UK - The Association of British Theatre Technicians (ABTT) has announced that Mig Walsh, senior lecturer at Guildford School of Acting, stepped down as co-chair of the ABTT on Monday 14 July 2025, following nearly four years of dedicated service in the role.
David Evans, sustainability consultant, freelance production manager and current editor of Sightline, will continue as ABTT chair, ensuring leadership continuity and supporting ABTT CEO Liz Sillett and the wider team as they pursue strategic goals set earlier this year.
Appointed co-chair in November 2021 alongside David, Mig has played a pivotal role in guiding the ABTT through the challenges of the post-pandemic period. Her leadership has been marked by a strong focus on mental health and welfare within the backstage theatre industry – areas in which she has driven meaningful and lasting change.
As an ABTT-accredited tutor, Mig was instrumental in launching the Association’s Mental Health First Aid Training programmes. She also led the development of the ABTT’s ‘W’ for Welfare Guidance Note series which deals with legal duties and best practice for ensuring the welfare of all workers.
In 2023, Mig established the ABTT Make A Difference Conference, an annual event focused on proactive solutions to current industry challenges.
David Evans said of Mig’s tenure: "Mig has been an inspiration, and her achievements have been extraordinary. The ‘W’ series of Guidance notes are massively useful tools, and the Make a Difference Conference has spawned numerous valuable initiatives across the industry. Working with Mig has been energising, exciting and hugely productive and she has always brought a people focused perspective. It will be strange chairing without Mig."
Reflecting on her time as co-chair, Mig Burgess Walsh said: “I’m so proud of all that I’ve achieved in the four years I have been co-chair. Thank you for having me.”
Liz Sillett, ABTT CEO, added: “Working with both Mig and David over the past year has been a privilege. Their combined expertise has helped move the ABTT forward and ensured we remain a relevant, modern, and responsive organisation.”