Our Story
By Your Side From Start To Finish
How did we get here?
In 2015, four friends with over 60 years of combined experience in technical theatre decided to do something about a problem they kept encountering: too many production companies were either too expensive, too inflexible, or simply not interested in supporting smaller productions and amateur groups to the standard they deserved.
They'd spent years working alongside each other on productions — building friendships, shared standards and a common belief that professional-quality technical support shouldn't only be available to those with professional budgets. So they founded 1stintheatre.
The name reflects a simple truth about technical work in theatre: we are first in to set up and last to leave. From the very first planning conversation to the final get-out, we are with you. That's what 'From Start to Finish' means to us.
Ten years on, we've grown organically — expanding our hire inventory, our network of trusted freelance technicians, and our range of services. We've supported school musicals, professional touring companies, community festivals, venue installations and everything in between. The approach hasn't changed: professional standards, personal service, and a genuine investment in the success of every production we touch.
Our Values
Creativity — we bring fresh thinking to every brief and never assume there's only one way to solve a technical challenge.
Integrity — every piece of work is delivered to the highest standard we can achieve with the resources available.
Collaboration — we work with you, not for you. Your vision drives every decision.
Inclusivity — we believe professional technical support should be accessible to productions of all scales and budgets.
Accountability — we are responsible for our work and for the people we put on your production.
OUR FREELANCE NETWORK
How flexibility becomes a strength
Unlike a company with a fixed permanent team, we work with a carefully selected network of freelance technicians and specialists. This is a deliberate choice, not a limitation.
It means that when you come to us, we're not limited to the skills our in-house team happens to cover. We can match the right person — or the right combination of people — to exactly what your production needs. A lighting designer with experience in musicals. A sound engineer who has worked in your specific venue before. A production manager who has managed a show of your exact scale and complexity.
Every freelancer we work with is someone we know, have worked alongside, and trust to represent 1stintheatre's standards. We are responsible for the quality of the people we bring to your production. That accountability doesn't disappear because someone is a freelancer.
Tell us about your show.
Venue, students, dates — and we'll take it from there.