February 8, 2023

Catwalk Considerations

Catwalks are a common feature in performing arts spaces. Theatre consultants recommend locations and design criteria for these important components. Well-designed catwalks are safe and useful parts of a building, providing access for lighting, rigging, and general maintenance.
December 17, 2022

Choosing Between Performance Equipment Upgrades or a Venue Renovation

Performing arts buildings are often thought of as 50 or 100 year buildings. But a plan is needed so these spaces remain operational and to meet the needs of an owner as requirements and technology changes. Here are some thoughts on the ranges of intervention, and a good argument for developing a long-term plan.
December 11, 2022

Rigging Terminations – Then and Now

Our industry has come a long way over the last few years, and it’s not just about LEDs! There have been great strides when it comes to safety and proper engineering of the equipment that goes into theatres. Here, we go into the weeds, er… up into the flies.
November 13, 2022

Early Theatre Winch Controls

In the early days of Theatre Consulting as a profession, some consultants were much more hands-on when it comes to the design of equipment to solve a particular need. As the saying goes, “necessity is the mother of invention”. Jim Read, FASTC shares some thoughts on his early work with consulting pioneer, George C. Izenour, and how early winch controls were developed.
November 12, 2022

ASTC Remembers Jim Read, FASTC

The American Society of Theatre Consultants (ASTC) mourns the loss of longtime member and Fellow, James “Jim” Read, FASTC, who passed away on November 2, 2022.
October 4, 2022

ASTC Announces New Member – Michael Nishball

The American Society of Theatre Consultants (ASTC) announces that Michael Nishball has been accepted into membership at the organization’s Forum, held in Nashville at the beginning […]
August 22, 2022

Did You Know – Dressing Room Power and Light

Dressing and Makeup Rooms have specific requirements that are often ignored or misunderstood. Some of those requirements help performers do the work they need to do, while other requirements are there for life safety.
July 20, 2022

Did You Know – A Sticky Ticket Wicket

After you work through the word etymology, you will find some solid information about trends in box offices for performing arts.
June 14, 2022

ASTC Mentorship

ASTC has created a mentorship program for students so they may learn about our profession, and with any luck, better expose students to a career path they may not know exists. The first student has now been through the program in New York City.