Hi, I’m Ash Dawson, a UK based Lighting and Video Technician, Production Manager, Crew Chief, and Technical Project Specialist with over 12 years of industry-specific experience delivering world-class live events across the UK, Europe, North & South America, Australia, and New Zealand.

I started Dawson Production Live in August 2022 as a banner for the different avenues I develop within the events industry, from freelance production delivery and technical leadership to workflow tools and software designed to make live events run better.

My career spans almost every role within a modern production team. Although I specialise in the delivery of Lighting and Video productions, I specialise in Dimmers/ Systems, FOH Systems and Networking and I continue to operate MA and Avolites Consoles to a good standard. That technical depth underpins my work as a Production Manager and Crew Chief, allowing me to make informed decisions quickly, communicate clearly with departments, and anticipate problems before they become issues.

As a Production Manager, I've overseen projects from initial planning through to final derig. This includes budgeting, advancing shows, scheduling, crew planning, supplier liaison, site logistics, risk management, and ensuring all departments are aligned with the creative and technical brief. I’m comfortable being the central point of contact between artists, tour management, production companies, suppliers, venues, and local crew, keeping everyone moving in the same direction under pressure.

I thrive on complex builds, tight turnarounds, and high-stakes environments where preparation, structure, and attention to detail are critical. My experience includes global touring, major festivals, broadcast events, and high-end corporate productions, supporting artists such as Fred Again.., Pet Shop Boys, Noah Kahan, Westlife, and many more.

As a Crew Chief, I focus on clarity, safety, and morale. I believe the best shows are delivered by crews who feel supported, informed, and respected. I bring strong leadership on-site, clear task delegation, and a strong safety-first mindset, ensuring systems run smoothly and clients leave confident in the delivery. I place real value on efficient prep, accurate paperwork, safe handling, and keeping kit show-ready. I understand how good pre-production and prep directly impact on-site performance, budgets, and stress levels.

I’m currently developing tools to improve project management workflows for live event professionals, including our in-development lighting software DPL:tools.

If you’re looking for someone who can plan the show, manage the people, operate the systems, and deliver under pressure — with a cool head, a wide technical skillset, and a genuine love for the work — I’d love to chat.