Amidst the glam and glitter of a Live Concert, there is a lot of hard work putting the event together for the audience and participants.
Attending live concerts and theatre shows is an event most of us do without thinking about what it takes to host such an event. The amount of work that goes on behind the scene is nothing short of incredible. Before the show begins and long after the audiences have left, our work to keep the show going goes long into nights and weekends. So what goes on behind the scene and how is that different from general freight forwarding.
Entertainment and events logistics is a specialty area where the conditions and considerations are different from handling logistics for general freight. And how is that different? Organizing logistics for a live concert or theatre show requires meticulous planning, coordination, and risk management. So, what are the main considerations?
Weather Considerations
This is something we all can’t control. Because the venues are often space constrained, staging equipment need outdoor placement and that’s when we are at the mercy of mother nature. Building airline ULDs in open air car parks at the Indoor Stadium is not uncommon.
Venue and Set Up
This is one of the most difficult considerations as every venue has its unique operating circumstances. What kinds of access we have? What kinds of trailers and containers are allowed in? How are the road conditions leading to the venue? Site survey and knowing the site conditions are critical.
Artistes & Crew Coordination
Every artiste have their own likes and dislikes and handling an operation around their requirements will differ from one to another. While we might have the freight on hand, we still have to ensure that those equipment can arrive to the venue on time and complete in the exact sequence they want.
Loading In & Loading Out Considerations
Managing transport of bulky sound and lighting systems and organizing efficient parking and shuttle services for trucks, trailers and containers are part and parcel of entertainment logistics. While the production company might have an idea of what and how they want their equipment, we still need to be nimble and flexible to changing sequencing etc. An efficient and trusted partners are what we need to ensure success in this field.
Permits and Legal Compliance
For performances in public areas (see below), the other consideration is the need for permits and legal compliances to handle such events. In some public parks and concert venues, containers are not allowed and access to the staging area is not easily accessible. Special permits might be required to operate cranes on site and operations crew have to be certified to meet the site handling requirements.
The next time you attend a concert or a theatre show or even a sporting event, do say “thank you” to the crew and logistics professionals who make it possible. They will be thrilled to know you value their contribution to making the event a success!