Theatre Operations: Martyn’s Law and maintenance plans
As part of our three-year pilot programme, Resilient Theatres: Resilient Communities, this webinar will offer theatre professionals a chance to hear about theatre operations with a specific focus on security and theatre maintenance planning.
We all know about the public-facing side of theatres, such as spectacular performances, creative set designs and powerful stories. What is less known is the detailed work that goes into running a theatre building. The importance of efficient systems, clear processes and robust plans cannot be underestimated in order to be able to effectively operate a thriving theatre building, which involves all aspects of maintenance, lease agreements, security, cleaning and stage door, amongst other things.
This webinar will begin with a focus on safety and security, a high priority for public premises including theatres. We will hear from security consultant Sarah Dever about the latest developments with the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025 which received Royal Assent in April. Following the Manchester Arena terrorist attack in 2017, the Act was developed to help certain public premises reduce their vulnerability to terrorism and improve their preparedness. The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025 is also known as Martyn’s law in memory of Martyn Hett, who was killed in the Manchester Arena bombing. Sarah will be joined by Juliet Hayes from SOLT and UK Theatre, who will offer tips on what theatres of all sizes could start to think about now in preparation for the law coming into force in approximately two years’ time.
Two theatres will also share their unique approaches to developing theatre maintenance plans. Fiona Harvey, the Director of Estates and Facilities at Royal Lyceum Theatre in Edinburgh, will talk about how she has evolved the venue’s approach towards theatre maintenance to become more strategic, whilst remaining responsive to urgent matters. Fiona will share insight into how she works with stakeholders, such as the council which holds the lease, as well as colleagues in the artistic and commissioning teams to leverage resources to maintain this beautiful heritage theatre, built in 1874. The final speaker, Andrew Roberts of Theatr Clwyd in Mold, North Wales, will talk about what it is like to manage a building that is pending a capital redevelopment. He will discuss how Theatr Clwyd created a temporary village during the redevelopment and what sort of maintenance plan was developed for that phase. Andrew will also talk about the considerations involved in moving into a redeveloped building, in phases.
This webinar is for anyone who would like an introductory overview about theatre security and building maintenance. It will be hosted and chaired by Michelle Cawardine-Palmer, Head of Theatre Management.
Speaker Biographies
Sarah Dever Security Consultant
Sarah is a protective security specialist who helps businesses and organisations stay safe from terrorism and major threats. She was a Counter Terrorism Security Advisor with the Metropolitan Police Service and has worked across some of London’s biggest and iconic sites. Now working as an independent consultant with the West End Security Group and running her own company, Premises Protect Ltd, Sarah provides clear, practical security advice that helps clients prepare for and respond to evolving risks.
Juliet Hayes Risk & Sustainability Manager, SOLT and UK Theatre
Juliet is the Risk and Sustainability Manager for The Society of London Theatre (SOLT) and UK Theatre where she provides advice at operational and strategic levels. She represents the collective interests of the membership in relation to risk management and sustainability issues, providing a consolidated and effective industry voice. With 46 years’ experience in the theatre industry across a range of roles in the commercial as well as subsidised sector, Juliet is well placed to provide hands on advice. She also offers bespoke consultancy in areas of safety, sustainability and safeguarding.
Fiona Harvey Director of Estates and Facilities at Royal Lyceum Theatre
Fiona is a trained architect with over 28 years’ experience in architectural practice and estates environments. Having worked in Arizona and London for many years, she returned to Scotland and led on capital projects and estates strategies for several Scottish universities. She has a strong background in feasibility studies, value engineering, risk management and sustainability, and enjoys collaborating with diverse stakeholders and partners to deliver high-quality projects that meet clients’ needs. In her current role, Fiona leads on building maintenance and facilities and is the health and safety designated Competent Person and sustainability champion.
Andrew Roberts Finance, Operations and People Director, Theatr Clwyd
Andrew joined Theatr Clwyd in 2016 and brings accountancy and audit experience into his role. He has acquired high level HR qualifications, overseen full company re-structures and delivered finance and HR transitions to new, fit for purpose systems. He has led on the business continuity plans and delivery of the redevelopment of Theatr Clwyd, including relocation to new offices and constructing temporary public and performance facilities. Andrew is a keen theatre maker with involvement in local youth theatre and amateur dramatic companies.