Set carpenters all have unique paths, and mine is no exception.

From unexpected opportunities to invaluable support from seasoned professionals, my career has taken me around the world and back again.

About me.

This is where I've come from…..

Where it all started…

A black-and-white photo of Harry Doherty sitting on a flight case in the back of a truck, surrounded by other flight cases, showcasing expertise in set carpentry and live event production logistics.

The very beginning

On only a few occasions, I tried out the lighting profession at a young age. I started with small support tasks in a modest lighting warehouse, which has since grown into a well-established UK lighting provider.

Which has nothing to do with my involvement what-so-ever.

But, this experience gave me my first insight into the world of event production.

A black-and-white photo of Harry Doherty standing on a stage, dressed in black clothes and working, highlighting professionalism and expertise in set carpentry and live event production.

Unexpectedly

I didn’t pursue a career in the events industry, but instead, explored other interests.

But, years later an unexpected opportunity arose to work as a set carpenter at rehearsals of the UK tour of Rag'n'Bone Man.

This chance marked the very beginning of my journey in set carpentry, leading me to where I am today.

Go behind the scenes with

Published every Monday

The blog, that tours.

A black-and-white photo of Harry Doherty dressed in black, holding set equipment and staring into the camera lens, showcasing expertise and dedication to set carpentry and live event production.

Momentum

Through a mix of recommendations and a bit of dumb luck, I landed my first music tour.

I took on the lead role as a set carpenter, handling the entire stage setup and taking full responsibility.

It was a sink or swim opportunity.

A vintage-style black-and-white photo with a purple tint of Harry Doherty holding a tape measure on a stage, working alongside a local crew to build the stage, showcasing expertise in set carpentry and teamwork in live event production.

I’m a Set Carpenter

With the beginning phase behind me, I started to secure regular work as a set carpenter for various artists.

I received numerous recommendations and frequent invites to return for regular tours, solidifying my reputation in the industry.

A photo of the crew from the Robbie Williams 2023 tour, gathered happily on stage with a cassette backdrop, celebrating their teamwork and success in live event production.

Arena tour

This bit was insane, and in the real world, it never should have happened.

But with the amazing support from the set carpenters on this tour, I managed to stick around and work on an incredible stage setup, the size of which I had never done before.

I was surrounded by carpenters far more experienced than myself.

What an amazing crew!

A photo of Harry Doherty surrounded by stage equipment, responding to a radio call, showcasing coordination and expertise in set carpentry and live event production.

A photo of Harry Doherty surrounded by staging equipment, staring at a deck, with numerous guitars in the background, showcasing expertise in set carpentry and live event production.

and here we are…

Building stages for some amazing tours including Rag'n'Bone Man, Royal Blood, Robbie Williams, Aurora, Lorde and N-Dubz. I've been part of some crazy tours, both small and big, and have had the privilege of collaborating with some of the greatest in the industry.

I can't wait to see what the next few years have to offer.

Digital Portfolio

A photo of Harry Doherty amidst staging equipment, focused and working, with DressHeadstone Black in the background, emphasizing dedication to set carpentry and event production.

A black-and-white photo of Harry Doherty dressed head-to-toe in black, wearing a backpack, a flat cap, and sunglasses, clearly backstage at a live show, showcasing professionalism in set carpentry and event production.

Testimony

“I've worked with Harry on a few projects, and his set carpentry skills are outstanding. He really gets the design plans and brings them to life perfectly.

I highly recommend Harry for any set carpentry work.”

Neil Holloway

“Working alongside Harry has been an absolute pleasure. His set carpentry skills are exceptional, and is always reliable, communicates clearly, and is willing to lend a hand whenever needed.