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Building a Festival Stage: Prep to Tear Down
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Building a Festival Stage: Prep to Tear Down

Setup and Gear Overview for a Live Show

Introduction to the Artist's Vibe

  • The artist expresses confidence in their rising popularity, mentioning how they are often approached by fans who recognize them.
  • They describe their unique blend of new school vibes with an old soul, emphasizing their financial success and commitment to their craft.

Technical Setup for the Show

  • A detailed overview of the technical setup is provided, including video gear like a PC, ATEM 2 image switcher, and various converters.
  • The Allen & Heath console is highlighted as a MIDI controller for video management, showcasing its motorized faders used for programming.

Lighting and Visual Effects

  • Discussion on using a visualizer alongside lighting equipment; this aids in programming before the actual show.
  • The Grand MA3 light system is introduced as the primary control for all lighting during the performance.

Camera Setup and Stage Design

  • Mention of PTZ cameras set up to send signals into another room; additional Blackmagic cameras will be used for live DJ shots.
  • Description of stage fixtures includes Mavericks big lights at the front and washers across the top, ensuring diverse lighting effects.

Wiring and Control Systems

  • Explanation of how lighting control is managed through an Alation Art-Net node that simplifies wiring from front-of-house to stage.
  • Brian discusses operating around 40 moving lights without pre-programming, relying on busking style during performances.

Synchronization Between Video and Lighting

  • Brian explains his ability to control LED walls in sync with lighting changes made by Brandon, enhancing coordination during shows.
  • Real-time adjustments between video playback and lighting scenes are emphasized as crucial for maintaining flow during performances.

Final Preparations Before Show Day

  • The team wraps up programming efforts while preparing to transition everything on-site efficiently before the festival begins.

Video Production Setup Overview

Video Control and Equipment

  • The setup includes multiple iMac screens for flexible shot changes, allowing the operator to display different angles of the DJ and other visuals.
  • Utilizes MIDI controllers with Mad Mapper software for video mapping, alongside ATEM software and Pro Presenter for video playback during events.

Audio Management

  • Front of house audio control is established, with monitor systems set up at stage right for artists and DJs.
  • Blackmagic cameras are employed, including Ursa Broadcast G2 and a micro cinema camera for crowd shots; a GoPro captures DJ performances.

Real-Time Graphics Integration

  • The DJ shot is processed through Mad Mapper, enabling real-time cropping of visuals to focus on specific elements like turntables.
  • A Deck Link card in the computer allows seamless integration of video feeds into Mad Mapper for dynamic visual effects.

Backstage Operations

Communication Systems

  • A communication system enables band members to coordinate effectively while monitoring their mixes from front of house to monitor world.

Stage Setup Details

  • The stage features CDJs and various equipment brought by talent; a full-scale GoPro provides additional perspectives on mixing activities.

Video Wall Specifications

  • The video wall consists of 24 panels arranged in a curved structure (5-degree curve), enhancing visibility across the venue.
  • Constructed using eight ten-foot sticks of bolt truss, ensuring stability without excessive structural support.

Artist Facilities and Power Management

Backstage Amenities

  • A clean multi-view TV setup backstage displays various camera angles without labels, aiding crew coordination during performances.

Power Supply Considerations

  • Generators are linked to ensure continuous power supply; if one fails, the load shifts automatically to the other generator.

Artist Preparation Area

Stage Setup and Technical Insights

Overview of Stage Storage and Design

  • The area under the stage is primarily used for storage, housing road cases and ensuring cables are not crushed during operations.
  • The stage dimensions are 40 feet wide (5 panels wide by 8 panels deep), designed with alternating legs for structural integrity while maximizing open space underneath.
  • Height clearance under the stage is about three to four feet, with other stages allowing more height for talent stations and movement.

Audio Setup and Performance Logistics

  • A DNB audio rig was utilized effectively, providing sufficient sound levels for performances; the DJ setup was strategically placed on a riser to facilitate band changeovers.
  • The DJ's position was adjusted later in the day to avoid congestion on stage due to multiple performers, highlighting logistical planning in live events.

Technical Control of Lighting and Video

  • Brian manages color control over the video wall using Grandma software via ArtNet, demonstrating integration between lighting control systems.
  • Mad Mapper software is employed to map channels for dimmer master RGB settings, showcasing advanced technical setups in live performance environments.
Video description

This was the second Stage of the festival, Main stage was much larger but we had the creative freedom to do really whatever we wanted on our stage which we really appreciated and we think it turned out really well given our budget. The festival had 25,000 people total and our stage tent was 80ft wide by 150 feet deep. perimeter was 10ft tall with peak of tent at around 24 feet. D&B Audio Rig, Mad Mapper, Pro Presenter and Black Magic Atem 2 M/E for video. GrandMA 3 Lite for lighting. Mad Mapper Computer had RTX 6000 and 256gb of ram all custom built from VFX Technologies! I do Live AV Production Full Time as a freelancer with everything from planning, designing, site visits and workflows through the actual setup, wiring, running and sometimes tear down of the event. Contact: consultationswithbrandon@gmail.com Drop your questions in the comments and I'll try to answer them as I can.