The client had an idea to recreate the atmosphere of his favourite nightclub, 'B.E.D' (located in Miami, USA), in a marquee in the grounds on their house. MLsoundadvice manager Gareth Jones originated the overall design based on obtaining descriptive 'key-words' from the client on their likes, dislikes and interests.
Drawing on his creative side, Jones's design solution included multi-level raised areas that turned into, and focused the guests' look towards the stage. The areas included a discrete 'bed' VIP area for the hosts, a second VIP area for family with contemporary furniture and a circular pink bar, all flanking a chequered dance floor. His technical expertise generated a real nightclub vibe, complete with a stage for live entertainment and DJ with state of the art sound and lighting systems.
The evening began for guests with canapés and Champagne in a reception area of the marquee adorned with images of the hostess. It was only when a spectacular reveal introduced them to the hostess and the (previously hidden) 'nightclub' area that the party really swung into action. ML Executive's Gary Marks oversaw the live performances and following the 'reveal' he stage managed dynamic live performances by the Pasadena's, Jacqui Graham, Oddesy, George McRae, Heatwave, the Real Thing and the DJ, ensuring the atmosphere stayed at fever pitch through to the early hours of the morning.
MLsoundadvice specialise in the design and rental of corporate sound systems. The design reflected their experience with a zoned system, carefully time-aligned to deliver sound evenly through the main venue and subsidiary areas (including a 50m entrance 'runway' structure). Their awareness that space is always at a premium at many events led to them using their new Yamaha M7CL digital mixing console, which allowed the front of house engineer (Oz Bagnall) to quickly move between the different acts from behind a console only 2m wide.
LXco's Mark Wheatley, the lighting designer, created a superb feel from his Avolites pearl console. With a 3m diameter mirror ball to reflect moving and generic lighting over the dance floor, Wheatley also programmed a series of looks for the different bands. In line with the clients request that the 'club' changed it's base colour through the course of the evening he deployed a number of LED 'Chroma Q Colour Blocks' on the stage and central trusses.
Jones commented: "It is invigorating to be part of a group of companies that together can deliver all of the client's aspirations as a single point solution. Drawing on a wealth of technical and creative expertise all effectively 'in-house' makes for seamless, co-ordinated event, and a delighted customer!"
(Chris Henry)
