The idea was to create a festival style atmosphere with two different stages, but all within an indoor environment. To achieve this, Blackout worked closely with Andy Redhead, the main production manager for SJM Concerts, who was responsible for the overall design and layout. The main area which featured the stages and the catering points was deliberately left open to create an atmosphere where people could sit at the bars and watchthe bands. The event was visited by 26,000 people over the weekend, and among the acts appearing was My Chemical Romance, and Lost Prophets.
Kevin Monks, Blackout's project manager said that attention to detail was important. "We enclosed the stage areas, and then for the seating we hung drapes from the mother grid and first floor rails to give the whole venue a tented feel. At the same time we managed to mask light spill from the bars and catering outlets to create a unique atmosphere for this indoor space." This was especially important as this was the first time such an event had been staged without secondary safety barriers.
Blackout and Earls Court are no strangers, and technical manager for Earls Court Olympia, Q. Willis says: "Blackout did a fantastic job. We have worked with them in the past including on The Brits, and only use Blackout to do our draping. They make it work for you!"
(Chris Henry)
