Site Production
1. Site Planning
- Venue Selection: Choose a location suitable for the size of the event, audience, and type of performance (e.g., outdoor field, arena, or park).
- Layout Design: Develop a map or blueprint for the event site that includes:
- Stages: The primary performance areas.
- Crowd Areas: General audience zones, VIP sections, and seating/standing arrangements.
- Backstage Areas: Space for artists, crew, equipment storage, and dressing rooms.
- Vendor Areas: Food stalls, merchandise stands, and other concession locations.
- Sanitation & Facilities: Placement of toilets, handwashing stations, and waste disposal.
2. Infrastructure Setup
- Stages: Construction of one or more stages based on the scale of the event. This involves:
- Stage platforms and rigging for lights, speakers, and props.
- Audio systems designed for optimal sound quality across the venue.
- Lighting systems for both artistic effects and visibility.
- Video screens for larger events so all attendees can see the performers.
- Power Supply: Arrange for adequate electrical supply, including generators and backup power systems.
- Tents & Shelters: Installation of temporary structures for ticketing, VIP areas, bars, and artist dressing rooms.
- Fencing & Barriers: To manage crowd flow, ensure safety, and separate backstage from audience areas.
3. Safety & Compliance
- Security & Emergency Services: Coordinate with security companies and local law enforcement. Ensure medical and fire response services are on standby.
- Permits & Licensing: Secure the necessary permits for noise, public assembly, alcohol, and vendor operations.
- Crowd Control: Implement entry/exit strategies, manage audience movement, and ensure safety measures like barricades and clear pathways.
- Health & Safety Measures: Ensure compliance with fire codes, safe equipment setup, weather preparedness, and emergency evacuation procedures.
4. Logistics & Operations
- Artist & Crew Management: Organize transportation, accommodations, and schedules for performers and staff.
- Load-In & Load-Out: Schedule the installation (load-in) and dismantling (load-out) of all equipment, including stage elements, sound systems, and vendor setups.
- Transport & Parking: Manage transportation for guests, artists, and equipment, ensuring adequate parking for vehicles and access for deliveries.
- Waste Management: Set up adequate trash collection and recycling systems.
5. Technology & Connectivity
- Sound Engineering: Ensure that the sound system is designed and tuned to the space for optimal acoustic performance.
- Lighting & Visual Effects: Design and program lighting to match the mood of performances.
- Broadcasting & Livestreaming: If required, set up the technology for broadcasting or livestreaming the event for remote audiences.
- Internet & Communications: Provide internet connectivity for event staff, artists, and vendors, along with reliable communication systems (walkie-talkies, radios).
6. Attendee Experience
- Signage & Information Points: Ensure there’s clear and easy-to-read signage throughout the event site.
- Accessibility: Provide adequate facilities and accommodations for people with disabilities (e.g., accessible viewing platforms, bathrooms, and parking).
- Ticketing & Entry: Setup ticket booths, entry points, wristbands or passes, and crowd flow management.
- Food & Beverage: Coordinate vendors and ensure a diverse range of food and drink options.
7. Sustainability & Environmental Considerations
- Green Initiatives: Implement environmentally friendly practices, such as waste reduction, recycling, and minimizing energy use.
- Leave No Trace: Ensure the site is left in its original condition post-event, with effective waste management and site restoration strategies.
8. Post-Event Wrap-Up
- Dismantling: Safely take down stages, tents, and other infrastructure.
- Clean-Up: Organize a thorough clean-up of the site, ensuring no waste or damage remains.
- Review & Evaluation: Conduct a post-event review with staff to evaluate what worked and what could be improved for future events.
Conclusion
Festival and Concert site production is a multi-faceted operation that blends creativity with technical precision, logistics, and safety planning to deliver seamless and enjoyable live experiences. Each element, from stage design to crowd control, must be carefully coordinated to ensure a successful event.