White Light celebrates Bryan Raven’s outstanding industry contributions

White Light is delighted to honour the achievements of former Managing Director Bryan Raven, whose dedication to theatre, sustainability, and industry development has left a lasting impact. Though surprised by the recognition, Bryan has been deeply moved by the response, receiving hundreds of heartfelt messages from colleagues and peers acknowledging his leadership, reliability, and unwavering commitment to the industry.

Throughout his career, Bryan has been instrumental in driving industry-wide initiatives. He played a key role in White Light’s long-standing sponsorship of TheatreCraft, ensuring that aspiring off-stage theatre professionals have access to valuable career support. Reflecting on his involvement, Bryan recalls: “I was introduced to TheatreCraft over a decade ago through personal relationship and their mission resonated with me.  It is such a vital event for our industry as it allows the next generation a much-needed insight into the various resources available and the paths they may be able to take. It’s all about encouraging and making sure everything is completely accessible – hence the importance supporting them through sponsoring. One of my proudest achievements is to see that TheatreCraft has become an integral part of White Light’s annual calendar, championed internally by various team members.” Bryan’s commitment extended to helping with the development of TheatreCraft Next Generation, dedicated to 7-15 years old, held at the Science Museum in London in 2024.

Bryan has also been a driving force in nurturing new talent within the industry. His involvement in Skillscene since 2012 and his position as one of the founding directors of the National College Creative Industries (NCCI) led to the creation of White Light’s award-winning apprenticeship scheme, which has provided over 75 young people with a Creative Venue Technician apprenticeship since its inception in 2011. His advocacy work in government lobbying has ensured that technical theatre careers remain firmly on the agenda.

For over 15 years, Bryan has championed sustainability in the performing arts. He recalls: “In 2008, I collaborated with Julie’s Bicycle on the Greening London’s Theatres guide, a practical guide for the industry launched by the then Mayor of London, Ken Livingstone. It outlined how London theatres could cut carbon emissions and implement greener practices.” From his early involvement in the Green in London Theatre campaign to his recent work with the Theatre Green Book, Bryan has consistently pushed for environmental responsibility. His collaborations with sustainability leaders such as Julie’s Bicycle, Paule Constable (Lighting Designer), Paul Handley (Head of Production at the National Theatre), Juliet Hayes (Risk & Sustainability Manager at SOLT) to name but a few, highlight his unwavering commitment. Under his leadership, White Light achieved ISO14001 accreditation in 2022—an international standard for environmental management systems—followed by B Corp certification just months later.

Bryan reflects: “We were introduced to B Corp while working towards ISO14001, and we soon realised our existing practices aligned perfectly. It wasn’t about changing our approach but formalising it. B Corp’s mission resonated with us—to grow a profitable, sustainable business with a global reputation for excellence. This wasn’t a short-term sustainability initiative but a long-term commitment to accountability and responsible business practices.”

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Bryan played a pivotal role in the #WeMakeEvents campaign, advocating for the live events sector at a time of crisis. His efforts in lobbying MPs at the House of Commons helped bring the industry’s challenges to the forefront of government discussions.

Throughout his time at White Light, Bryan was supported by colleagues who enabled him to focus on these vital issues and help shape a better industry. He laughs: “Of course, not every idea of mine was a winner!”

Bryan’s legacy is deeply rooted in White Light’s values, inspired by founder John Simpson’s ethos of ‘doing the right thing.’ The company remains committed to integrity, innovation, and industry support. White

Light’s Technical Director Dave Isherwood comments: “We are proud to see this carried forward by our team, from Stuart Porter’s work with the ALPD to Jonathan Haynes’ advocacy for the Save the Beck Theatre campaign, and Liz Thompson and Sandra Tyler’s leadership of our apprenticeship programme, among many others. As we look to the future and the next generation of leaders, we remain dedicated to upholding these values. We are also pleased to announce Craig Bennett as our new General Manager, reinforcing our commitment to being the industry’s ‘Partner of Choice.’ Bryan’s contributions to White Light – and the wider industry – are truly invaluable, and we couldn’t be prouder of all he has contributed, continues to achieve, and the invaluable lessons he has shared with us.”

When asked what advice Bryan would offer to those looking to make a similar impact, he shares: “In today’s climate, making an impact is more challenging due to macroeconomic and geopolitical factors.

However, it is now more critical than ever to pursue a responsible business strategy. The next generation of leaders recognises this, which gives me hope. Demonstrating the business case for sustainability and responsibility to external stakeholders is key to fostering a long-term, ethical approach. It will also help attract future talent, as young professionals increasingly seek to work for organisations that align with their values.”

Even as he embarks on new ventures, Bryan remains deeply connected to the industry. His upcoming projects include presenting a climate change paper at Showlight in Dijon (19^th – 22^nd May), continuing his engagement with the Power of Events to inspire young talent, and working with Theatre Green Book to address embedded carbon in technical products. He is also mentoring business leaders on their career and organisational growth.

We extend our sincere congratulations to Bryan on this well-deserved recognition and look forward to his continued influence in shaping the future of the performing arts industry.

Photography by Danny Kaan.