Over the years the success of ABTT can be attributed as much to British engineering and ingenuity, as it can to a passion for the theatre. Many UK-based companies have exhibited at ABTT since its inception, including CCT Lighting, Lee Filters, Rosco and White Light - all have pioneered technology in theatre and augmented the potential of productions across the international stage.
Growing from a small niche event at The Donmar Warehouse, the ABTT Show now fills London’s Royal Horticultural Halls to capacity and is attended by over 2,000 visitors from around Europe. Celebrating its 25th anniversary and its 11th year at The Royal Horticultural Halls, this year’s event will be a sell-out show with a record number of exhibitors - over 100 companies will showcase their products and services for the theatre and live performance industries.
Recognized as the only dedicated platform where visitors can go ‘backstage’ and meet the people behind the technology, ABTT plays host to the entire spectrum of suppliers and service companies: from lighting and sound through to rigging, prop makers, scenery builders and costume designers, ABTT offers a one-stop shop for the theatre industry.
This years’ silver’ edition will see several new product launches, including ADB’s brand new moving light which is being delivered to the show in style by an original 1929 steam lorry - the Shrewsbury Knave. Theatre sound specialist Orbital will showcase the revolutionary S6000 miniature radio mic from Trantec whilst Triple E will present the latest in counterweight motorization, and Doughty Engineering will show its innovative new power hoist.
Show director, Roger Fox, commented: "We’re delighted that in our 25th year, the show is in a sell-out position. It not only highlights the success of the show as a platform to launch new product, but underlines that companies are still passionate about bringing the best out of British and international theatre."
Never losing sight of its roots and being totally committed to the future of theatre, ABTT offers its support to colleges and drama schools including Mountview and the Central school of Speech and Drama. In addition, a series of seminars and masterclasses are staged during the event. Covering a wide range of issues, these illustrate the organization’s commitment to high standards and practice within theatre. You can pre-register to attend the event at the website below.
(Ruth Rossington)
