RHIANNON WITT
LIGHTING & PRODUCTION TECHNICIAN
Stop Gap:
Lived Fiction
Role:
Followspot Operator
A little about what went on...
Stop Gap is an inclusive dance company, driven by the goal that diversity should not only be accepted, but embraced and celebrated. Lived Fiction was a workshop production by Stop Gap, where the production was in its early stages of the technical process.
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This offered a great experience to work alongside Lighting Designer Jackie Shemesh, and Associate Lighting Designer Joe Hornsby, in the creation of a followspot track to be redistributed for future performances. Watching creative choices being made in real time is a great way for me to develop my design skills!
The London Palladium
Role:
Production Technician & Followspot Operator
A little about what went on...
My experience at The London Palladium as a followspot operator and production technician has been eyeopening. I have worked on a variety of performances, each presenting unique technical requirements. This is a great understanding to have as I dive into industry where work will always bringing with it new challenges!
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Since joining the team as a casual in November 2022, I have been fortunate to work on events from podcasts, and live music one nighters, to the long running and renowned Pantomime at the Palladium, and Britains Got Talent install!
SLX Student Lighting Programme 2022/23
Role:
Lighting Programme Student
A little about what went on...
The SLX Student Lighting Programme was an opportunity I could not miss. After applying, I became 1 of 5 students selected for the class of 2022/23, to be a part of the next generation of technicians supported by the fantastic team at SLX.
The lighting programme has been a huge part of developing my confidence as a technician. I was given the opportunity to prepare LX kit for a tour, explore the SLX warehouse in Bristol and speak to numerous industry professionals during my time on the programme. These opportunities have supported in growing my technical skillsets, as well as confidence in valuable networking know how- which has already opened up doors for me professionally.
Moulin Rouge
Role:
Board Operator & Stage LX Dep
A little about what went on...
Working on Moulin Rouge as an LX Dep since the Summer of 2022 has been an invaluable part of my technical development.
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With a stage (and auditorium!) so elaborately lit, the skills in maintenance and problem solving I have built on have been significant, and made me a much more competent technician. I have become familiar with the basics of moving light maintenance, and hope to continue to develop my knowledge of this as I continue my work.
The Henley Festival
2022
Role:
Production Crew & Followspot Operator
A little about what went on...
The Henley Festival 2022 was my first experience of festival work, and what better way to start than the 40th Anniversary of the Henley Festival!
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As production crew I developed my skills in site maintenance, as well as in time pressured fit ups, get outs and installs throughout the festival. Working all hours of the day developed my stamina and ability to problem solve when resources were restricted.
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As followspot operator for talent such as Craig David, and Pete Tong, climbing up a 25m tower built my confidence in work at height as well as operating for large scale, high profile events.
The Company Presents
Role:
Production Crew
A little about what went on...
The Company Presents, lead by Mary Hamilton and John Harris has offered me opportunities to build on my production crew skillsets in areas such as stage building, event coordination and general technical support.
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In 2022, I was involved in both the Newbury Spring Festival and Charter House Leavers Ball. These events offered many new challenges as I began to work in new venues and sites, however the outcome was hugely rewarding as both were so well received!
The Theatre Royal Plymouth
Role:
Stage Technician & Followspot Operator
A little about what went on...
I began my first role working at The Theatre Royal Plymouth as a Stage Technician for Aladdin, the Pantomime during COVID 19. Whilst facing the usual challenges during technical rehearsals, the additional pressures of the safety and wellbeing of the cast, crew and audience meant that this was a very memorable experience. I valued the team we had created in this venue as we were still able to create a magical and safe experience for audiences over the festive season!
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Responsibilities as a stage technician from Aladdin, Waitress The Musical and Birmingham Royal Ballets Don Quixote were varied, yet shared the importance of safe, organised wing and stage space. These skills are valuable in all departments and event spaces.
Likewise, my first role as followspot operator on Mamma Mia The Musical challenged me to learn quickly, and efficiently while under pressure. This was a massive learning experience for me as I became accustomed to the high pressure environments that I will experience in my work.
