TAIT: Building World-Class Entertainment Technology in Haverhill

If you’ve ever wondered who’s responsible for bringing some of the world’s most exciting live experiences to life, then you might be interested to learn about TAIT, the global entertainment technology company tucked away in our very own Haverhill.

Working across major music tours and theatre productions as well as cruise ships and theme-park attractions, TAIT is the team behind some of the world’s most ambitious live experiences. They’re responsible for designing, engineering and manufacturing the systems behind spectacular productions. Clients and projects have included artists and events as varied as Harry Styles, Pet Shop Boys, SXSW London and the Royal Shakespeare Company.

The company’s history in Haverhill began in 1978, starting out as the local company of Delstar Engineering. In November 2023, TAIT opened a purpose built, state-of-the-art sustainable 100,000-square-foot facility to deliver international projects. The site brings different disciplines together to turn creative ideas into working systems. A client might approach the company with plans for anything, from an entirely new theatre to
a major international theme-park attraction. TAIT’s teams then work to formalize the creative, develop the design, and complete every part of the technical engineering and fabrication required to make that vision possible.

Haverhill is a center of excellence for the design and manufacture of custom electrical and mechanical systems. The company’s in-house approach means projects can move from an initial concept and design mock-up through to fabrication and integration. Complete
systems can be assembled and tested at the facility before being transported to their final
destination.

One recent example was the SKYLIFT system; an open-air rotating glass platform that resides three stories above the top of the Rockefeller Centre in New York City. It was assembled and tested outside the Haverhill facility and became a familiar sight around the town.

Alongside its global work, TAIT is creating routes into the industry for local people. The company offers a range of career opportunities, including apprenticeships, and has a longstanding relationship with West Suffolk College, with which it currently runs
apprenticeship programmes. It also works with Cambridge’s ADC Theatre and participates in the University of Cambridge’s Open Day to introduce students to careers in engineering and entertainment technology.

There is no single route into the sector. Opportunities range from specialist engineering roles to apprenticeships in fabrication, while practical experience gained through local theatres can also provide a valuable starting point.

TAIT’s message is simple: curiosity, practical experience and a willingness to learn can open the door to a rewarding career creating moments that move people.