Independent Studio Services at ABTT

Stand No 108 Orange Hall

Independent Studio Services will be exhibiting for the third year running at ABTT where it will be showcasing its range of services and products (Stand 108 Orange Hall).

Specialising in the design, supply and installation of stage engineering systems and offering inspection and preventative maintenance services, the Independent Studio Services’ team will be on hand to discuss customers’ upcoming projects and how they can be best serviced – be it an install or inspection, or a full design and implementation package.

As exclusive distributors for Tüchler, Independent Studio Services will be exhibiting the Tüchler Stage Platform Zoom 1200.

Milos Structural Systems representatives will also be present to speak with clients about their truss requirements for theatre, studio, exhibition or retail, all of which are also stocked by Independent Studio Services in the UK.

Independent Studio Services is also pleased to be joined by Heightec who are  a leading provider of technical equipment, specialist training and operational support services to height safety and rescue professionals worldwide.
They are the only UK manufacturer of technical fall protection and rescue equipment with a national network of dedicated technical training venues.

ATG are on hand promoting their new ‘SET’ brand (Safety, Environmental & Technical) training and services.

“We are really excited to be able to bring together all these manufacturers and their products on our stand,” says Independent Studio Services’ CEO, Simon Caldwell, “Our customers will benefit from direct consultation with the manufacturers and with ourselves so we can showcase just some of the products and services Independent Studio Services offers.”

Come and talk to Independent Studio Services on Stand 108, in the Orange Hall.

A.C. Entertainment Technologies Showcases Exclusive Theatrical Innovations at ABTT 2013

10th June 2013

(Stand 113)

A.C. Entertainment Technologies (AC-ET) Ltd. will be showcasing products at the ABTT 2013 Theatre Show from the many leading brands it distributes exclusively in the UK, including Chroma-Q™, Jands, Spotlight, PixelRange, LedGo, Green Hippo, Christie Nitro and Columbus McKinnon – on stand 113.

Other leading brands on show include High End Systems, SGM, Philips Selecon, Soundcraft, Sennheiser, Traction Sound, Litec and many more.

Lighting

The AC-ET stand is lit by various models from the innovative Chroma-Q performance LED range, including the recently launched, award-winning Inspire™ LED House Light. Entered for this year's ABTT Product of the Year Award, the fixture's multi-purpose, homogenised output RGBW colour-changing capabilities provide designers with a tool to create environments that seamlessly transcend the physical barrier between the stage and audience. The feature set includes a choice of beautiful whites, soft pastels and bold saturates in a single fixture, a high CRI of 90, DMX-512 control, high energy efficiency, silent operation and theatrical-grade dimming, making the Inspire ideal for theatrical lighting applications.

The stand also showcases models from Chroma-Q's Color Force™ / Color Block™ RGBA colour-changing and Studio Force™ / Force Phosphor™ / AutoLED II™ White LED fixtures ranges, which include compact workhorse, foot-long, batten length, moving-head and modular lighting solutions featuring multi-purpose designs, exceptional light output, dimming and colour-blending capabilities perfectly suited to theatrical applications.     

Other luminaire brands showcased include models from Spotlight's award-winning GreenLine range of traditional Fresnel, PC, profile, pole operated and followspot theatrical fixtures utilising the latest high-efficiency LED light sources; Philips Selecon's Acclaim Fresnel and PL1 LED Fresnel; and LED strobe & Par lighting solutions from SGM and PixelRange.

AC-ET's extensive portfolio of lighting control solutions is represented by the recently launched, award-winning Jands Stage CL - an entry level, self contained console that has been specifically “made for LEDs”, making it perfect for amateur-theatre or small venues - and the equally compact Vista S1 control surface running Jands’ innovative Vista v2 software.

Also showcased is High End System's Nano Hog 4. Coupled with Hog 4 PC, the Nano Hog 4 provides users with a single unified surface, turning a laptop or desktop into a fully fledged, powerful and intuitive lighting console.

Audio

From Soundcraft, the powerful, highly flexible and affordable Si Expression digital mixing console range will be represented. Each model is identical in its feature set, so the only choice is how many faders and local mic pre-amps are needed. Ranging from the super portable 19" rack mount Expression 1 to the mighty Si Expression 3 with its 30+2 faders and 32 mic/line inputs, there is a model to meet all theatre applications.

eRack, meanwhile, is an all-in-one, cost effective solution from Sennheiser UK that provides users with a fully assembled, ready to use, four channel evolution G3 wireless system, which includes the 19” rack, an ASA 1 antenna distribution amplifier, power supply, plus all other accessories required, and is custom prepared with four evolution wireless G3 GB systems of users' choice.

From Traction Sound, the SDS 8i 'Gobi' is a compact, full range loudspeaker featuring a low distortion, high output 8" driver and a Traction Sound proprietary SDS Horn™. In addition, the BP 12 'Cub' is a compact, bandpass sub-woofer loudspeaker featuring a low distortion, high excursion 12” driver. Featuring lightweight designs for easy transportation and setup, the models' sound quality is second to none, complemented by heavy duty birch ply construction throughout with a high impact paint finish.

Rigging

The A.C. Rigging team will be showing Columbus McKinnon's Prostar, a compact 250Kg capacity chain hoist in both single and three phase options. Built for the unique rigging applications encountered at smaller venues and incorporating a dual braking system and overload protection for peace of mind.

Also on display will be Litec's range of truss and rigging systems, Out Board Electronics' motor control solutions, BroadWeigh wireless load monitoring devices and a full kit of Petzl's industry standard PPE.

Video

Showing from LedGo's range of modular LED video panels will be their EQ HR / EQ HR Blackface 5mm pitch models - providing high resolution screens which are brilliantly engineered to deliver incredible performance at an economical price. The flagship EQ HR Blackface Line is the ideal solution for creating high contrast and visual depth.

Green Hippo’s GrassHopper media server - running the very latest Hippotizer V3.2 software - will also be on show. Models include the cost-effective, rack-mountable GrassHopper and HippoCritter models, which share the same functionality and components as their bigger brothers.

Representatives from AC-ET’s sales team will be on hand throughout the show to discuss the company’s massive portfolio of over 200 leading brands available from their specialist lighting, audio, rigging and video divisions, as well as their in-house Gel, Cable, and Lamp ‘Express' delivery services, which are primed for a fast turn-around of custom specified consumables.

AC-ET will also be running a number of ‘show-exclusive’ special offers. Drop by stand 113 to meet the team, receive a demo and find out about these fantastic special offers.

Sister company, A.C. Special Projects Ltd. (ACSP), will be on hand to discuss how they can provide bespoke theatrical lighting, audio and AV installations incorporating examples of the very latest technologies showcased on the stand.

A series of informal free seminars taking place on both days, on a wide range of subjects of interest to everyone involved with theatre productions. Booking not needed, just pop in and join your colleagues in some stimulating and informative debates.

Tell your friends! 

 download the full programme

Seminars supported by ShowTex EasyDrape

WEDNESDAY 12th JUNE 2013

11.00 - 11.45   Seminar room  B  BS7909 & BS7671 - Temporary Electrical Systems
James Eade will give a short presentation followed by a Q&A session on the application and need for electrical standards such as the IET Wiring Regulations and BS 7909. Eade has worked in most areas of live events including theatre, touring and corporate events and combines that experience with first-hand knowledge of the standards process, being an active member of the committees that write both BS 7671 and BS 7909. He has also written the first book on the subject, due to be published by the IET in the summer. This seminar will interest anyone involved with the design, planning, rigging or maintenance of temporary electrical installations for special events and touring live entertainment performances.

11.15 - 12.00   Seminar room   A   Set & Props: Re-use and recycling
Scenery Salvage will demonstrate how they have successfully set up a system to cost effectively re-use and re-cycle, on average, 95% of all unwanted items they receive. This is then backed up by an environmental waste audit that Scenery Salvage produce, at no extra cost, to help companies calculate their carbon foot print. This seminar is for set designers, production managers, stage managers, theatre managers and anyone who involved with the management of scenery.

12.00 - 12.45  Seminar room   B   Technical Standards for Places of Entertainment 2013

John Young (ATG), David Staples (Theatre Projects) and a representative of the ABTT will launch the new 2013 edition of Technical Standards for Places of Entertainment. Updated for the first time in five years this edition now includes issues previously contained in the Model National Standard Conditions for Places of Entertainment. Edited by David Adams and published by the Association of British Theatre Technicians, the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health, the District Surveyors Association and the Institute of Licensing, the book sets out the physical standards for buildings, their equipment and the good management of the premises so as to provide for the safety of the performers, staff and the public in premises used for entertainment. It is intended for the use of both responsible authorities and licensees alike as a guide to good practice for anyone concerned with the building, maintenance and operation of places of entertainment.

12.15 - 12.45  Seminar room   A   Keeping Yourself Covered

A representative of JELF Insurance will offer Personal Insurance advice for technicians. This seminar is for freelance technicians and designers.


13.00 - 13.45  Seminar room   B   Updates to the Licensing Act for Smaller Venues

A discussion led by a representative of the ABTT poses the question “How does this really affect you and the industry in general?” Discussion about the likelihood that any venue that does not serve alcohol or seats less than 500 people will no longer need an Entertainments License from this September.

13.30 - 14.15  Seminar room   A   Being Compliant - Risk Assessments

An ABTT representative asks, “Are you putting your risk assessments into practice or into a drawer?” This seminar will be of value to anyone involved in the management or operation of live entertainment venues and performances.

14.00 - 14.45  Seminar room   B   Sound System Planning - your virtual designOran Burns demonstrates how to design a typical sound system suitable for theatre through simulation of point source and line array loudspeakers for sound system designers, operators, engineers and technicians.

14.30 - 15.00  Seminar room   A   Apprenticeships - A Case Study
Bryan Raven explains how the White Light Group has embraced modern apprenticeships and offers the inside story of their experiences. This seminar is for anyone interested in setting up or directing others towards apprenticeship schemes, and for those wanting to join the industry through an apprenticeship.

15.00 - 15.45  Seminar room   B   Thriving Theatres - debateMhora Samuel, Director of The Theatres Trust, will lead a debate on the day following the Theatres Trust's Conference 13. This special ABTT Theatre Show plenary session will debate the key issues that were discussed and reflect on the Trust's conference themes - how theatres can become more financially self sufficient, secure their ownership, and maximise the use of their capital assets for community and audience engagement. This seminar will be of interest to delegates to the Theatres Trust conference, and all those involved with the financing, development and management of entertainment venues.

15.15 - 16.00  Seminar room   A   International Stage ManagementAntonia Collins from the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama will be talking about ‘A Stage Manager Abroad’ giving hints and tips for the young stage manager working overseas. Come to a lively discussion about working as a stage manager internationally. The session will include practical case studies as well as useful tips to help make your project run smoothly. Antonia Collins has been working as a stage manager for over 20 years and has an eclectic array of experience including stage managing in the Far East, the Middle East and Europe. This seminar will be of interest to all stage managers, stage management students, and for others in the creative team looking to work outside the UK.

16.00 - 16.45  Seminar room   B   Are You Competent ?  Can you prove it ? The ABTT Shows You How

What is competence, how does it relate to training and assessment and how can you be sure that you can prove you are competent? The ABTT considers the possession of appropriate skill, knowledge and experience to be the requirements for competence and is working to inform working technicians of how to navigate the world of training and assessment so that they gain valid qualifications. It is also participating wherever possible in the process of establishing nationally recognised validation for competence throughout the technical theatre sector. This seminar will provide an update on the latest developments and explain how you can benefit from seeking assessment of your vocational competence.

16.15 - 17.00  Seminar room   A   British Sign Language - Creating Access through Signs and VisionAlison Pottinger will be covering issues affecting deaf theatre technicians. The seminar will be presented in BSL and English and will be interpreted. It will be of specific interest to  theatre technicians and those working with technicians who have hearing issues.

Seminars supported by ShowTex EasyDrape

THURSDAY 13th JUNE 2013

11.00 - 11.45  Seminar room   A   Production Training - where is the step into work ?
Will Hahn Head of Programme, CC Skills, asks, “Are our further education courses too wide, and give students a false impression of their capabilities? Are Apprenticeships the solution to the next generation of technicians? If you can afford a HE course, are you best doing a specialised course?”
This seminar aims to bring the key voices to play in a session around what ingredients need to be in training, and could our current courses need a shake up? Providers, students and professionals will open the floor to future students and employers around what the next generation of courses should look like to better equip students and the sector for evolving skills bases. The seminar is aimed at anyone with a stake in training, recruiting or supporting initial training for theatre and live events. The National Skills Academy for Creative & Cultural are a network of industry and education partners looking to make the right skills and talent accessible, accessing the best tools and training to support growth of our sector.

 11.15 - 11.45  Seminar room   B   ABTT: "How Can We Help You ?"

As Robin Townley, the Association of British Theatre Technicians’ Associate Executive Officer, completes his first year in the post, this seminar has been scheduled for the benefit of the organisation’s members – and potential members – to hear more on what the ABTT can do for you, as well as its current plans and ambitions. The Q&A format also allows for members to be able to raise any issues relevant to them and offer suggestions that the organisation might act upon, for the good of all.

11.45 - 12.30  Seminar room   A   Review of New Technical Standards

Petrus Bertschinger, Mark White and Rob Weaver will guide you through the revised 2013 edition of Technical Standards and Model Conditions for entertainment venues. Published by the Association of British Theatre Technicians, the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health, the District Surveyors Association and the Institute of Licensing, the book sets out the physical standards for buildings, their equipment and the good management of the premises so as to provide for the safety of the performers, staff and the public in premises used for entertainment. This seminar is a guide to the format and layout of the new guide and a walk-through of where to find what.

11.45 - 12.15  Seminar room   B   Technical Access Passport
Chris Paul from trackingThis and Tom Mannings for the ABTT give an overview of the latest Technical Access Passport (TAP) features and launch of the new trainer module. This seminar will be of value to anyone involved in the management or operation of live entertainment venues / performances and trainers supplying to the industry.

12.15 - 13.00  Seminar room   B   Working At Height - 'Whose life is it anyway?’  

Chris Higgs and guest panel members including David Anderson and Frank Partington or Bob Deakin from AAP discuss who decides the level of acceptable risk when working at height? Who is responsible for whom? What happens when it all goes wrong? This topical debate covering updates to working at height regulations will be of particular interest to all technicians working in the theatre and who have to rig or operate equipment at height.

12.30 - 13.00  Seminar room   A   What Is Skillscene ?
"Skillscene: When are you going to get a proper job?" Bryan Raven explains Skillscene, the forum for theatrical & backstage training; how they are working to promote more training & accreditation for the industry without re-inventing the wheel. This seminar is for those in education and entertainment management sectors.

13.00 - 13.45  Seminar room   B   BS7909 & BS7671 Exposed
James Eade and Mark Coles. Mark Coles is responsible for the IET's standards and compliance department, sitting on many of the UK committees and representing UK interests at a European and International level. Following short presentations by both Eade and Coles on the application of BS 7671 and BS 7909 they will host a Q&A session in which delegates are invited to ask any questions relating to temporary or permanent electrical systems. It is a rare and unique opportunity to question those who wrote the standards and gain definitive answers on all things electrical, ranging from the application of Standards in practice, practical issues surrounding temporary systems or hardware, testing or certification for example. Not to be missed... This seminar will be for anyone involved with the design, planning, rigging or maintenance of temporary electrical installations for special events and touring live entertainment performances.

14.00 - 14.45  Seminar room   B   Lighting with LED & Tungsten
Adam Bennette will be talking about mixing old and new lighting design techniques. An industry technical expert reveals the possibilities and the consequences. This seminar will be interesting for everyone involved with, or interested in lighting design.

14.15 - 15.00  Seminar room  A  The Right Kit and The Real Kit
David Edelstein, Simon Harper, Andy Hayles, Chris Higgs and Sarah Rushton Read will be discussing ‘fighting forgery and specifying for success’: specifying equipment, avoiding forgeries, the role of the consultant and the health and safety implications. Discussion covering the process of specifying equipment for a client, the role of the consultant in ensuring that copied equipment and designs are not supplied, the health and safety aspects of using second quality equipment and the way that the industry is being made aware that copies are in general circulation. This session will be of interest to consultants, specifiers, project managers, health & safety specialists, venue managers, technical managers and system integrators.

15.00 - 16.00  Seminar room   B   A master and his art: lighting designer Mick Hughes
Mick Hughes is a Fellow of the ALD and has a lighting design career that stretches back 50 years. In this session he will talk about his career, productions, working collaborations and approach to lighting design and how it has changed over the years. This is an unmissable opportunity for anyone interested in lighting design.

15.15 - 16.00  Seminar room   A   Entertaining Sustainability
Tim Atkinson, Technical Director of :entertaining sustainability distills the fundamental units of sustainability into theatre-friendly terms. ‘The parcanhour, and other units of theatrical sustainability….’ Whether you’re Front of House, Backstage or neither, this informal seminar should familiarise you with which bits matter, how to measure them, and what that looks like in real life. This seminar will be interesting for anyone involved with the design, planning, management or operation of live entertainment venues.

16.00 - 16.45  Seminar room   B   Modern practices for collaboration between designers and technical/production
Mat Lawrence has been managing the process of realising designers’ visions for 18 years with the last 4 years spent working as Props Master for Opera Australia in Sydney. Mat started his career in the UK and since leaving Opera Australia in 2012 has co-founded a company working internationally with producing theatres and designers to better understand how the global theatre industry is currently working and to develop tools designed specifically to improve the process of collaboration, communication and access to information for the creative and production teams. In this informal session he will talk about the difficulties and pleasures of working internationally for both main stage and touring productions, the failures and successes of communication practices when working with designers and production teams on different continents and the good and bad practices theatres around the world are using to manage production teams and their communication with designers. This session will be interesting for anyone involved with design, planning, management or creation of live entertainment.

Triple E Presents 'Specifying for Success' Seminar at ABTT 2013

Entertainment engineering expert Triple E is inviting ABTT attendees to a brand new live discussion entitled 'The Right Kit and the Real Kit: Fighting Forgery and Specifying for Success' on Thursday 13 June, 2:15 - 3pm, Seminar Room A.

Triple E's Managing Director David Edelstein - who founded the company in 1984 to supply the entertainment industry with mechanical products to aid the assembly and construction of stage scenery - is chairing the debate alongside prominent theatre design consultant Andy Hayles from Charcoalblue, arts and capital projects consultant Simon Harper, rigging expert Chris Higgs, and industry PR Sarah Rushton-Read of The Fifth Estate Ltd.

All five of the industry experts will speak at the event, highlighting their own experiences of either specifying the right equipment for projects, and / or the ongoing fight against counterfeit goods and how it is and will continue to affect the industry.

"As a company with a strong brand and equipment being used widely around the world, the possibility of having parts or complete systems copied is worrying," says David Edelstein. "Bringing the problem into the open so that consultants and end users are aware of the potential problems that acquiring copied and untested equipment into their building is the objective of this discussion. The panel all have different takes on this area from not getting what was specified to the real dangers of using untested rigging equipment."

Chris Higgs adds: "The issue of counterfeiting in my world is very real. Many people aren't aware that lifting equipment and PPE used in Europe must satisfy certain requirements. There have been instances of counterfeit equipment being bought online which adds another dimension to the issue. If some simple checks are made and we don't completely rely on sourcing gear via the internet we can reduce the risks significantly. We all want cheap trainers and probably don't care where they come from, but fake karabiners or shackles is a completely different proposition."

Triple E will also be on Stand 138, Orange Hall during ABTT to exhibit its new rearfold accessory, the TDRIVE motor for Unibeam and Unitrack, the SDRIVE (showing for the first time at ABTT), the 'Marvin' multi-motor controller, and its simple plug and play Wireless TracDrive unit, which attaches to the XLR socket on all Triple E motors and enables cable-free operation.

A Dialogue With The ABTT

For the benefit of its members and potential members, the ABTT has scheduled a special HOW CAN WE HELP YOU? session, as part of the revitalised Seminar Programme at this year’s ABTT Theatre Show, being held at London’s The Old Truman Brewery next week, Wednesday 12 – Thursday 13 June.

Designed to give the organisation a direct platform with the people it represents, Robin Townley, the ABTT’s Associate Executive Officer, will outline current plans and ambitions, as well as host ‘Questions & Answers’, so allowing for members to be able to raise any issues relevant to them and offer suggestions for the general good that the organisation might act upon.

This half hour session on the Thursday is part of the Association’s plans to increase its dialogue with the membership, giving a louder voice to technicians at the heart of the industry.

The seminar is complemented by a number of sessions being presented by the ABTT, including the launch of TECHNICAL STANDARDS FOR PLACES OF ENTERTAINMENT 2013, a new edition updated for the first time in five years (Wednesday), followed by REVIEW OF THE NEW TECHNICAL STANDARDS (Thursday), where experts will be on hand to guide visitors through the format and layout of the new book.

In the ARE YOU COMPETENT? CAN YOU PROVE IT? session, the ABTT will once again present its PLASA Focus seminar (Wednesday), looking at competence and how it relates to training and assessment, whilst two sessions on BS7909 & BS7671 (Wednesday & Thursday), will focus on the practical information technicians require for Temporary Electrical Systems in the presentation of live performance.

Further seminars include KEEPING YOURSELF COVERED hosted by the ABTT’s insurance partners Jelf Insurance (Wednesday), UPDATES TO THE LICENSING ACT FOR SMALLER VENUES, covering the proposed changes to the Entertainment License this September (Wednesday) and BEING COMPLIANT: ARE YOU PUTTING YOUR RISK ASSESSMENTS INTO PRACTICE OR INTO A DRAWER? with ABTT Safety Committee Chairman Michael Anderson (Wednesday).

Finally, a topical debate covering updates to the working at height regulations will be discussed during WORKING AT HEIGHT (Thursday) and the latest features of the ABTT’s TECHNICAL ACCESS PASSPORT will be revealed, alongside a new trainer module (Thursday).

Full information can be found at: www.abtttheatreshow.org.uk/seminars and all seminar session are free to attend for registered visitors and exhibitors.

ABTT Launches New Technical Standards

The ASSOCIATION OF BRITISH THEATRE TECHNICIANS will take the opportunity of its annual Theatre Show next week, to launch the first edition for five years of the seminal publication, TECHNICAL STANDARDS FOR PLACES OF ENTERTAINMENT, known throughout the industry as the ‘Yellow Book’.

First published April 2001, this edition which includes a new Section N ‘The Production’ – covering issues previously contained in the Model National Standard Conditions for Places of Entertainment – has been developed by a Standing Committee chaired by Rob Weaver and drawn from members of the industry and responsible authorities, namely, the Association of British Theatre Technicians, the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health, the District Surveyors Association and the Institute of Licensing together with representatives from other organisations.

Edited by David Adams, the ABTT’s Safety Advisor, this major update of Technical Standards aims to provide simple guidance in an easy format, setting out the physical standards for buildings, their equipment and the good management of the premises, so as to provide for the safety of the performers, staff and the public in premises used for entertainment.

Its intention is to help licensees, technical managers and enforcers to understand the requirements and needs of places of entertainment and although primarily intended to apply to indoor venues, much of the advice will also apply to outdoor events, as all locations used for entertainment can present special hazards.

The book aims to cover all areas and, where there might seem to be a conflict of interpretation between different legal requirements or between guidance in support of legislation, to offer a good practice solution. This guidance applies to existing premises, as well as to new, in both the amateur and professional industries.

Technical Standards is not intended as a detailed analysis of the law. However, its recommended Conditions and Recommendations may be enforced by various authorities under specific legislation or, in some cases, as a result of conditions laid down in accordance with the Licensing Act 2003.

David T. Staples, Principal, Theatre Projects Consultants, who will launch the book as part of the ABTT Theatre Show 2013 (12-13 June) at London’s Old Truman Brewery, commented, “The Yellow Book is invaluable when working overseas in countries where their own regulations for theatre buildings are either underdeveloped or obsolete - a frequent occurrence. I have met in several countries with fire officers or building control teams and have used the Technical Standards to convince them the building will be safe.”

He continued, “The new Technical Standards will be longer than any previous regulations (which is not good) and will need some time to assimilate but will hopefully be a force for good!”

Ambassador Theatre Group Head of Technical Services, John Young, who will also be present at the launch, remarked, “The ABTT’s Technical Standards should be the ‘go-to’ bible for venue owners and operators. My remit involves capital projects, refurbishments and technical aspects of new builds along with safety, fire and production audits of ATG’s estate – 40 venues and 4 offices. The essential information is readily accessible and largely theatre-specific – exactly what I need for quick reference on a venue audit.”

“For a body of work like this – updates are essential and inevitable to accommodate changes in legislation – and are most welcome. The publication already lends itself to the development of best practice rather than getting bogged down in legislation – a refreshing safety culture. The new ‘Section N’ will be invaluable in developing our cohort of responsible persons – the venue managers.”

Copies of Technical Standards for Places of Entertainment will be available to purchase on Wednesday 12 June & Thursday 13 June, during the ABTT Theatre Show, at a discounted rate to all registered visitors to the show: www.abtttheatreshow.org.uk

Get more out of your Technical Access Passport at the ABTT Show 2013

A Technical Access Passport (TAP) provides technicians with a wealth of benefits already, and now there are new exciting features to use!

All members of the ABTT  have been issued with a TAP account to take advantage of this individual pass holder’s scheme, designed for technicians to demonstrate their qualifications and skills in the live entertainment industry.

Come and join us for a 30 minute seminar at the ABTT 2013 Theatre Show on Thursday 13th June at 11:45 in seminar room B, where the creators of the TAP scheme, Chris Paul, director of trackingThis, Tom Mannings, Head of Technical for the ENO and Director for Theatrical Trading Ltd (ABTT), will be talking about the system's latest features and the new trainer module.

This seminar is ideal for anyone involved in the operation or management of live entertainment venues/performances and trainers supplying to the industry.

TAP is a scheme jointly developed by the ABTT and trackingThis Ltd to make technician's health and safety related records such as training certificates, more accessible. If you have specific questions about TAP, and you would like to find out how to upload your training records or how and when you can use your card, visit us on Stand 4 where we will be holding a series of training sessions on TAP and the trackingThis asset management system.

See you at the ABTT show, Stand 4, and don't forget the seminar on Thursday 13th at 11:45.

www.tapthis.co.uk

Triple E Demos Smooth Track Solutions at ABTT 2013

Theatre track systems experts at Triple E are inviting visitors to ABTT onto their stand to get hands on with the company's array of motorised solutions for curtains (Stand 138, Orange Hall).

Triple E will be demoing its new rearfold accessory and the TDRIVE motor both for Unibeam and Unitrack, the SDRIVE will be shown for the first time at ABTT, the multi-motor controller (pictured right, nicknamed Marvin as a nod to the Hitchhiker robot - "Here I am, brain the size of a planet, and all they ask me to do is open the curtains") and its simple plug and play Wireless TracDrive unit, which attaches to the XLR socket on all Triple E motors and enables cable-free operation.

The company - which has a 30-year history of inventing engineering solutions for the entertainment industry - will also be debuting its totally new website showcasing its product lines and enabling customers and distributors to obtain instant quotes for any of the company's six main track systems including U shapes and perimeter tracks.

L-R: Rearfold carrier, TDRIVE, and SDRIVE (not to scale); Below: Marvin Multi-Motor Controller

"We're inviting theatre technicians to come and see how Triple E's products can revolutionise their venues, enabling silent, smooth, and simple operation," says Triple E's Managing Director David Edelstein. "For example, our SDRIVE system is an incredibly compact and simple to use motor intended for curtains weighing up to 100kgs and is ideal for drama studios. It's easy to specify and easy to install, and is designed to motorise both straight and curved systems.

"Triple E realises that many theatres require additional control positions or even the ability to operate anywhere in a building or auditorium so our simple new 'plug and play' wireless system with a hand held pocket size remote is the answer. It saves time and money on routing cables and literally takes a couple of minutes to connect and set up. This new addition to our control options has been very successful, most recently for the education sector in school auditoriums."

The TDRIVE functions in the same way as the SDRIVE but is more powerful, and incorporates the control system into the motor housing making it a plug and play piece of kit making installation very simple. "The SDRIVE and TDRIVE motors can be linked to 'Marvin' a very simple and inexpensive way to have multi-motor control in a permanent installation or for a show," explains Edelstein.

The new rearfold accessory for two and four wheel carriers, used on Unitrack and Unibeam, enables stage curtains to travel flat and stack off stage rather than gather and travel as they move from the centre. The new rearfold designed for the moulded carrier launched last year is mechanically simpler, more efficient, and less expensive than the chain link system it replaces.

"Our new website will make the process of producing an inventory and quote for our systems really simple and fast, it even includes the delivery costs - come and play with it on our stand!

"We're sure these products are going to be a hit at ABTT, so come and be a part of it," continues Edelstein. "However, I'd like to highlight the fact that we're not entering the ABTT awards this year as we are sponsoring and manufacturing them!"

The Triple E team will be on stand 138, Orange Hall, Old Truman Brewery, Brick Lane, London, E1 6QL, 12th and 13th June.

www.3-eee.com

Audience Systems bring new products to ABTT 2013

Oscar

UK seating specialists Audience Systems are gearing up to bring some new products to the ABTT Theatre Show 2013 in London on 12^th -13^th June.

Having taken a few years away from the show, Audience Systems is pleased to return, with a stand downstairs in the blue hall.

Products on show will include:

Oscar  – An auditorium chair for the purist, Oscar is designed by Audience Systems’ new partner Forum Seating. Ideal for concert and cultural environments, Oscar’s classic elegance masks its strength. It is also available with a folding writing tablet, providing a superb addition to Audience Systems’ existing range of lecture theatres and conference seating.

Scholar

·        Scholar  – Audience Systems’ versatile new lecture theatre seating product offers flexible, comfortable and demonstrably durable seating for universities and conference centres.

·       Recital  –  a unique product, Recital is a true auditorium chair which is suitable for use on retractable platforms.

Recital

 Visit Audience Systems on stand 39 or call us in advance to make an appointment.

www.audiencesystems.com

Doughty Engineering presents a new way to present at ABTT 2013

Visitors to the Doughty Engineering, stand 130 in the Orange Hall, at this year’s ABTT show will be introduced to a product that is set to take the conference and events industries by storm.

The Doughty motorised lectern is fully DDA (Disability Discrimination Act) compliant and will be in operation on the stand. Mark Chorley, design engineer at Doughty Engineering said “We believe this lectern is unique – it will certainly be a real crowd-pleaser! It’s been developed on the basis that not everyone who has to speak in front of a crowd is the same height, while enabling those who are unable to stand for long periods, or are wheelchair bound, to give their presentations while sitting down. All will be revealed at ABTT!”

Riggers who visit Doughty’s stand will be able to discuss their specific needs with a member of the team while also viewing the new range of stronger truss adaptors for theatre rigs and outdoor events. Made from solid, high tensile aluminium the new adaptors fit all major brands of triangular and square truss, enabling it to be lifted into place safely and securely.

Doughty Engineering, Stand 130 Orange Hall

www.doughty-engineering.co.uk

Unusual Rigging announces new service offering at ABTT 2013

Unusual Rigging is broadening its service offering in the installation and capital projects sector with a new range of automation systems, which will be seen for the first time in the UK at this year’s ABTT show. 
 

The development gives the UK market another option in terms of power flying, says Mark Priestley, Capital Projects Manager at Unusual: “The system, which has a real pedigree in control technology, can be tailored to suit the specific requirements of each client and each installation, bringing the Unusual magic to even more elements of theatre engineering.” 

Talk to Unusual at ABTT on stand 34, Blue Hall to find out more!

 www.unusual.co.uk

MilTec 'made in Britain' at the ABTT 2013 Theatre Show

MilTec (UK) Ltd will be showing a range of audio and lighting products bearing the proud label “Made in Britain”.

The successful TP speaker range has now been replaced by the Blakite range, consisting of three mid/tops and four subs.  The new range is being built in the UK using high quality materials with custom drivers supplied by Fane.  The new range offers increased build quality, efficiency, power handling, frequency range and a marked improvement in sound quality.

Mini-Map

On the lighting side, the Mini-Map LED screen will be the first MilTec lighting product to be made in the UK.  The Mini-Map is a miniature LED screen with 36 tricolour pixels and in a break with convention is controlled via DMX512.  It measures just 155mm square and is designed to be mounted individually or in clusters to provide stunning video and graphic effects.  The Mini-Map is fitted with PowerCon connectors and 5-pin XLRs for daisy chaining power and DMX.  A single hook clamp or coupler is attached via the M10 mounting point.  An installation version is also available.

EPW2 Effect Wash Profile LED

Also on show will be the EPW2 and EPW3 moving heads.  These versatile luminaires can generate simultaneous spot and wash beams, allowing the lighting designer to create unique effects.  Using powerful LED engines up to 200W, these units are suitable for use in medium to large venues.  The wash LEDs can also be pixelmapped, giving 3 functions in one luminaire.

In addition to these products you will be able to see a selection of lightweight amplifiers and signal processing products also designed by MilTec along with the highly successful LED Batten2.

Please visit us on Stand 60 in the Blue Hall.

www.miltec.org.uk

BSL at ABTT 2013: 'Creating Access through Signs and Vision'

Are you interested in Technical Theatre but don't know much about it?  Want to find out more?  Then come and join us at the Association of British Theatre Technicians Theatre Show 2013.

This is an annual show with hundreds of stalls, exhibitions and demonstrations of the latest in technical theatre equipment and lots of information.  You can also find out about how you can train to work in technical theatre!

Come and visit us at our Technical Theatre BSL stand - number 25 in the Market Place -  and find out more about our new BSL Glossary of technical theatre jargon.

And why not take part in an informal seminar on Wednesday 12th at 4.15 p.m.?  The subject is-

'Deaf Theatre Technicians: Creating Access through Signs and Vision'

The seminar will be presented in BSL and English and will be interpreted. You can register here. It's free.

We will have two BSL Interpreters based at our stand each day.  We will try our best to provide as much access as we can to some of the many stalls and exhibitions - depending on how many deaf visitors come to the Show.

Look forward to seeing you there!

http://techtheatrebsl.wordpress.com/