Description
30-year veteran Technical Assistant Stage Manager specializing in the operational command of complex technical plots, mechanical action props, and high-stakes site mobilization. Operating under the "Engineered Chaos" brand, Stumpy is defined by a rigorous, safety-critical approach to the deck, bridging the gap between technical workshop precision and live-set execution.
As Lead Safety Deck Hand for Danny Boyle’s ‘Free Your Mind’, he held ‘Clear to Fly’ authority over comms, managing harness integrity and performer clip-up for high-frequency aerial automation. This specialized safety discipline was forged over multiple seasons at the London Coliseum for the English National Opera (ENO), managing the intricate, precision cues required for productions such as ‘Satyagraha’ and ‘The Magic Flute’.
Beyond the wires, Stumpy brings elite logistical graft to large-scale builds. With The Luna Cinema, he spent four seasons as part of a small specialist team transforming heritage sites into 2,000-capacity venues within six-hour windows. From 3.5t fleet movements to the 8,000-mile Olympic Torch Relay, he delivers the practical reliability required for the industry’s most demanding environments. If it’s complex, safety-critical, or on a ticking clock, Stumpy ensures the gear is set, the safety is signed off, and the cues run exactly as called.
TECHNICAL SKILLSET & KEY COMPETENCIES:
SAFETY-CRITICAL: Lead Safety Deck Hand, ‘Clear to Fly’ Authority, Harness Inspection, Performer Clip-up, Automation Safety.
DECK OPERATIONS: Complex Cue Management, Mechanical Action Props, Creature ‘Skin’ Work, Comms/Cans Coordination.
LOGISTICS & SITE: 3.5t Fleet Management, Infrastructure Builds, Heritage Site Sensitivity.
CREDITS: English National Opera, Danny Boyle, Olympic Torch Relay, The Luna Cinema, Marlowe Theatre Canterbury, Sheffield Lyceum, Theatre Severn Shrewsbury
BASE: GL10 (Gloucestershire)
Special Interests
MECHANICAL ACTION & CREATURE EFFECTS: Extensive experience in the operation and deck-side management of mechanical action props and complex stage machinery. I have a particular interest in the integration of SFX and 'Creature' work (Skins), ensuring that the technical requirements of the prop or suit are balanced with performer safety and the director's vision.
AERIAL & AUTOMATION SAFETY: Deeply committed to the discipline of 'Clear to Fly' protocols. My interest lies in the meticulous nature of harness integrity, performer clip-up sequences, and the redundant safety checks required for high-frequency aerial cues. I specialize in maintaining a calm, authoritative comms environment during high-stakes automation plots.
HERITAGE SITE & SENSITIVE LOGISTICS: Specializing in the deployment of large-scale infrastructure within Grade I and II listed environments and public-facing heritage sites. I have a professional interest in the logistical challenge of 'Invisible Production'—transforming sensitive spaces (e.g., London Coliseum, historic docks, Cathedral grounds) into high-capacity venues without compromising the site's physical integrity.
TOURING & FLEET OPERATIONS: Veteran of long-haul logistical tours, including the 8,000-mile Olympic Torch Relay. I enjoy the tactical side of multi-vehicle movements, 3.5t fleet logistics, and the 'Rapid Build' philosophy—executing complex technical setups within 6-hour windows. I am highly proficient in navigating the shifting priorities of touring schedules and location moves.
COLLABORATIVE COMMAND: I pride myself on being a 'safe pair of hands' in the engine room of a production. My interest is in fostering high-performing team dynamics within 8–12 person crews, ensuring that even in 'Engineered Chaos,' the workflow is disciplined, the RAMS are respected, and the technical execution is flawless.