NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE – It is hailed as “Country music’s biggest night,” but Kelsea Ballerini was up bright and early for a performance on Good Morning America to kick off the festivities. Bandit Lites supplied the lighting package for the outdoor stage that overlooked the city’s skyline and Nissan Stadium as millions tuned in to hear Ballerini and find out the first two winners of the 51st Annual CMA Awards.
With a lighting design by Mark Carver and LD Jeff Gregson, Ballerini took the stage to serenade those who had braved the early morning. With her sophomore album Unapologetically climbing the charts and having just received the ASCAP Vanguard Award, Ballerini treated the crowd to renditions of the title track and the song “Roses.”
Even with the overcast daylight skies, Carver and Gregson were able to craft dynamic looks that translated both on television and for the rooftop audience. Bandit Lites provided Martin MAC Auras, Clay Paky B-EYE K20s and Ayrton MagicBlades along with a grandMA 2 Lite console for control. Bandit’s crew was comprised of Andy Knighton, Sarah Euker and Scott Wesson along with support from Project Manager Matt King.
In addition to performing, Ballerini also took to the stage to announce the winners for Music Video of the Year and Musical Event of the Year, which went to “It Ain’t My Fault” by Brothers Osborne and “Funny How Time Slips Away” by the late Glen Campbell and Willie Nelson respectively.
“I always look forward to working the GMA event with Mark Carver and Maria Stefanopoulos at ABC and it impresses me that they always seem to come up with a refreshing look and location each year,” said Bandit’s Vice President Mike Golden. “We typically only have a few days to review the design and put forward a plan of execution, but under Marks calm leadership it always comes out looking extremely polished and practiced. My hat’s off to the entire production staff that come together each year to bring this unique event to life as a great way to kick off the start of the CMA Awards.”
About Bandit Lites, Inc.
Bandit Lites is a global leader in the entertainment lighting marketplace. From touring productions to fixed installations, Bandit Lites has a full staff of highly trained professionals to deal with all types of lighting needs. Bandit’s global presence will insure seamless transitions no matter where your next show takes you. More information available at www.BanditLites.com