This was the hottest ticket in town, quite literally with the soaring temperatures in the intimate venue packed with 2,100 fans. The band showed why they're still at the top with a set comprised of classic tunes spanning the bands four decades inter-dispersed with new material from the soon to be released Wire & Glass rock opera.
Leeds University recently appointed Showsec to manage crowds at all of the shows at the famous Student Union Refectory venue and associated events (such as the recent Tetley Hall Ball) for at least the coming two years. Showsec worked at the venue through the nineties until four years ago.
Leeds University entertainment manager Steve Keeble says: "We are delighted to be working with Showsec, the university wanted to improve the service, we sought out showsec and they have delivered a high level of service. The Who show was a great example of an event that benefited from their vast experience in the music world. Not only was it filled to capacity, a fair proportion of the audience were VIP's and guests, so it was essential that we offered them good customer services and Showsec supported us in delivering that."
Showsec's area manager for Leeds and Sheffield Bryan Lewis and main supervisor John Hadland, working his 1,500th show for the company, managed a team of 40, including 21 SIA licensed staff and a pit team. With the expectant capacity crowd arriving early, and queuing around the venue, Showsec and the venue management executed a carefully planned ingress to get them all in quickly and safely.
Once inside, the temperatures rose to match the 1970's legendary concert with a great atmosphere maintained throughout the gig, until Showsec staff cleared the sweaty fans back into the fresh air having enjoyed a night they'll cherish for ever.
(Chris Henry)
