The ABTT (Association of British Theatre Technicians) is an organisation for all things backstage, offering seminars, training, and health and safety guidance. Each year they hold an exhibition bringing suppliers and backstage workers together – and as part of this they hold the ABTT Awards, celebrating people and product in the theatre technician world.
This year, for the first time, there was an apprentice of the year category where WEBS apprentice Sarah Ray-Dobson, of National Theatre London props department, won the award. Sarah makes and refurbishes furniture to be used onstage, sometimes with additional features like collapsing when being dramatically thrown, or reinforced so it can be jumped (or danced) on.
WEBS Training offer Craig said: “It is fantastic to bring furniture making into the spotlight in theatre awards, especially when competing against all the other technical elements of theatre – but furniture is often integral to any stage production.
“I was genuinely happy to hear that Sarah had won – it was very well deserved. Throughout her course she has pushed herself both at WEBS and in the workplace – trying new skills over again until she had reached the high standard she was aiming for. National Theatre were also an incredibly supportive workplace, giving her additional projects specifically to develop additional skills she may need in the future of her career.”
On the win, Sarah commented: “I felt very grateful to my bosses that I was nominated to be shortlisted. Winning the award feels very special and lucky as I know that there are many more apprentices who also deserve to win it! It is really nice to have something physical that recognises the work that I have put in and that represents everything I have learned and made on my apprenticeship.
“WEBS and my tutor Craig have been great, I think Craig is a very good teacher and is also quite patient with the class which was useful when I was trying to build my confidence with using the machinery. My colleagues are all very experienced and talented makers so I was able to learn so much from all of them. Throughout my apprenticeship I was made to feel very supported in the work that I was doing by everyone around me which definitely helped me to grow confidence.”
National Theatre have always given exceptional feedback about Sarah’s progression, believing her to be a deserving recipient of the award. They added: “Throughout her Level 2 furniture making apprenticeship at WEBS Training, she has shown exceptional dedication and ability, culminating in a well- earned Distinction.
“Undertaking training in a traditionally male dominated field, Sarah was the only female in her cohort so has already become an excellent role model for aspiring female furniture makers. Sarah’s training required her to complete a traditional furniture making apprenticeship standard while simultaneously applying it to her work in an extremely busy workshop.
“As a naturally talented maker, Sarah combines creativity with technical precision and an instinctive understanding of craftmanship. Her passion is reflected in the high standard of her work and the professionalism she brings to every project. Unphased by any challenge set to her, Sarah always responds positively, learning quickly and absorbing skills and advice from experienced makers that surround her.”
Sarah completed Level 2 General Furniture Manufacturer, now Level 2 Furniture Making Operative, where National Theatre is currently recruiting their next furniture making apprentice for the props department.
