Show Support delivered a full video package including screens, cameras, PPU, and crew to Manchester City Football Club’s Thai-themed “One City” party staged in Manchester, England’s Albert Square last Saturday.
Sven-Goran Eriksson and the City team joined thousands of people at the free party thrown by MCFC’s new chairman Dr. Thaksin Shinawatra. The line-up featured Frank Sinatra tribute singer Cole Page and Thai megastar Mai Charoenpura.
Andy Mayneord project managed for Show Support who supplied three 4 x 4 panel LED screens made up from Lighthouse Technologies’ R16. These were placed either side of stage in front of the PA hangs and one center stage and showed a mix of playback material and IMAG images.
Show Support supplied a four-camera PPU for the event, which was coordinated by promoters SJM and a Thai production team comprising personnel from Audio Fusion, J-Crew, and Mr. Team Productions, all based in Bangkok.
The Sony cameras were deployed at FOH and in the pit with one hand-held onstage, and the live mix was cut by Simon Albu and engineered by Nigel French.
The Thai artists brought plenty of energy, color, and sparkle onstage, many appearing with dancers and undertaking extensive routines.
“It was ‘live’ in every sense of the word,” comments Albu. “No rehearsals—just straight into it.” Although a list appeared just as the show went up indicating who was on next and whether they were dancers, singers, or both. He took all this in stride adding, “It’s what we do! Real improvising sometimes brings the best results.” He adds that working with a “Great team from Show Support” helped in making everything run really smoothly.
The screens were rigged on Friday for Saturday’s early evening (and daylight) show and the PPU and cameras were put in on the Saturday.
Playback content for the screens was supplied by the Thai production team on Digi Beta, DVD, and Macintosh PC and also woven into the mix.
The show was produced by SJM and sponsored by MCFC. Star Events supplied the stage, Wigwam the audio, and Lite Alternative the lighting.
The Party followed City’s final pre-season friendly match against Valencia and was enjoyed by over 5,000 onlookers. Free Thai food was available and both Dr. Thaksin and Sven-Goran Eriksson spoke to the amassed crowds. All of MCFC’s recent signings were introduced to a great reception. Show Support is an XL Group company.