The stage is more than just a physical space for an event, but an element to set the tone and manage viewers’ experience. Every event should have an individually configured stage, regardless of whether the audience is online or offline. Light, layout, colors, shape, and much more affect how the audience perceives the event and how the performers or speakers interact with their environment.
Effective design can strengthen the narrative and theme of the event, while poor execution can undermine it. Stage designers are the key professionals to rely on to craft the perfect settings and dressings for your event. By collaborating with decorators, lighting professionals, and sound designers, the stage designer finds the perfect formula tailored to that specific event.
Hence, no one-size-fits-all solution means each event has its specific demands. For example, a corporate event might benefit from a sleek, modern stage design to convey professionalism, while a music festival may call for something more immersive and bold. However, there are key factors to consider when designing a stage.
Stick to the theme
The stage is all about creating an experience that draws the audience in for entertainment events. Naturally, the stage should reflect the theme and narrative of the event, from props to lighting and even the performers’ interactions with the space. Whether it’s a concert, gaming show, or award ceremony, each detail builds the atmosphere and keeps the audience invested.
“When designing entertainment events, it’s crucial to understand the format and specifics of the event. For example, an awards ceremony requires a particular approach to stage design and audience zoning. Close collaboration with the event’s scriptwriters is essential from the earliest stages, as the interaction between participants dictates the stage’s requirements.
In contrast, a solo artist’s concert offers an entirely different creative scope, expanding the possibilities. Here, preparation involves studying the artist’s career, style, habits, stage presence, worldview, and the core message behind the show,” shares Ihor Chupryna, stage designer at WePlay Studios.
Make it work together
Audio design differs between outdoor and indoor events, and the props and set for an art exhibition can’t be the same as those for an esports tournament. Lighting also depends heavily on the action taking place on stage. While each of these elements requires specific attention, the true power of stage design lies in how they work together. Ensure that the different components complement one another to amplify the overall experience.
“As a stage designer, I develop the initial concept, basically jumping to the project from the first moments. Then, I begin collaborating with various departments to ensure that each element, based on my concept, fits. The next step is project planning and 3D modeling of the stage, along with discussions with technical and engineering teams to ensure feasibility. This time-consuming process is an effective method for ensuring consistency throughout the project,” explains Ihor.
Weave tech into
Entertainment stage design often goes beyond traditional design elements to respond to viewers’ expectations. The use of tech is aimed at creating moments of awe, ensuring the audience feels deeply connected to the event. Cutting-edge technology like Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), and other interactive elements can help surprise and wow the audience, fully captivating their attention.
“New technologies open up so many great possibilities for creative expression. It allows designers to share more innovative solutions and find new ways to delight audiences. Plus, thanks to advancements, it’s becoming much easier to visualize and communicate ideas. The whole production process is speeding along, making it easier for everyone to understand an artist’s vision at each stage of show development,” says Ihor Chupryna.
Prioritize comfort
Undoubtedly, the stage needs to look stunning, still it must also be practical. There should be enough space for the crew to move around without tripping over things, and performers should easily get on and off the stage. When everything is well-organized and works smoothly behind the scenes, it keeps the show flowing without any disruptions.
“The set must be practical, accommodating diverse sound and lighting configurations. Most importantly, it should be designed with the audience in mind, featuring a well-thought-out infrastructure, inclusivity, and compliance with all safety regulations. Only after addressing these practical aspects can creative elements come into play. A stage designer is not just an artist but, in many ways, an engineer,” sums up Ihor Chupryna.
Rethinking challenges
If a designer’s idea relies heavily on ideal conditions, its chances of implementation are greatly reduced. Designers often adjust their ideas to fit time frames and other constraints. However, adjustment does not mean a loss of creativity or quality.
“I remember a case when our company worked on a project with extremely tight deadlines and many restrictions. We faced logistical challenges due to safety measures, and traditional venues didn’t suit our needs.
But instead of seeing these as obstacles, we turned them into the foundation of a unique concept. We chose an unsuitable long exhibition hall and transformed it with a huge team of set designers and builders. We created a whole city that looked far away from traditional stage setups but perfectly fit our vision. The physical set blended seamlessly with a stunning virtual world, merging real and digital elements. The venue’s awkward layout, instead of limiting us, actually enhanced our creativity, making the show feel more immersive and one-of-a-kind,” remembers Ihor Chupryna.
Designing entertainment events requires a deep understanding of the format and its specifics. Each genre — whether sports shows, theatrical productions, immersive experiences, or television formats — has its own unique characteristics, rules, and limitations. That’s why designers approach every event differently, especially in the entertainment industry. Continuously learning, rethinking their approach, and honing skills are critical to delivering outstanding design solutions.
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