CLIENT
Betty Productions
LOCATION
Baku Olympic Stadium, Baku, Azerbaijan
YEAR
2017
PROJECT TYPE
Opening and Closing Ceremonies
Scope
Stadium sound system design and show control integration for large-scale ceremonies
Services Provided
- →Stadium loudspeaker system design
- →Immersive audio system integration
- →Signal distribution design
- →Show control and replay coordination
- →Systems engineering support
The Brief
Auditoria were engaged by Betty Productions to design the audio systems for the opening and closing ceremonies of the 2017 Islamic Solidarity Games, staged at Baku Olympic Stadium.
The project followed Auditoria’s earlier work on the European Games Ceremonies in the same venue in 2015, meaning the team already had a detailed understanding of the stadium and its technical infrastructure.
For the Islamic Solidarity Games, a large stage was constructed at the centre of the stadium with a substantial projection surface forming the back wall of the set. The production combined large-scale visuals, performance elements and aerial choreography, with sound playing an important role in guiding the audience’s attention across the stadium.
The Challenge
The scale of the stage and projection surface introduced several design considerations. Much of the visual storytelling originated from the large screen at the rear of the stage, meaning the sound needed to align closely with the projected content.
At the same time, performers and flying elements moved across the stadium space, requiring audio that could follow the action and help direct the audience’s focus.
The system therefore needed to provide stadium-wide coverage while also supporting more localised sound sources within the stage structure.
Our Approach
The main stadium reinforcement system was built around L-Acoustics K2 line arrays, providing coverage across the seating bowl.
To support the projection surface and stage action, additional loudspeaker arrays were integrated into the back wall of the stage itself. This allowed elements of the soundtrack to originate directly from the visual content, helping align sound with the large projection surface and stage activity.
Spatial placement of sound was used carefully throughout the show to help the audience follow moments of action, particularly during sequences involving aerial performers and large-scale visual effects.
Signal distribution across the system was handled via Optocore, with DiGiCo consoles supporting the control environment and Fairlight systems used for playback. Shure wireless microphones and in-ear monitoring systems supported the performers.
Technical Highlights:
Audio Design
L-Acoustics K2 line array loudspeakers
Integrated stage loudspeaker arrays within projection structure
DiGiCo consoles
Optocore signal distribution network
Shure wireless microphones and in-ear monitoring
Show Control Design
Fairlight playback systems
The Results
The ceremonies were delivered successfully at Baku Olympic Stadium, combining large-scale projection, performance and aerial choreography.
The integration of loudspeakers within the stage structure allowed sound to originate from key visual elements, helping guide the audiences attention to specific action on stage and in the air.
Building on experience from the earlier European Games ceremonies in the same venue, the system supported both the stadium audience and broadcast production throughout the event.
Acknowledgements
Our Client
Betty Productions
Our Team
Scott Willsallen – Audio Designer
Richard Sharratt – Front of House Mix Engineer
Justin Arthur – Systems Engineer
Luis Miranda – Replay Operator
Steve Logan – Replay Operator
Our Supplier
Agora
Technical Designers
WonderWorks
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