I’m really excited to announce the release of XMove, a new user interface (UI) for programming the movement of automated theatre systems. The software has been developed specifically for use in the live entertainment creative environment where speed, accuracy and flexibility are imperative. Available via a per-axis license, the XMove interface offers a host of powerful, easy to programme features.

The software interface, which is simple to install and quick to learn, can be easily retro-fitted to existing infrastructure or configured to work with new hardware available from theatre-specialist suppliers or from non-theatrical industrial manufacturers such as Siemens, Control Techniques and Beckhoff.  

The availability of XMove software on a license basis overcomes the high capital investment costs traditionally associated with the purchase or refurbishment of automated equipment. Created in Apple’s latest coding language – SwiftUI, the user interface provides a powerful and robust platform.

XM Automation has recognised that ease of programming is key to the operation of automation systems and this specialist software application has a powerful graphical interface providing an intuitive tool for simple and complex programming of moves. Multi-target moves, locked groups, multiple user profiles, shows and venues are supported as are more specialist requirements including ‘Rigging & Referencing’ for scenery which is key in repertory theatres.

For more information contact info@xmautomation.co.uk

I love this article from ABTT Sightline (1979), written by the great Dick Brett on the original Olivier Power Flying System. I remember Ray Cross, chief LX at the Oxford Playhouse sharing this with me, whilst I was still a student. The first ‘computerised’ power flying system in the UK, 160 hoists controlled by 35 drives through a telephone exchange style automatic patch panel all running on a PDP11 with a 1MByte hard disk (or process peripherals disk as it was referred to). So many of the modern concepts (playbacks, deads, timed and synchronised cues) exist in this pioneering system. An amazing feat of engineering at the time, and the start of a journey to automation in the theatre.

With thanks to Robin Townley and the ABTT Archives for sharing.

Great to sponsor the ABTT Restart Party along with Charcoal Blue Consultants, David Staples, and of course TAIT. Wonderful to help enable the theatre industry to meet up ‘in person’ for the first time in a long while, and to catch up with friends old and new. Held on the roof terrace of the Institute of Electrical Technology (IET), with stunning views over the Thames providing the backdrop to some excellent conversation.

ABTT photos: Origin8photography.com

Working from home is all very well, but it’s great to start back in a real office again. Thanks to Piers and Jeremy for letting me share a little of their stunning space in King’s Cross. Wonder Works has a real buzz about it. Really enjoying the experience, do call in and say hello if you are in the area.

https://wonder.co.uk

Very excited to be associated with the ABTT Launch Party for Modern Theatres, edited by David Staples. David has worked tirelessly for over 4 years to bring this concept to life. Very happy to have helped in a small way by contributing the chapter on Stage Engineering.

The Launch party at the IET should be a great event – looking forward to catching up with friends old and new as the theatre industry re-awakes from the hardest challenge we have ever faced.

https://www.abtt.org.uk/product/modern-theatres-1950-2020/