UK - Chase and Status headed out on their ambitious live tour across some of the UK’s biggest arenas with a ROE video screen and MoveKet automation package from PRG UK.
After the release of 2024’s Backbone catapulted Chase and Status back into the cultural zeitgeist, the highly anticipated UK tour has seen the duo go from strength to strength. Bringing a high-energy rave to arenas this size requires something special for the production.
At the Co-op Live in Manchester, the clear centre piece of the stage is the unusual ‘Letterbox’ LED upstage screen, supported by MoveKet automation to reveal the band as the show kicks off and create dynamic movement throughout the set. ROE Vanish V8T panels were used to build the 27m wide x 4m deep structure, chosen for the strong colour depth, and the 50% transparency means the lighting can be integrated seamlessly as the screen moves and adds more variety to the looks throughout the show.
“It’s a rave basically, it’s a drum and bass concert,” says Steve Jones, crew chief. “The video content is key and really leans into that for this show. Having the blow through screen looks incredible with the lighting package and lasers behind it.”
Along with the upstage screen are two 3m x 5m IMAG screens supported by a simple but effective camera package consisting of a Grass Valley Karrera system with four Sony System cameras; two using Fuji long lenses at FOH and two pit cameras with wide-angle lenses.
Another feature on this is the six floating trusses over the crowd, powered by the MoveKet automation system. Throughout the show they rise up in a striking v shape then lower right over the crowd’s heads, fully immersing the room in the spectacle.
The show was designed by Sam Tozer and Vision Factory and production managed by Mike Clegg. They are supported by a tight knit crew, many of which have been with the band for years. With such a labour of love, it was vital for the team to have suppliers they could trust to deliver each element of the show.
“I’ve been happy with every tour I’ve done with PRG and this one is no different,” continues Jones. “Nothing’s a problem for them, they understand the needs of this line of work and I know I can pick up the phone to them any time of day and someone will help me. The equipment and engineering are fantastic. The service both in prep and on tour is always excellent.”
