The Theatrical Guild shares the sad loss of our Honorary President : Phyllida Law – who had been involved with the charity for many years, as a Trustee, Vice Chair and in later years as our Honorary President. She will be greatly missed, and we express our sincere condolences to her daughters Emma and Sophie,…
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We warmly welcome Lucie Warren (ASM) as a new TTG Ambassador from August 2026. We first met Lucie as a Trustee with The Stage Management Association – and Lucie was also the 1st recipient of TTG’s “Caldicot Stage Management Training Bursary” in 2025. As a Professional ASM, Lucie has always demonstrated leadership qualities, dynamic energy,…
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In partnership with the PLEASANCE THEATRE & PLAYWELL “The Theatrical Guild are proud to partner with the Pleasance Theatre Trust and PlayWell to deliver a unique Welfare Programme at the Edinburgh Fringe 2026, to support over 300 Pleasance staff and volunteers in Backstage and Front of House roles, during the exciting but often demanding Festival…
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Feeling safe and supported in a positive community can make a real difference to our mental health and wellbeing. So, if you need support, consider speaking to your workplace Mental Health First Aider who will assess your needs and be there to talk to you in confidence. TTG recognises the need for, and importance of,…
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We warmly welcome Lizzie Cooper (Deputy Stage Manager) as a new TTG Trustee from August 2026 Having benefitted from various schemes and grants in her early career, Lizzie wanted to get involved with the charity, to directly support those in need of assistance – to nurture and sustain their careers in the creative industries. Whilst…
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TTG are inviting you to join us for our 2026 Fundraising Challenge to “Climb Over the O2” This special event will raise vital funds for our Beneficiary Grants Programme in 2026/27 and will support many Backstage & Front of House theatre staff through times of hardship. Details of the event are as follows ; Step 1 :…
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Wednesday 3 – Thursday 4 June 2026 | Alexandra Palace, London The UK’s essential exhibition for theatre technicians, suppliers and live performance professionals. The ABTT Theatre Show brings together the specialist companies, expertise and networks that power theatre, performance and live events — all under one roof. Discover new products, strengthen relationships, attend free seminars, workshops…
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“Mid-Career Training Programme” Training funds are available to anyone working in a Backstage or Front of House Theatre role (i) who has completed a min of 3 years professional employment & (ii) where personal hardship may restrict your access to training. Training applications are specifically for the advancement of your theatre career and to provide…
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Acting for Others has made the decision to reschedule the West End Flea Market from Sat 16th May, due to events taking place in Central London – and apologise for any inconvenience caused. However, we are delighted to confirm that the West End Flea Market 2026 will now take place on Saturday 25th July at The Actors Church…
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The Illustrator Mark Manley presented Luke Thompson with a special portrait drawing, which was inspired by the show’s publicity photograph, taken by Lee Malone. Mark also donated 5 x Framed Limited Edition Prints – all signed by Luke Thompson to The Theatrical Guild, to support our fundraising at “An Audience with Luke Thompson” on 29th…
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What a resounding success this show was, on 29th March at Leicester Square Theatre – where the theatre was a packed with supporters, super-fans and well-wishers – the atmosphere was buzzing ! Interviewed by Hugh Sachs (Actor & TTG Trustee), Luke Thompson (Actor) shared some wonderful stories about his upbringing in France, his entry into…
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Special thanks goes to our friends and colleagues at LST for looking after us so brilliantly on Sunday 29th March for our special event “An Audience with Luke Thompson” This is the 4th time TTG has hired the venue for our charitable fundraisers and their Backstage, Front of House, security and show organisers are always…
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We are thrilled to announce that our next event is now Sold Out – and there is a Waiting List being operated at Leicester Square Theatre – should there be any returns nearer the time. In the meantime – Luke Thompson & Hugh Sachs – both ‘Bridgerton’ Actors – have been busy signing show posters…
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“Congratulations” to all the Winners – from your friends and colleagues at The Theatrical Guild – especially to those working in the technical professions. Best Lighting Jon Clark (Evita) Best Wigs, Hair and Make Up Campbell Young Associates (Paddington the Musical) Best Costume Design Gabriella Slade & Tahra Zafar (Paddington the Musical) Best Sound Design…
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The Theatrical Guild is delighted to announce the latest event in its popular “An Audience With” series – an exclusive live conversation with Actor Luke Thompson – best known to global audiences for his role as Benedict Bridgerton, in Netflix’s smash-hit period drama Bridgerton. Sunday 29th March at 2pm at Leicester Square Theatre, 6 Leicester…
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Mid Career Training Opportunities – with new 2026 dates announced with the SMA Generously funded by Jonathan Caldicot and designed to support members of the Stage Management community with their continuing professional development, The Theatrical Guild works in partnership with the SMA, to offer hardship grant funding for a range of up-skills training opportunities. Please…
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Thank you to everyone – Trustees, staff and volunteers – at Acting for Others for producing some incredible fundraising activities in 2025 and for their generous ongoing support of The Theatrical Guild. We encourage you to keep an eye on their website & social media for upcoming events – join in the fun – and…
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“TTG had a busy and positive year in 2025, helping over 226 beneficiaries with a range of support services, including ; financial grants, counselling, welfare advice and mid-career training. At the ABTT Theatre Show in June’25, TTG launched our new training initiative “The Caldicot Stage Management Training Bursary”. This is generously funded by Jonathan Caldicot…
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At the ABTT Christmas Party on 5th December 2025, David Staples (Editor of Modern Theatres 1950-2020) awarded an ABTT Fellowship to Robin Townley, who was recognised for his exceptional and wide-ranging contribution to technical theatre. So, “congratulations” from all at TTG. A long-standing advocate for best practice and professional standards, Robin’s work has helped shape…
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Excitement is mounting for our special event on Sunday 16th November at Leicester Square Theatre. Charlie came to visit TTG on 11th November, to sign some show posters, and we are so grateful for his genuine interest in, and kind support of our charity supporting Backstage & FoH staff. There are only a few tickets…
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“Twelfth Night” : Royal Shakespeare Company : Stratford Upon Avon 2024 & London transfer 2025 ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ Puwanarajah has mined the text to find richer depths and alternative perspectives to its lines and sentiments. The result is a fresh, funny and surprising production, by turns wistfully melancholic and hopelessly romanticThe Stage ★ ★…
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If you are working in a Backstage or Front of House theatre role and you are struggling with your mental health – TTG can quickly get you into a Counselling Programme, with our dedicated in-house practitioner. We understand that it can take great courage to ask for help but we are here to support you…
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Sunday 16th November 2pm : Leicester Square Theatre, 6 Leicester Place, London WC2 Tickets range from £15 – £75 (booking fees apply) and can be purchased from Leicester Square Theatre Box Office on 020 7734 2222 or via leicestersquaretheatre.com This one-off ‘in conversation’ event will be hosted by acclaimed Actress, Liz Robertson, with the discussion led by…
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After 10 years as CEO of the Association of British Theatre Technicians, Robin Townley stepped down in June 2024. Robin served a founding member of the ABTT Training and Education Committee, he was a Trustee of the ABTT and was its Honorary Secretary. He is also a Member of the Standing Committee for Technical Standards for…
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Join The Theatrical Guild for a rare and intimate afternoon with one of the UK’s most exciting musical theatre talents—Charlie Stemp – on Sunday 16th November at Leicester Square Theatre. Tickets from £15 (+ booking fee) via www.leicestersquaretheatre.com This exclusive, one-off event will be hosted by acclaimed Musical Theatre Actress Liz Robertson, with the conversation…
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The founder of the London theatre school which launched countless entertainment careers – has died aged 85 Sylvia had always been a great supporter of The Theatrical Guild and everyone at the charity extends their sincere condolences to her family, friends and colleagues at this sad time. In a statement, her daughters Alison and Frances…
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Generously supported by The Royal Theatrical Fund and The Actors Benevolent Fund, TTG’s beneficiaries and wider community are warmly invited to join their Coffee and Choir Mornings at St Paul’s Church, Covent Garden which run fortnightly, on Wednesdays, from 10:30am to 12:30pm. The choir have performed at Denville Hall, the residential home for all members…
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Kindly funded by Jonathan Caldicot and designed to support members of the Stage Management community with their continuing professional development, The Theatrical Guild will work in partnership with The Stage Management Association to offer hardship grant funding for a range of up-skills training opportunities. Please contact the SMA for course details & eligibility criteria (T&Cs…
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On 22nd May 2025 The Society of London Theatre (SOLT) and UK Theatre published a landmark report revealing a sector delivering enormous value to the UK’s economy, communities, and global reputation – but now facing critical risks due to rising costs and long-term underinvestment – despite record audience numbers. The full report is available via : https://uktheatre.org/british-theatre-a-global-success-story-under-threat/
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The 2025 ABTT Theatre Show on 4th & 5th June is always a great opportunity to reconnect with our industry colleagues, theatre technicians & friends – to share ideas and to develop future collaborations. With a range of informative seminars, and professional tech demonstrations – it’s a great event. Tickets are free – and you…
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Huge congratulations to the whole team at Soho Theatre Walthamstow, on the recent opening of London’s newest theatre. Established as “The Granada” in the 1930’s, this stunning renovation is now a 1,000 seat theatre and comedy venue, which is very exciting news for East London. TTG are sending our best wishes to anyone working Backstage…
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On Thursday 10th April Acting for Others held a star-studded award ceremony celebrating the wonderful theatre community who tirelessly raise funds to support the work of the Member Charities. A fun-filled afternoon, full of joy, laughter, sparkles and good times ! The Theatrical Guild would like to say a huge “thank you” to everyone who donates their…
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Explore the widest range of workplace-delivered placement, training and apprenticeship opportunities of any organisation in the creative arts. Supported by UK Government investment, the new National Theatre Skills Centre offers resources, training and professional development, with opportunities available nationwide from entry-level to mid-career. Under the guidance of world-leading experts, the NT’s programmes will help you…
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On Saturday 29th March Claire Carrie and Liz Robertson (Co-Chairs) hosted the charity’s annual Tea Party and they welcomed our Board of Trustees, Members of our Advisory Board and some special guests. With a shot of Spring sunshine to lift everyone’s spirits – a lovely afternoon was spent reflecting on our collective achievements over the…
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The ABTT Theatre Show draws exhibitors and visitors from all over the world whether they be interested in lighting, audio visual, scenography, rigging, set construction, sound, costume, seating, staging, wigs, make-up, pyrotechnics or anything else employed in a performance. It provides an essential meeting point for our community – supporting our suppliers, service providers and…
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Photographs by Laura McCluskey, Max Miechowski and Callum Su 4.30pm at the National Theatre. In the hours before the audience take their seats, the stage becomes a hive of activity in preparation for the next performance. For technical teams working behind the scenes, this time is essential to ensure that everything is ready for a…
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At Christmastime we would like to say a “special thanks” to Liz Robertson (Musical Theatre Actress) – for her outstanding TTG fundraising achievements in 2024, to Jan Carey (Actress) – for her ongoing hard work, care & commitment to TTG, and to Iain Mackintosh (Producer, Theatre Space Designer & Author) – for helping to raise…
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TTG would like to take this opportunity to thank all the staff at ABTT and their Members for their generous support of the charity’s ongoing work. See the ABTT website for information on becoming a Member, professional resources, jobs, training, industry initiatives, events and social activities. www.abtt.org.uk Diary Date : ABTT Theatre Show 2025 is…
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This special TTG event took place at Leicester Square Theatre on 17th November 2024 to great acclaim. The event was a complete sell-out and was an absolute triumph for the charity !! Feedback from Deborah Smith ; “Thank you to TTG for organising “An Audience with James Norton”. What a lovely way to spend a…
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Dame Maggie Smith, who has died at the age of 89, brought an incredible range of expression to her roles, winning high praise from Directors and fellow Actors alike. In a profession notorious for its uncertainties, her career was notable for its longevity. She made her acting debut in 1952 and was still working six…
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What’s-On-Stage Award Winner James Norton is set to take part in the latest instalment of TTG’s “An Audience With” series on Sunday 17 November 2pm at Leicester Square Theatre, to raise funds for the charity and their support of Backstage and Front of House theatre staff across the UK. Tickets on sale from 10am on…
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TTG’s Board would like to give a warm welcome to two new Trustees, who will both be a great asset to the charity, given their extensive professional experience in theatre, business and finance – and we thank them for their interest and kind support. RACHEL KAVANAUGH Rachel is an award winning and highly experienced Freelance…
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“After 4 years as Chair, and 1 year as Co-Chair with Claire Carrie, I am stepping down from this particular role, to make way for the next generation of Trustees, but I have been invited to take on the role of TTG President for the coming year, which I am delighted to accept. When I…
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Following a recent visit to Cornwall’s beautiful Minnack Theatre – created by the truly inspiring Rowena Cade – TTG’s General Manager, Amanda, spoke to some of the technicians and front of house staff who keep this special venue going throughout the playing season – come rain or shine ! So, TTG would just like to…
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2nd June 2024 at Leicester Square Theatre, London What a fantastic afternoon we all had listening to the life, career history and politics of the celebrated actor, Brian Cox. Interviewed by his son, Alan Cox and TTG’s President, Liz Robertson – is was a lively debate about many theatre related subjects. This is the first…
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TTG are delighted to be chosen as the charity partner at this years ABTT Theatre Show taking place at Alexandra Palace on 5th & 6th June. You’ll find TTG at Stand No D62 – so, do come a say hello ! The ABTT Theatre Show draws exhibitors and visitors from all over the world whether…
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TTG’s President – Liz Robertson – had a “Big Birthday” on 4th May 2024 and to celebrate, she set herself the daredevil challenge of doing a Tandem Skydive in Zanzibar ! As her photograph shows – she absolutely loved her exhilarating flight and the thrilling experience. Liz kindly did this challenge as a fundraising event,…
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What a fabulous, fun-filled day, organised by Acting for Others, to raise essential funds for the 14 theatrical charities within their group. Based at The Actors Church in Covent Garden, the theatre community came out on Saturday 18th May to support this wonderful event & spirits were high. So, “congratulations” to all who helped make…
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On Thursday 11th April Acting for Others held a star-studded award ceremony celebrating the wonderful theatre community who tirelessly raise funds to support the work of the Member Charities. A fun-filled afternoon, full of joy, laughter, sparkles and good times ! The Theatrical Guild would like to say a huge “thank you” to everyone who…
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The Theatrical Guild would like to congratulate all the worthy winners at the is special industry event – but particularly those who work in Backstage Theatre Professions, as follows ; ADAM FISHER : Award for Best Sound Design for “Sunset Boulevard” : Savoy Theatre JACK KNOWLES : Award for Best Lighting Design for “Sunset Boulevard”…
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Sunday 2nd June : 3pm at Leicester Square Theatre, London TTG has recently launch star-studded ‘An Audience With’ series as part of the charity’s 2024 fundraising initiatives – with Brian Cox, James Norton, Golda Rosheuvel & Marianne Elliot OBE amongst the stars confirmed to headline a series of intimate theatre industry conversations in 2024 Tickets…
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I first came across The Theatrical Guild at the 2023 West End Flea Market, where I struck up a conversation with their General Manager, Amanda Parker – who was selling theatre posters at the time, to raise money for Acting for Others. I mentioned that I was previously a show promoter with a passion for…
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Over the past 30 years I have been thoroughly immersed in juggling my acting career and motherhood – and in recent years, I was also given the opportunity to teach Acting to BA students at the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama – all of which I have found very rewarding. Luckily, my new…
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Born 4 September 1945 – Died 23 October 2023 As a huge employer of Backstage and Front of House Theatre staff, TTG pays our respects to a Giant of the British Theatre Industry. And our heartfelt condolences goes to Jenny Seagrove, his family, friends and colleagues, at this very sad time. Quote : Amanda Parker…
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I trained at Mountview on the Postgraduate Acting Course, and my first professional job was weekly rep at Sidmouth, working with Charles Vance, where I was lucky enough to work across several departments, including Stage Management, Lighting and Sound. I have subsequently kept Stage Management an integral part of my career, as many of my…
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Andrew trained at the London Academy of Music & Dramatic Art (LAMDA,) graduating in 2007 having specialised in Lighting Design and Production Electrics. After graduating Andrew entered the freelance world, working predominantly as a Lighting Programmer. He has worked in London’s West End, on Broadway, extensively across North America, Europe, the Middle East, Australasia and…
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Join our Endorphin Challenge by getting physically active or our Mindfulness Challenge by getting creative. The event can be anything that gets you moving or makes you smile. And this ABTT wellbeing initiative will raise funds for the three charities supporting Technical Theatre staff – The Theatrical Guild, Bacup Tech and Stage Hand. So, we…
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“Congratulations” to our Trustee Anna Dack, who successfully completed the Rotterdam Marathon, raising over £1,000 for TTG. “Running my first marathon on behalf of the TTG was an experience I won’t ever forget. Despite my initial nerves heading into the race, a grey and gusty morning in Rotterdam was made so much brighter by streets lined by rowdy…
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On Saturday 25th March, TTG got together for a long overdue social event – to “meet and greet” new members of the team and reignite special friendships, after a long period of separation. We were joined by our Ambassadors Golda Rosheuvel and Marianne Elliott, President Liz Robertson, Vice Presidents Jo McCallum and Jane How, along…
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