As theatre practitioners in a teaching environment, school theatre staff can be in a unique and isolated situation, outside of regular theatre, but with the same intentions, products, rules and problems. The group currently has nearly 100 members from a wide range of independent and state schools, colleges and universities around the country, allowing members to share ideas and problems specific to school theatres, as well as raising awareness of school theatre work amongst fellow professionals.
The conference was organised by Paul Durose of The Leys School, Cambridge, and was hosted by Rugby School and sponsored by A.C. Lighting, with additional support from ETC and Zero 88. There were two main conference sessions - the first organised by A.C. Lighting, featuring Craig Sheppard from the RSC and a demonstration of moving lights. The second was an interesting and informative seminar by theatre architect Tim Foster, who talked about some of his theatres built for schools and the problems faced when designing a small-scale theatre space.
Zero 88 was also in attendance to demonstrate their Leap Frog and Jester consoles, both ideal for schools. After the day conference, delegates enjoyed a dinner and stay at a local hotel.
(Jim Evans)
