Association of British Theatre Technicians

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Overview and Membership
– ABTT founded in 1961 by theatre producers, technicians, and architects
– Ensures regulations are drafted and enforced, publishes recommended Codes of Practice
– Aims to set physical standards for building and equipment in entertainment premises
– Charitable Organization under English law, operates in England, Wales, Northern Ireland, and Scotland
– Volunteer technical committees liaise with government and other organizations
– Small staff team led by CEO Robin Townley
– Governed by Memorandum and Articles of Association, registered as a charitable organization
– 11 trustees appointed for their expertise in theatre, stage management, architecture, etc.
– Funding derived from memberships, donations, and training proceeds
– Principal source of income from annual ABTT Theatre Show

Remit and History
– Established in 1961 to advance technical subjects in theatre and theatrical presentation
– Offers guidance and advice through Codes of Practice on planning, health and safety, architecture, etc.
– Covers a range of buildings, including old and new theatres, temporary theatrical spaces
– ABTT Theatre Show is an annual trade show covering lighting, audiovisual, set construction, etc.
– Relevant to theatre, TV, film, commercial work, addressing health and safety, codes of practice, etc.
– ABTT Theatre Show running since 1978, rebranded in 2001
– Event locations include Shaftesbury Theatre, Roundhouse, Riverside Studios, Old Truman Brewery, Alexandra Palace
– Isobel Hatton appointed as Theatre Show Director in 2019
– 42nd ABTT Theatre Show postponed in 2020 due to coronavirus outbreak
– Collaboration with PLASA for 2021 event at Olympia London

ABTT Awards
– ABTT Awards presented annually at the Theatre Show
– Joint ceremony with Stage Management Association in 2014
– Hosted by actress Lesley Manville
– Recognizes excellence in stage management
– Promotes and celebrates achievements in the industry

Resources
– Codes of Practice provide guidance on technical theatre fields
– Contributor to Technical Standard for Places of Entertainment publication
– Publishes Sightline journal quarterly
– Publishes health and safety, technical theatre books
– Maintains committees for research on technical and historical issues

ABTT Theatre Show Overview
– ABTT Theatre Show is an annual event organized by the Association of British Theatre Technicians (ABTT)
– The event showcases the latest advancements and technologies in the theatre industry
– ABTT Theatre Show has been held since at least 1987
– The show provides a platform for theatre management and technicians to connect and exchange ideas
– The event has received awards and recognition for its contributions to the industry
– ABTT Theatre Show has been held at various locations, including the Royal Horticultural Halls
– The event has found a new home after losing its previous venue
– The show has been collaborating and co-locating with other industry events, such as PLASA
– ABTT Theatre Show has been postponed in certain years, like in 2020
– The event has published annual reports that provide insights into its activities and achievements
– ABTT Theatre Show attracts a wide range of exhibitors, including companies specializing in lighting, sound, rigging, and stage technology
– The event also welcomes professionals from the theatre industry, including technicians, designers, and managers
– Exhibitors showcase their products and services through demonstrations and presentations
– ABTT Theatre Show offers networking opportunities for participants to connect with potential clients and collaborators
– The event provides a platform for exhibitors and participants to stay updated on the latest trends and innovations in the industry
– ABTT Theatre Show has received awards and recognitions for specific products and systems, such as the Tiger Lifting Chain Block System
– The event has been highly commended for its contributions to the industry
– ABTT Theatre Show has been recognized as a valuable platform for showcasing new technologies and advancements
– The show’s awards and recognitions highlight its impact on the theatre industry
– ABTT Theatre Show has published prospectuses and reports that provide valuable information about the event
– The show’s website offers an overview of the event and its objectives
– ABTT Theatre Show has been featured in industry publications, such as ArtsProfessional and Sightline
– The Association of Performing Arts Collections has archived materials related to ABTT Theatre Show
– The event provides useful links to resources on event safety and industry guidelines Source:  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Association_of_British_Theatre_Technicians

The Association of British Theatre Technicians (ABTT) is a British charitable organisation representing technical staff working within theatre.

Association of British Theatre Technicians
Formation1961
TypeProfessional association
Legal statusCharitable organisation
PurposeTo raise technical standards in the theatre
HeadquartersLondon, EC1
United Kingdom
Revenue
From the ABTT Theatre Show, conferences, training and membership subscriptions
Websitewww.abtt.org.uk
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+1 (949) 289-6286