Gearhouse Splitbeam and DWR host Theatre Flyman Training
Gearhouse Splitbeam and DWR host Theatre Flyman Training
Gearhouse Splitbeam, in association with DWR Distribution, has hosted a Basic Theatre Flyman Training course at the Teatro at Montecasino in Johannesburg, aimed at supporting skills development and knowledge transfer within South Africa’s theatre industry. The inaugural training session brought together representatives from theatres across the country to learn the fundamentals of theatre flying systems from experienced industry professionals.
“For many years, I have wanted to host flyman training,” said Alistair Kilbee, managing director of Gearhouse Splitbeam. “It is one of those theatre roles that often goes unnoticed, yet it is absolutely essential. A good flyman is like a good followspot operator, you only notice them when something goes wrong. I wanted to help change that perception and hopefully inspire more technicians to become interested in this highly specialised craft.”
The training was led by Rob Young and Keith Pugin from DWR Distribution, alongside lighting consultant and freelancer Denis Hutchinson. According to Kilbee, the programme was designed to provide practical, experience-based learning rather than relying solely on theory.
“Rob Young from DWR is a master when it comes to the manufacture of flying systems, while lighting consultant and freelancer Denis Hutchinson has been involved in the construction of flying systems in the majority of theatres around the country,” noted Kilbee. “Together with Keith Pugin from DWR, they brought an incredible depth of knowledge and practical insight.”
The course covered single and double-purchase handline flying systems, introducing delegates to key terminology, operating procedures and safety practices. Participants also received hands-on training in load balancing, cue calling, communication during performances, bar lashing and knot-tying.
Additional expertise was provided by veteran flymen Stephens Olifant and Hammilton Sefara, both of whom have worked alongside Kilbee for more than two decades.
The Teatro provided access to its facilities for the training, enabling both classroom-based and practical learning sessions. Organisers hope the initiative will be the first of a series of programmes focused on developing technical theatre skills and supporting the transfer of specialist knowledge to future generations of theatre technicians.
