An all-star cast included Ellie Goulding, Tinchy Stryder, The Saturdays, Mark Ronson, N-Dubz and Pixie Lott, who became immersed in a galactic-themed world of comets and asteroids, brought to life by heavy use of CT London's modular Flyer 12mm pixel pitch semi-transparent LED display.
Misty Buckley, who also designed the set for last year's Channel 4 show, said that because of budget restrictions and concept uniformity, this year's event was set to follow a similar design model - until CT London stepped in. "Last year we used MiTRIX to produce vertical solid blocks of colour; but CT were so accommodating that we were able to increase the production values this year, and at the same time make it work within budget, which was amazing. Using the Flyer 12 gave us so much flexibility, and being so lightweight, the modules were really easy to work with."
In addition to CT London, the collaborative process also included Done & Dusted's Rachel French and the show's director Russell Thomas, whose input enabled the concept to be developed into a vibrant show.
Misty used a total of 44sq.m of Flyer 12, designing the individual modules, into a randomly-shaped, abstract backdrop a foil for the centrepiece - a 4m diameter circular projection screen, arrayed with Barco MiSTRIP starbursts.
To create optimum impact from the various media displays - which also included two 25ft x 15ft IMAG rear projection screens, set high up stage left and right - CT London called on the advanced control expertise of Martin Crul. Said CT project manager Paul Gilzene, "Martin's ability to address the screen's software, which handles the mapping geometry, ensured a really excellent presentation."
Feeds were taken from a Catalyst server, live cameras and VT - plus splits from the OB truck. Two Barco FLM HD20 20,000 ANSI lumens projectors delivered content onto the circular projection screen, while further FLM's and Catalysts addressed the other displays.
(Jim Evans)
