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Producing AV for Events, Sports and Concerts

Three deferents scenes. First is a long with tables displaying a logo on the screen, second with a hockey player with a red light background, and third is a stage with colorful lights and with chairs down the stage.

While the end goal of each job is the same – a spectacular visual product and a happy client – working within different show categories can vary greatly in terms of logistics.

Media Stage has produced shows all over the live events spectrum for the past 30 years, and in doing so we have learned many similarities and differences between industries. This blog will focus specifically on corporate events, sports and concert settings.

Corporate meetings are unique because they are very theme specific. Sometimes it is even the responsibility of our staff to brainstorm and come up with the theme and logo for the event. Many times, there are RFPs involved in a lengthy and in-depth bidding process. This involves laying out CADs of the venue, creating visual renderings of a proposed set design and any other scenic elements to go along with the central concept.

Once on set and in execution phase, the team builds everything from the ground up and strikes it down immediately after the event. Even just coordinating and setting up the control area to call and run the show is a main factor to plan for ahead of time, while in other industries the venue and control is often more permanent.

Producing AV for sports is unique because of its quick pace. Many times there are broadcast partners to work alongside, in addition to satisfying any additional needs of the team and their staff. Media Stage recently worked Media Day and Opening Night for the Florida Panthers hockey team, providing the lighting for their set and players’ tunnel. This was a perfect example because our techs had to work with the set designers on site and make sure the different equipment (robotic cameras, lasers, etc.), all worked in conjunction to achieve the perfect shot.

Concerts also present industry-specific challenges, much of which are based on permitting and safety. There are thorough trainings involved for riggers and staging supervisors on safety regulations while working with roof structures. The locations are constantly changing and because shows are frequently held outdoors, weather can also become an obstacle. Sometimes something as simple as communication can complicate procedures, since there can be inconsistencies between the names and descriptions of gear. And, of course, there is a personality element when working with performers and musicians; the staff has to be mindful of any riders or special requests they have centered on the vision of their show.

Thanks for reading! Check back in December for our next post.