The ABTT Apprenticeship Network comes to the Theatre Show
28 May 2026
The relaunched ABTT Apprenticeship Network holds its first in-person event at this year's Theatre Show — and everyone is welcome.
On Thursday 4 June, the Preevue Seminar Room at Alexandra Palace becomes the gathering point for apprentices, graduates, employers, training providers and industry professionals for the first time. The session, Launching the New ABTT Apprenticeship Network, starts at 2pm and is followed directly by a networking social in the AAPTLE Lounge.
Speakers from Chichester Festival Theatre, the Royal Ballet & Opera, the Royal Shakespeare Company and Birmingham Hippodrome will lead the conversation — sharing what the relaunched Network means in practice and what's coming next.
Apprenticeships can be isolating. This is a chance to meet others on the same path, all in one room.
What is the ABTT Apprenticeship Network?
Relaunched in February 2026 during National Apprenticeship Week, the Network brings together current and prospective apprentices, employers, training providers and industry professionals. Its focus is skills development, professional growth and knowledge-sharing across theatre, live events and the creative industries.
The relaunched Network is shaped by community feedback, and includes:
- Quarterly in-person networking events
- Online activity for professional development and peer connection
- A core suite of CPD resources, including short, accessible videos
- On-demand e-learning, in development
Also at the Theatre Show
Apprenticeships are a thread running across the full two days:
Demystifying Apprenticeships | Wednesday 3 June, 3pm, Preevue Seminar Room Representatives from Chichester Festival Theatre, the Royal Ballet & Opera and Nottingham Playhouse explore how apprenticeships work and what they can offer — for apprentices, employers and training providers alike.
ABTT Apprentice of the Year Award | Wednesday 3 June, 6pm, Terrace The inaugural Apprentice of the Year Award is presented as part of the ABTT Awards & Social, recognising exceptional commitment, skill and professionalism from an apprentice working in theatre or live events.
Careers and Professional Development Hub | Stand H14, both days Drop in at any point across both days to speak one-to-one with specialists covering apprenticeships across all disciplines, CV and interview advice, training pathways and more. No appointment needed.
Specialists available for apprenticeship conversations include Sally Garner-Gibbons (Apprenticeship Manager, Chichester Festival Theatre), Jayne Gould (Work Experience & Apprenticeships, Royal Ballet & Opera), Vicki Morris (Theatre & Venues Lead, Creative Alliance) and Bendy Ashfield (Co-Director, Theatre People).
The ABTT Theatre Show is on 3–4 June 2026 at Alexandra Palace, London. Admission is free.