London’s iconic National Theatre, has reaffirmed its commitment to technical excellence and safety with additional investment in EXE Technology chain hoists, further strengthening its position as one of the most advanced and innovative theatrical institutions in the world.
The National have purchased additional 350Kg and 500Kg EXE Rise D8+ chain hoists to complement their extensive EXE hoist inventory as part of their ongoing upgrade and refurbishment programme, which has been taking place across the venue over the last few years. The new hoists are fitted with a custom hook attachment for ease and compatibility with the grids across the venues, matching their existing EXE hoist inventory as a vital technical pre-requisite for the theatre.
The EXE Rise D8+ chain hoists, renowned for their precision, durability and safety are now an integral part of the National Theatre’s rigging infrastructure. This latest procurement enhances the theatre’s ability to manage increasingly complex productions and dynamic stage requirements with the additional EXE investment now facilitating Stephen Sondheim's production of ‘
Here We Are’ which is currently running in the National’s Lyttelton Theatre until 28 June 2025.
Mike Rungen, the NT’s lifting operations manager said: “At the NT, reliable and robust lifting equipment is essential to facilitate the demanding and constantly evolving requirements of productions across the organisation. With EXE Technology, we’re confident that the kit won’t let us down and that maintenance requirements are less likely to hold up operations.
The frequency with which these assets are redeployed to create the next creative venture within our venues, means that form factor and manual handling considerations are key factors in sourcing. Our EXE Rise chain hoists are easier to handle than some others that we’ve used in the past and can fit within a smaller space, which allows greater flexibility in their use.
We have a great relationship with Matt and the team at Area Four Industries who respond efficiently and knowledgeably to our needs, and hope to collaborate further moving forward.”
The investment builds on a long-standing relationship between the National Theatre and Area Four Industries UK, partnering with EXE Technology. The National’s inventory comprises of 250Kg, 350Kg and 500Kg EXE Rise D8+ chain hoists which have been instrumental in delivering smooth lifting operations on some of the venue’s most technically demanding shows across the three venues, which also include the Olivier and Dorfman Theatres.
EXE Technology chain hoists are engineered for high-performance stagecraft combining reliability, precision and safety to meet the demands of modern theatrical production. Designed to support ambitious set designs, the EXE hoists offer exceptional load-handling capabilities with fine control, enabling precise, synchronised movement, which is of vital importance for the National’s rigging team.
EXE’s advanced safety features reduce the need for manual intervention, helping to create a safer environment for backstage crews. Fully compatible with the theatre’s digital control, the EXE hoists deliver pinpoint accuracy in lifting and positioning, supporting both creative flexibility and operational efficiency.
As audiences continue to return to the South Bank venue in record numbers, this behind-the-scenes investment ensures that productions are supported by EXE Technology’s world-leading stage technology, delivering both artistic impact and operational excellence.
Credit images: National Theatre and A4IUK