After discussing options, Coventry and Graham agreed on a three-day rigging course offered by Chris Higgs at Total Fabrications. This course is often conducted at a client's site, and Coventry and Graham felt a theatre environment would better suit their needs, while Higgs had previously hosted training there for the ENO. Fortunately, the New Wimbledon Theatre was dark for its summer break and so it provided the perfect venue.
The New Wimbledon Theatre is part of the Ambassador Theatre Group (ATG) - one of the country's foremost theatre producers. It is also the UK's second largest theatre group with a total of 23 venues both in the West End and regionally. Graham therefore extended an invitation to staff from ATG's other theatres to participate.
The course, using equipment from Total Fabrications, along with rigging equipment from White Light's extensive hire stock, was attended by four White Light crew members and four from ATG, including one person from the Theatre Royal Brighton and one from the Churchill Theatre in Bromley. The course continues both White Light's and ATG's ongoing commitment to training for both its own staff and those working throughout the entertainment lighting industry. This commitment has seen White Light gain 'approved contractor' status for a variety of companies and venues. Most recently, White Light has been added to the 'Approved List of Competent Contractors (Health and Safety)' at London Weekend Television.
(Lee Baldock)
