ABTT Council

The ABTT Council is the governing body of the Association. The council is elected by the membership every two years.

THE following committee pages are available for ABTT members only.

Historical Research Committee

The Committee has two main objectives; To document and record the onset of technology being used in the field of entertainment, and to evaluate the importance of technical installations and artefacts, especially where they are threatened with either demolition or destruction.

The Committee is just as keen to write down what is going on now, In order to save someone, in 30 or 40 years time, having to delve about in creaky old files, to find out what is common knowledge to all of us.

The Committee has been able to provide policy advice for the Theatres Trust, working closely with them to monitor installations in theatre buildings. It is not a question of trying to stand in the way of progress, but rather making sure that what has been successful, useful and relevant is properly recorded.

ABTT Technology Working Group

The committee is made up of experts and seeks to maintain a balance of senior technicians, consultants, designers, and managers. Nevertheless, the Committee welcomes the involvement of any interested member of the ABTT.

The Committees work is divided into working panels and sub committees. These groups are expected to report back to the full Committee for action. Typical subjects under review may include Connectors, British and International Standards, Noise issues.

NorthNet

The committee was formed in 1970 to provide a forum for technicians in the north of England. It is very active and has arranged visits and meetings covering a wide range of subjects.

Safety Committee

The Safety committee is one of the busiest in the Association. As well as working on projects for the ABTT, members also represent the industry on many standards bodies and maintains contact with the Home Office, the Department of the Environment, the Health & Safety Executive and other bodies such as the Panels formulating model Rules of Management and model Technical Regulations.

Theatre Planning committee

The ABTT Theatre aims to provide impartial advice at planning stage to improve the design and technical standards to new or refurbished performing arts buildings of any size. It reviews plans for new and remodelled theatres, opera houses, performing arts centres and concert halls which are brought to it by clients, consultants and architects.

Training & Education Committee

The Training & Education Committee aims to work towards the best provision for pre-entry training for Technicians and Designers by engaging in all relevant debates affecting technical training and qualification of the Association members and thereby raise the profile of the ABTT in technical training.

Society of British Theatre Designers

The SBTD is a sister organisation to the ABTT, and is run from the same office. It aims to enhance the standing of British theatre design at home and abroad. One example is the organisation every four years of an exhibition of theatre design which in part also represents Britain at the International Quadrennial in Prague.

Production Managers Forum

The Production Managers’ Forum is a joint venture between the ABTT and the SMA (Stage Management Association) in recognition of the fact that there was no organisation dedicated to the needs of the Production Manager specifically. There aren’t vast numbers of Production Managers out there, and most of them are either members of the ABTT or the SMA….hence the collaboration. Production Management is a lonely job – you’re probably the only one within 60 miles, unless you work in London, so the PMF offers an opportunity to meet up with peers and form networks.