Taking place in the grounds of Harewood House, MAMMA MIA! Under the Stars was a pilot series of open-air experiences, bringing the now iconic Greek island romance to the English countryside. Having supported MAMMA MIA! the tour for over 17 years – by supplying lighting and trussing packages – following the news of the tour’s open-air debut, PRG UK worked closely with the show’s team to translate the show to its new surroundings.
The combined package of lighting and video captured the original vibrance of the stage show while complimenting the exposed elements of the venue and delivered additional video and camera support for its 1,400 strong socially distanced audiences.
The rig included custom white Icon Stages and GLP X4L fixtures among the rest of the lighting system. Due to the lack of FOH in the grounds, this was supplemented with additional fixtures plus an audience lighting system, designed by Associate Lighting Designer, Andrew Voller. The rig was installed under the supervision of Production Electrician, Martin Chisnall and the show was operated by the touring Chief Electrician, Freddie Marlow. For the show’s video, PRG delivered two 7.8m by 4.2m IMAG LED screens, which sat either side of the stage using ROE Visuals Magic Cube MC-7H panels.
PRG also suppled a camera system for the show’s run, including a Blackmagic ATEM switcher, three Sony HXC-100s, three Conon 86X Long Lens and three Gnat minicams.
Theatre Sales Director, Peter Marshall said: “It was great to work with Producer Nick Grace and the team once again, we were involved with the original production lit by Howard Harrison and many subsequent versions and it was especially exciting to work with this new format of this epic show.”
Ahead of the limited run, MAMMA MIA! Creator and Producer, Judy Craymer said: “It’s going to be wonderful to experience the original musical literally under the stars in the beautiful grounds of Harewood House. MAMMA MIA! lends itself perfectly to the outdoors and what better way to leave lockdown than to be transported to our sunny Greek idyll.”
The wider team comprised Associate Producers & General Managers, Nick Grace Management; Production Manager, Matt Towell; Lighting Supervisor, Martin Chisnall; Lighting Designer, Howard Harrison; Associate Lighting Designer, Andrew Voller; Chief Electrician, Freddie Marlow; Lead LED Technician, Stevie Marr; Video Engineer, Jordon McMahon and Video Director, Jon Shrimpton.
