Star Rigging, part of the newly-formed Star Events Group, was hired to create a structure for the show to centre around and provide an impressive setting for both the live and television audience, working alongside other contractors and the production team. Star Rigging's Phil Broad and Production North's Steve Levitt worked closely to realize Disney's ideas, developing a flying bungee stunt, which involved three aerial dancers from Cirque Bijou appearing from above the set and descending into a blaze of pyrotechnics.
Star Rigging brought all elements together, producing the detailed rigging plot required by the venue. The company provided risk assessments for the platform, all the rigging motors, rigged the entire show, and fabricated a bespoke 32ft by 8ft platform, rigged above the lights in the roof of the venue. The three performers and three assistants had to be on the platform before the audience entered the auditorium, so there was even a sofa on the platform for their comfort.
Broad explained the work behind the stunt: "Health and safety of the performers in the air and those below on the stage was a prime consideration, so we built the platform with plenty of room to move around on, with handrails, and there was a fall arrest system and lifelines. Our staff were on-hand to ensure the performers understood how to operate the system and get the best out of it for their performance."
Steve Levitt commented on his experience of working at the Disney Awards: "The major difference for this show from a big four-month tour is that all the preparation, the load-in and execution has to be spot on - we only get one shot! This is why it is important to have experienced and professional contractors working at the event, such as Star Rigging, as they bring the show together and make sure everything is created perfectly."
(Lee Baldock)
