Philip was an intergral pillar of our community, and we are proud that he chose to launch the revolutionary Steeldeck platform at the 1986 ABTT Theatre Show. Since then, Steeldeck has become a must-visit destination on our show floor, consistently supporting the industry through innovation, collaboration, and ambitious creativity.

David Evans, ABTT Trustee and Chair writes:

“Phil Parsons revolutionised staging. Prior to his creation of the now ubiquitous and much copied steel deck, we made stages out of scaffolding with decks of scaffolding boards covered in hardboard. I am sure that I was not the only PM to have a piano leg drop through the stage. If we wanted to make a platform we used gate-legged rostra with an 18 mm top (or ¾ inch in those days). These were a sort of pop-up book of ply forms held together by ill-fitting hinges that certainly could not take the loads that Steeldeck effortlessly did. Phil introduced strength, consistency, adaptability and modularity, he also ensured that his stages were level, which up to then was not guaranteed.

Steeldeck was one of the most important inventions in theatre for decades, and the ABTT has always been very proud that Phil chose to launch the extraordinary product at the theatre show, at the Riverside Studios, in 1986.”

Philip’s legacy can be seen throughout the arts and live events industries. Many had the privilege of working with him in person, while countless others continue to use his revolutionary designs every day.

In 2024, we were proud to honour Philip with the ABTT Fellow of the Association Award, recognising his significant and long-standing contributions to the live events and performing arts industries.

Our heartfelt condolences are with Philip’s family, friends and colleagues at this sad time.