Theatre engineering solutions
We pride ourselves on designing and manufacturing first-class props and backstage equipment for theatres and theatre companies.
Our highly experienced design engineers have worked with many big and little names in the entertainment industry to transform unique ideas into exceptional finished products.
If you need a custom-made mechanical prop, stage equipment or machined component, you can rely on us to meet the most demanding of specifications and deadlines.
10 years’ experience of creating camera support solutions for film projects
We can transform a rough sketch into a high-quality finished product
All your needs met, from design to manufacturing, load testing to assembly
Our custom-made theatre props and equipment
Puppets
We can develop a bespoke mechanical system so your puppet moves exactly how you want it to.
Electro-mechanical systems
We can quickly design and produce reliable control systems for all types of applications.
Stilts
We can develop custom-made stilts that imitate the movement of a specific animal or other subject.
Rigging equipment
We produce high-quality spreader bars, anchors and goldtails for the safe running of an event.
Please contact us direct to discuss any of the above items or a bespoke piece of stunt equipment you require.
Bespoke theatre engineering service
We offer a bespoke design and engineering service to theatres, concert halls and other live performance venues that can meet your specific practical and aesthetic needs.
Our bespoke service begins with us closely working with you to transform your initial idea into a design for a theatre prop or piece of equipment that will successfully work in the real world.
We then enter a prototype and manufacturing stage where you can continue to input into the design and construction of your product to ensure it will meet all your ongoing requirements.
At AEC, we fully understand that actors and theatre production professionals require props and backstage equipment they can rely on 100% of the time.
Find out more about our design and development and manufacturing process.
Theatre engineering solutions – Frequently asked questions
How long has AEC been producing bespoke props and equipment for theatres and theatre production companies?
We’ve been designing and manufacturing custom-made theatre props and equipment for 10 years. We guarantee products of the highest quality because we have a superb team of engineers and machinists and state-of-the-art equipment. No matter how complex your needs, we’re positive we can meet them.
Who has AEC created customised onstage and backstage equipment for in the past?
We’ve created theatre props and machined equipment for a wide range of leading theatres in London, including The Lyceum Theatre in the West End.
We’ve also created theatre engineering solutions for theatres and theatre production companies in other parts of the UK, including the Gaiety Theatre in Manchester.
Our goal is to be the “go to” engineering company for any type of production, from West End blockbuster, to regional theatre production, to local live performance.
How does AEC test the props and theatre equipment it manufactures?
We have a dedicated inspection and testing department that can carry out a range of tests that ensure the products we manufacture are 100% reliable.
Tests we conduct include load testing, pressure testing, pneumatic testing and electrical testing. We can also provide load testing certifications, if needed.
How long does it take for AEC to create a custom-made theatre engineering solution?
This will depend on the challenge you’re facing and how complex the solution is. It will also depend on the finish you need for your product.
However, we do pride ourselves on being able to meet the most demanding of deadlines, even if the brief we’re given is particularly complicated.