The award celebrates an individual whose work has significantly supported the art and craft of Lighting Design. It recognises the often-unsung heroes, programmers, software developers, electrical prop makers, rigging pioneers, production electricians, account handlers, specialist crew, and many others, whose expertise and dedication make live production possible.

Presented with the kind permission of Brian Croft’s family, the award is given in loving memory of Brian Croft (1938–2024), a true pioneer in the world of live entertainment production. Brian was a dear friend and role model to many of the PRG team and it was a privilege to be involved in this occasion.

Wayne Howell received the first edition of the award for his creativity and innovation throughout his career, spanning almost 40 years. Wayne is best known for inventing the Art-Net ethernet lighting protocol, which is supported by hundreds of manufacturers worldwide.

Remembering Brian Croft

Brian’s passion for theatre began early, as a founding member of the National Youth Theatre during his school days. He trained at the Bristol Old Vic Theatre School and launched his professional journey as an Assistant Stage Manager at Perth Repertory Theatre in 1959. He later returned to the National Youth Theatre as its first salaried staff member, setting the stage for a lifetime of leadership in the industry.

In 1968, Brian was invited by Michael Kustow to become Technical Director at the Institute of Contemporary Arts (ICA), where he helped open the ICA’s now-iconic venue on The Mall in London. During his time at the ICA, he briefly stepped away to join Chip Monck’s lighting team on the Rolling Stones’ European tour, an experience that sparked a series of bold moves between theatre and live music production.

Brian went on to co-found ESP Lighting with John Brown, where he helped usher in a new era of live touring production. He was widely credited with bringing theatrical discipline and structure into the wilder world of rock and roll, helping to establish the concept of the ‘designed show’, a touring production with cohesive lighting and visual identity. His influence was pivotal in elevating the scale and sophistication of shows for artists such as Rod Stewart, Queen, and ABBA.

Over the years, Brian’s career spanned some of the most influential companies in the industry, including ESP, TFA Electrosound, Theatre Projects, Samuelsons, and ultimately Vari-Lite. As Managing Director of Vari-Lite Europe, he played a transformative role in bringing automated lighting to not only concert touring but also theatre, television, and large-scale event production.

Brian mentored countless professionals throughout his career, many of whom remain active in the industry today. Known as much for his wisdom and generosity as for his technical brilliance, Brian was a mentor, a leader, and an extraordinary storyteller. Affectionately nicknamed “Crofty” by his peers, he was often referred to as the Godfather of Rock and Roll Lighting.

His legacy continues to shine through the work of those he inspired, and this award stands as a tribute to his enduring impact on the world of live production.