ABTT's new co-chairs: David Evans (left) and Mig Burgess Walsh
UK - The Association of British Theatre Technicians (ABTT) has announced Mig Burgess Walsh and David Evans as co-chairs. The duo will succeed Richard Bunn, senior consultant at Arup, who navigated the ABTT during the pandemic period.
Walsh is lighting tutor at the Guildford School of Acting, chair of AAPTLE Wellbeing Group, and an active freelancer. Evans is the head of production at National Theatre Wales, former chair of the Production Managers’ Forum and a founding production manager and board member of the Lagos Theatre Festival.
The ABTT says: “The combination of Mig and David’s extensive background in the performing arts, encompassing teaching, touring, programming, production and venue management, alongside their ongoing commitment to improve our industry make them ideally-qualified to lead the ABTT’s council of management over the next two years.
“All at the ABTT would like to extend their heartfelt thanks, recognising Richard's hard work and commitment during very challenging times.”
Commenting on her role, Burgess Walsh says: “I am so pleased to begin this prestigious role with the ABTT. A role to which, quite frankly, I never thought I would ever be able to aspire given my mental health diagnosis. With David by my side as co-chair, I shall have tremendous support if and when I should need it. In fact, appointing co-chairs brings many inclusive and wellbeing advantages, we are each able to support one another, dividing the workload and bringing both our unique perspectives.”
Evans adds: “The ABTT is an organisation crucial to the backstage industry and I am very proud to have been associated with it both as a member and as a trustee. The decision to have a Co-Chair rather than a single Chair is evidence that the ABTT does not give advice but sets the example.
“Like Mig I am busy, I am head of production at National Theatre Wales, an ambitious national producing company, I am a board member of the Lagos Theatre Festival, I have many commitments including being a parent, and could not do this without Mig’s support, or indeed the support of Robin, Elysia and Stuart and all the Trustees."
Evans concludes: “Mig brings her lighting and educational skills and I bring years of Production Management, operations and international work as well as a deep commitment to making theatre sustainably. Between us we hope we can help the ABTT continue advising and supporting our membership and to continue its integral role making the industry more collaborative and supportive to all who work in it.”

Latest Issue. . .