UK Theatre Conference – June 2024

As a UK Theatre Partner Member, it made perfect sense for us to join fellow theatre professionals from all four nations at Southbank Centre’s Queen Elizabeth Hall for the first UK Theatre Conference. John Good were present as an Exhibitor Sponsor by way of a stand that  proved super popular with delegates at the bustling Market Place, and also served as a space for us to catch up with other suppliers.

When not greeting #TheatreFamily colleagues (some who have been our customers for decades!) or introducing our suite of products and services to new friendly faces, we also had the opportunity to sit in on a number of thought-provoking panel session and speeches. The depth of the programme was comprehensive; including topics such as workforce wellbeing, commercial touring, tax relief, and accessibility standards. The most frequent message that persisted through all sessions, was that collaboration is key.

It was, however, the sustainability panel that piqued our interest the most. As the leading environmentally conscious printer to the sector, we were impressed by the steps being taken by theatres to make a green culture central to their processes and policies. It was great to learn some venues have a Sustainability Officer who has a pivotal role in supporting all departments with recycling, repurposing and minimising emissions. While there are always improvements to be made, it was encouraging to learn that much of what the industry is navigating towards, we have already achieved at John Good. The launch of the Theatre Green Book 2 was a powerful and inspiring way to close the conference!

It was a terrific day and we were delighted to remind attendees of our newest kit additions that enable wide-format printing and producing on substrates such as glass, metal, wood and foamex. Naturally, we mentioned our commitment to safeguarding the environment by way of Soil Association and FSC certification, ISO standard adherence and regularly sourcing carbon balanced papers approved by World Land Trust.

Thank you to the superb UK Theatre/SOLT team, who glided through the busy day like swans!