EFM's Chris Lumb was flown into Germany to manage a 26-hour load, which was particularly arduous due to the size and complexity of the staging. EFM's managing director Mike Llewellyn and Lisa Ryan were in Dubai ready to receive the unusual consignment and oversee the success of the project. On completion, Chris was flow out a few days later to re-pack the equipment and get everything safely back to base. The German production companies have expressed their admiration of the extemporary English efficiency, resulting in new accounts being opened.
Llewellyn explained: "There was a great deal of outsized pieces of staging which made the loading of the aircraft complicated. In addition this project was made particularly challenging due to the large amount of pyro being moved. Our contacts in air-chartering enabled us to save our clients a considerable amount of money by successfully chartering a single aircraft that could carry all of fireworks and equipment."
In Dubai at the event General Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and UAE Defence Minister addressed an invited VIP audience in front of the Gate Building, praising the achievements and socio-economic impact of the DIFC. After more positive words from Dr Omar Bin Sukaiman, the evening began with a dazzling display of fireworks and lasers lighting up the Gate. Bearing the theme 'Notes to Success', the evening culminated in a giant revolving stage featuring the 70-piece Czech National Symphony Orchestra and one of opera's leading performers, Andrea Bocelli.
(Lee Baldock)
