What difficulties exist between stage design and live technical assembly in large shows?

The world of live entertainment poses countless challenges when it comes to translating a creative vision into a real, functional technical experience. These kinds of reflections were the focus of several conversations shared during the Stonex Open Days held on April 1 and 2, 2025, where the spotlight was placed on some of the major issues of concern to industry professionals. From lighting to stage mechanics, the challenges are numerous, and the key lies in finding a balance between the artistic and what is possible and safe.

Among the most notable talks of the Open Days estuvo “And how do we set this up?”, the second day's round table with CaCo García, lighting designer and programmer and pablo moreno, a rigging and stage mechanics specialist and also director of Rock and Rigging. The discussion focused on the challenges that arise when trying to realize a stage design from a technical perspective. During this discussion, we discussed his collaboration on the previous edition of the Coca-Cola Music Experience in 2024, where an honest and technical conversation arose about the necessary balance between the artistic and the structural, mechanical, and safety aspects.

Creativity vs. reality: the challenges of stage production

Photo: CaCo García

One of the fundamental axes of the debate was coordination between the lighting designer and the stage mechanics team. Although both share the goal of giving shape to a creative idea, they often face limitations that require negotiation, adaptation, and, above all, fluid communication from the beginning of the project.

One of the most frequently mentioned aspects was the issue of weight. Designs often require complex, heavy structures that must adapt to the load-bearing capacity of the stage space. In these cases, The joint work between design and technology allows the proposal to be adjusted without compromising either aesthetics or safety.

Another common challenge is the mobility of stage elements, such as luminaires, screens or suspended structures that must move or change position during the show. When the design includes these types of movements, the coordination between the control systems and the mechanical infrastructure must be absolutely precise to ensure both visual fluidity and the safety of the whole. Therefore, during the set-up, Testing becomes a critical phase: They allow you to verify that each movement is safe, that there are no physical interferences between elements, and that everything responds as planned. This phase requires detailed planning and meticulous technical programming, with each movement calculated down to the last millimeter.

Another key aspect that was discussed was the security, in stage mechanics. At this point, Pablo Moreno, an undisputed leader in the sector, was highlighted. He emphasized the importance of always working within the framework of current regulations and with approved equipment. Because, beyond spectacular design, the safety of the equipment and people must always come first.

To achieve this, it is essential to know and apply regulations such as the UNE-EN 17206 on machinery for stage applications, as well as other European and national directives regulating suspended structures, mobile loads, or the use of motors. These regulations can be consulted through organizations such as AENOR - Spanish National Standards Body, INSST or professional associations in the sector.

Photo: CaCo García

Open discussions on assembly, design and safety

One of the most enriching moments of this session came when the floor was opened for questions to the public. Far from being a formal closing, it became a natural extension of the debate, providing new perspectives and experiences from those who are also active in the sector.

One of the issues that generated the most interest was the need to use equipment with IP65 or IP66 protection at outdoor events. With the arrival of warmer weather and the start of festival season, this concern becomes especially relevant. The experience shared by several attendees confirmed that, even though the calendar marks summer, no one is immune to facing an unexpected storm or adverse environmental conditions.

Photo: CaCo García

Working with equipment that's resistant to water, dust, and humidity not only guarantees the continuity of the event, but also protects technical staff and reduces operating costs due to breakdowns, for example. It's a technical decision that makes the difference between improvising against the clock or following the plan with ease.

Another interesting intervention revolved around the communication between the different profiles involved in the creation of a show. The importance of establishing a clear dialogue from the outset between the lighting designer, the promoter, and/or the artist was one of the most shared ideas. When the concept is well-defined from the outset and everyone involved is aligned, it's much easier to translate that vision into a viable and safe technical reality.

This final part of the talk not only allowed for further learning, but also created a space for listening and collaboration, reminding us that the sector thrives when experiences are shared with respect and curiosity.