Rehearsals had taken place over three weeks in June at Capital FM Arena in Nottingham, another venue where Showsec is the contracted security partner. With huge media interest producers demanded the specifics of the show, including the plot, remained a closely-guarded secret. Showsec was engaged to ensure the venue remained a closed set throughout rehearsals, with only members of the production crew and cast having access.
Prior to the opening night an audience of 4,000 guests were specially invited to the Manchester MEN Arena; a final opportunity to fine-tune aspects of the production and ensure the venue staff understood how Batman Live differed from other shows.
Tim Chambers, Showsec's project manager said, "This was as much a rehearsal for us as it was for the cast. We had been through detailed planning and consultation with the venue and show's management, so everyone was aware of the high standards of visitor experience expected.
"One of our highly experienced supervisors, Dave Middleton, suggested an improvement to the seating layout in order to maximise that viewer experience around the stage that covers a lot of the arena floor.
"This advice was taken on board by the venue and production team, with the layout being changed in time for the premier. The forward thinking, proactive approach of one of our supervisors ensured any potential issues were resolved before the show went live to the public, with suggestions coming from supervisors and stewards alike."
Showsec also provided experienced SIA licensed professionals to secure the premier's afterparty at the Manchester Cathedral, which was given a Gotham City make-over for 600 VIP guests.
(Jim Evans)
