A Call Back to the Heart of Collaboration in Technical Theatre

10th September 2025

Sitting alongside legends of technical theatre, Richard Bullimore, Andrew Bruce and Howard Eaton, brilliantly chaired by Rob Halliday, I knew we were in for something special. What unfolded was more than a trip down memory lane; it was a powerful reminder of the principles that built our industry.

At the core was a simple truth: the best productions were forged through collaboration, connection, and time spent together in the same room.
It wasn’t nostalgia for a "golden age," but an honest look at how live production grew through relentless innovation, hard work, and—most importantly—teamwork. Yes, the industry has thankfully evolved: gone are the infamous four-day, 24-hour shifts fuelled by a few half-hour breaks in the local pub. Today, health, safety and welfare standards rightly ensure more appropriate working hours. Technology, too, has transformed what’s possible on stage.

But one vital practice has been lost: the face-to-face production meeting.

There is no email, Dropbox link, or Zoom call that can replace the clarity, efficiency, and trust that comes from gathering stakeholders at the venue, walking the space, and hashing out requirements in real time. That act not only solved problems faster and reduced costs—it built friendships, trust, and shared ownership.

As the panel reminded me when I casually referred to the “client”: “Ah, you see… we called them friends.”

If there’s one lesson we can take from those who shaped our industry, it’s this: Let’s bring back the art of meeting in person. Let’s embrace collaboration as the foundation of great productions. Let’s value people and connection as much as process and technology.
Because the shows will run smoother. The work will be sharper. And the bonds will be stronger.

Perhaps with a little less time in the pub…