Whether you’re a student planning your first stage plan or a seasoned pro working on large-scale productions, Spotlight 2026 helps you work faster and smarter.
Here’s a look at what’s new. Lighting, set, and entertainment design are always evolving, and so is Vectorworks Spotlight. The 2026 release brings powerful new tools that make designing, documenting, and presenting ideas easier than ever.
A NEW DIMENSION WITH THE LED WALL TOOL
The LED Video Wall tool in Vectorworks lets you design anything from simple flat walls to complex curved installations in compelling visualized views. You can even take advantage of Showcase to play content back on your video walls. The tool generates detailed reports on dimensions, parts, pixel resolution, and other specs to streamline communication with event crews and suppliers. The tool also documents video signal flow and power requirements, integrating power and data management through ConnectCAD-style workflows for smooth project coordination.
WORKSHEETS THAT WORK HARDER
The modern Worksheet interface uses a ribbon-style toolbar that makes customizing worksheets straightforward. It lets you split worksheets into print-ready, automatically linked pages with pinned headers that repeat to match your sheet layout. The result: easier reporting, accurate data, and polished project documentation.
FILE HEALTH CHECKER
Keep your Vectorworks files running smoothly with the File Health Checker palette. It automatically scans for hidden geometry, inefficient settings, and resource issues, then helps you fix them instantly or walk through solutions step by step. With your files optimized for peak performance, you can focus less on maintenance and more on bringing your ideas to life.
FREE LICENSES FOR STUDENTS AND EDUCATORS
Vectorworks Spotlight isn’t just for professionals in the field — it’s also built for the classroom. Students and educators can access free educational licenses, giving them full access to the latest tools and preparing them to step confidently into the industry. It’s our commitment to supporting the next generation of entertainment and design professionals.
STUDENT2PRO: THE BRIDGE TO PROFESSIONAL WORK
Graduating doesn’t mean losing access to the tools you’ve mastered. With the student2PRO program, recent grads can continue using Spotlight with a 40% discount on an annual professional subscription. It’s a way to stay connected to the same powerful features you used in school without breaking the bank.
👉 Unlock your student2PRO discount here
WHY IT MATTERS
Spotlight 2026 is a statement about where design is headed. From embracing virtual production to making collaboration seamless, these updates reflect the realities of modern workflows. For students, it’s a chance to learn on the same tools used by top professionals. For educators, it’s a way to bring industry-standard software into the classroom. And for graduates, it’s a smoother transition into professional life.
The world of entertainment and design is competitive. Having access to cutting-edge software can make all the difference. With Spotlight 2026, every user — from the classroom to the concert stage — can push their creativity further.