UK - Star Rigging provided the rigging requirements for Westlife's Turnaround tour, to ensure the group could incorporate their latest stunt to get them close to their fans. The production focal point of the show was an aluminium catwalk lowered from the ceiling, on which the band performed four numbers over the heads of the audience. Star Rigging ensured the catwalk was rigged and lowered safely at each of the shows. The complete catwalk was 120ft long and incorporated an aluminium mesh walkway with a circular stage at the end, with Perspex flooring allowing the crowds to see the band throughout their performance. During the show, the giant catwalk was lowered out of the arena roofs to a 3m height above the heads of a delighted audience.

Star Rigging's Phil Broad designed the rigging plots and programmed the company's Ibex motion control system, ever mindful of the safety of the concert-goers. With more than 250 connections to the 21 motors, the Ibex's safety system meant the slightest glitch with any motor was identified and the whole system would come safely to a halt. Star Rigging's Mil Rakij controlled the system throughout the show and programmed the motors, which smoothly lowered the walkway, whilst constantly monitoring the movement via his laptop.

Production manager Steve Levitt, of Productions North, commented: "This year we have had a tighter tour schedule with matinée performances included in the run, which is great for the fans but has increased the workload for the production team. Star Rigging has delivered, along with the rigging requirements, the reassurance of a high standard of work and safety checks before every show."

(Lee Baldock)


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