The event took place on 15 July at Grant and Anthea's stunning country home in Surrey. Guests included media friends, celebrities and general public ticket holders. Everyone present was wined and dined, and then entertained by some famous names from the world of television and showbiz including The Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra, Duncan James, Keedie, Chico and Lulu. Hosted by Bobbie Davro, Master of Ceremonies, there were two auctions during the evening including a Silent Auction. Prizes in the second auction included a shopping trip with Liz Hurley, a weekend on a yacht in the Mediterranean, an apartment in London and a Ferrari.
For this event, Blackout supplied a ground support truss structure that was situated over the main stage. Flown trusses were located in the body of the main marquee supporting lights, projection and sound equipment. Blackout starcloth, black wool serge drapes and gold velour drapes (both fixed and tracked) were used together with gauzes. A 5m x 2.5m roller screen was provided to display projected images. Tom Lambert, project manager at Blackout worked with Delta Sound Inc. (UK) Ltd and Anthony Hall, lighting designer at Essential Lighting to create the magnificent event.
Jim Lambert, project manager, Delta Sound Inc. (UK) Ltd. who had overall responsibility for the event said: "Grant & Anthea take real pride in this event each year and over the four years it has been running they have steadily increased their production standards. From my perspective I needed support companies that were flexible to meet last minute changes and demands put upon us by a very discerning client. Having worked with Blackout on numerous other shows I knew they not only had the drape expertise but also the extensive rigging stock including the vital roller screen and experience to make this event look stunning. As usual, Blackout's service and attention to detail was superb."
Over £500,000 was raised for the two charities.
(Chris Henry)
