FULL-ON NETWORKING
LIVE SPECIALIST FIRM EXCELS WITH URBAN GAMES AND LEO SAYER
Within a hectic 48 hours, live action production specialist Network Audio provided sound solutions for events ranging from the Sprite Urban Games on Clapham Common, south London, to Leo Sayer's (pictured) first major outing for 12 months at a beach front concert in Worthing.
The Sprite Urban Games was a landmark production for the company, being the first event to devour Network Audio's complete stock of 136 Cray Acoustics loudspeakers. With seven zones to equip and strict noise level limits to meet, this event was never going to be simple. These zones also bridged sporting, lifestyle and musical styles with BMX, skateboarding & break dancing among the features. While there were no specific headlining features, the B-Boy Arena (break dancing) proved to be one of the most popular, hosting European 'battle' competitions.
Network Audio installed four stacks of Cray PL4 (bass) and PL2 (mid/high) cabinets, giving a precise, crisp sound to fit the blend of old skool funk and hip hop, mixed by the arena's DJs. The other arena to attract large crowds was the Street Arena where top flight skaters and BMX riders showed their skills on the purpose built wooden course.
To maximise sound coverage over the large 'Street Arena' area, Network Audio installed both main stacks either side of the DJ booth, as well as Cray CS12 cabinets linked along each side of the arena, enveloping the riders and skaters in music wherever they were on the course. Other arenas included the BMX Flatland arena, the Dirt Jump Arena, the Vert (half pipe BMX and board), the main stage and the Sprite Chill Out tent.
Also on the same weekend, Network Audio provided sound for all three arenas at Manchester's DJ Culture, on this occasion using Turbosound Floodlight, as well as providing a compact installation for corporate clients in Guildford. However, it was the sound production for Leo Sayer's concert in Worthing for an audience of 5,000 that completed the company's major fixture line up.
Both the Sprite Urban Games and Leo Sayer's concert were resounding successes for the company, further strengthening Network Audio's capacity to handle complex multiple events, especially projects with sensitive sound management issues.