The Lighting Product of the Year went to The Arc LED Houselight System from Global Design Solutions. The judges were impressed by the wireless dimming performance of these bespoke fittings manufactured to retrofit existing tungsten lighting in auditoriums and Front of House locations. Honourable mentions went to the LEDKO Reflection LED profile spot and the Robe Robin Wash 600.
Shure's new Axient Radio Microphone System took the award for Sound Product of the Year at the ABTT Product of the Year Awards. Axient was recognised by the judging panel for its clever frequency management, as well as its increased spectral efficiency, allowing large numbers of wireless channels to operate simultaneously in a challenging environment.
The Engineering Product of the Year was awarded to Stage Technologies CH:i chain hoist intelligence system. The judges commented on the on-board axis controller coupled to a variable-speed drive giving a 500kg chainhoist capable of up to 20 metres per minute. The system is compatible with existing Stage Technology controllers as well as other manufacturers. Honourable mentions went to the "small but beautiful" unbreakable plastic track runner from Triple E, and the Mayr silent safety brake motor.
Widget of the Year went to Edge Safe from Edge Safe Ltd. The judges felt that this product makes a significant contribution to safety in theatres in that it provides a low profile barrier to stop wheeled items such as flight cases and Tallescopes from falling from the front edge of the stage. Honourable mentions went to the Supertool Ratchet Handle from Flints Theatrical Supplies; the Vortex and Alvio safety helmets from Pretzl and the kit of parts from Aluminium Access Products to convert Tallescopes into safer Work at Height items of equipment.
The ABTT Theatre Show Stand of the Year went to Hoist UK for their "example of how to make something potentially dull look rather appealing". Honourable Mentions went to Sparkes Theatrical and to RB Health and Safety.
There were some products worthy of an award for which no category was available. The judges felt the Conspiracy Theory Award should have gone to Showtex for their extremely black Shakespeare velour drape material is it used by NASA "to simulate moon landings..." Had a Safety Category existed, the Award would have gone to RB Health and Safety Solutions for their tailor-made theatre safety-training scheme with imaginative use of graphics and an innovative teaching method.
The Technician of the Year was awarded to Alex Hitchcock from Stage Technologies. A very popular choice, the Award was presented by Peter Roberts to a man thoroughly involved in training for Automation in theatres both within his company and externally by the writing of National Occupational Skills. Alex' skills are legendary as is his attention to detail and easy going manner.
The Awards ceremony concluded with a collection for the First Night Riders, setting off on Saturday 18 June visiting theatres around the UK raising money for the Theatrical Guild.
(Jim Evans)
