and stunt rigging
- Chain hoist repair, testing and maintenance
- Fall protection and rigging training
A Rigging Company That Understands Real-World Production
There’s a big difference between general contractors and people who actually understand how entertainment rigging works in real conditions.
Every venue is different. Every load behaves differently. Every production has its own challenges and timelines. We’ve worked in large arenas, theatres with fly systems, film and television environments, and temporary setups where things need to go up and come down quickly without issues.
Some jobs are straightforward. Others involve tight spaces, complex loads, or equipment that needs to move during a performance. That’s where experience matters.
When equipment is hanging over people, “good enough” is not good enough.
Rigging Services for Theatres, Arenas, Film Sets and Live Events
We provide a full range of rigging services for the entertainment industry, whether you are planning a production or working with an existing setup.
Stage & Arena Rigging
Rigging for concerts, live events, and large-scale productions including truss systems, lighting, audio equipment, and chain hoists.
Theatre Rigging
Support for theatres, including fly systems, counterweight systems, curtains, scenery, and equipment positioning for performance use.
Film & Television Rigging
Specialized rigging for film sets, camera systems, stunt work, and custom production requirements.
Rigging Inspections & Safety
Rigging inspections, risk assessments, load evaluations, and safety reviews to ensure compliance and proper operation.
Chain Hoist Repair, Testing and Maintenance in Toronto
Chain hoists are one of those things nobody thinks about until they stop working. When they do, everything else stops with them.
We provide chain hoist repair, maintenance, and testing services across Toronto and the GTA.
- Electric chain hoist repair
- CM hoist servicing
- Troubleshooting and diagnostics
- Preventative maintenance
- Load testing and safety checks
- Entertainment hoist support
Rigging Training for People Working at Height
Training is a big part of working safely in this industry. It needs to be practical and based on real-world situations, not just theory.
Fall Protection Training
Covers harness use, suspension safety, rescue planning, and Ontario safety requirements.
Basic Rigging Course
A full introduction to rigging principles, equipment, loads, forces, knots, and chain hoist operation.
Advanced Rigging Training
For experienced riggers looking to develop advanced skills and prepare for certification.
Chain Hoist & Motor Training
Hands-on training in hoist operation, maintenance, repair, and safe usage.
Custom Training Programs
Training tailored to your venue, your equipment, and your team.
Venue Safety Support
Practical support for safer setups, better procedures, and stronger crew knowledge.
Rigging Experts Since 1984
Vertigo Research Labs was founded by Mongo Andrews, who has been working in the entertainment industry since the 1970s.
His background includes theatre, touring concerts, film and television, and stunt rigging. He has worked in environments where safety and precision are critical.
Mongo is ETCP certified in both arena and theatre rigging and is an ETCP recognized trainer. This experience comes from decades of real work in real conditions — not theory.
Why Clients Choose Vertigo Research Labs
There are a lot of people who say they can do rigging. Not all of them should. Clients work with us because we understand real production environments, focus on safety, work efficiently without cutting corners, and give straight answers about what works and what does not.
ETCP Certified
Senior riggers certified in arena and theatre rigging with recognized training experience.
Real Production Experience
Hands-on experience across theatres, arenas, concerts, film sets, television, and stunt work.
Safety First
Rigging inspections, risk assessments, rescue planning, and safe equipment practices.
Toronto & Ontario
Serving Toronto, the GTA, Ontario, and entertainment clients across Canada and the United States.
What Our Clients Say
“Mongo was willing to go the extra mile to help with our rigging for an upcoming show.”
Mary Ann“We’re very happy with the results and the professionalism.”
Frederick“We needed stage rigging on short notice and everything was handled properly.”
Karla MayFrequently Asked Questions
What is entertainment rigging?
Entertainment rigging refers to the systems and equipment used to safely lift, support, and move lighting, scenery, and production equipment.
Do you provide rigging services in Toronto?
Yes, we provide rigging services across Toronto, the GTA, and Ontario.
How long does a rigging job take?
It depends on the project. Some setups take a few hours, others take a full day or more.
Do you offer training courses?
Yes, we offer fall protection, basic, advanced, and custom rigging training programs.
Need Rigging, Training or Chain Hoist Service?
If you have a project coming up or need help with an existing setup, reach out. We’ll take a look, give you a clear answer, and let you know what needs to be done.