LONDON – Working alongside creative director, Oli Metcalfe, as well as production manager, Chris Vaughan, Tait provided both custom and rental elements for Muse’s stadium tour which opened recently in the United Kingdom.
More details from Tait (www.taittowers.com):
Tait provided a large 61 meter by 17.6 meter rolling main stage for the production, with a thrust extending out 26 meters to the B-stage. The main stage and thrust were finished with specially treated marine wood, paired with a quartz treatment to prevent water damage and provide texture. Two key performance areas were finished with a high gloss treatment for performer movement.
Tait also provided two custom designed technical bunkers with an integrated water protection plumbing system. Housing the backline and sound technicians, the bunkers kept the technicians close to the band but out of audience view during performances. Two FOH bunkers were also manufactured by Tait, built with aluminum framework and waterproof PVC coated polyester. The bunkers were four meters wide by 2.5 meters high with retractable roofs and adjustable height legs.
Sixteen removable pyrotechnic effect platforms were built and attached to the main stage, to hold CO2 jets for the pyrotechnic team. Six custom made decks were also produced with central holes, to hold recessed lighting elements. High End Systems’ Techno Arc lights were positioned on a shelf within these recessed decks, and finished with a transparent plastic dome which raises above the stage surface for water protection.
Tait also supplied a 24 meter long catwalk which extends out into the audience from the main stage to the B stage. The catwalk was integrated into the mainstage apron with custom designed transition decks to determine the fixed angle of the integrated ramp section. The support structure of the ramp contained sets of custom designed legs at fixed heights produced specifically for the tour, to ensure the ramp angle remains consistent across all shows.
A key part of the stadium design concerned weather proofing the performance area. Tait built a large custom waterproof canopy which covered the main stage performance area. Made with a combination of aluminum and steel frames with an integrated PVC skin, the canopy was 6.7 meters long and 3.4 meters high, with integrated plumbing so that water could drain away from the stage area. The canopy was also finished with a custom scenic silver paint.
The project was a collaborative effort between Tait’s U.S. and European offices, with a build timeframe of five weeks.
