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REGIONAL ROUND-UP
ALAN WALKER THE HOODED DJ WOWS SOCIALLY DISTANT FANS AT DUBAI’S COCA-COLA ARENA.
During this strange time where many theatres, venues and event spaces have closed their doors, indoor music events with a live audience are something of a rarity. However, that is exactly what took place at Coca-Cola Arena on 7 January, as British-born Norwegian EDM DJ, Alan Walker treated Dubai-based fans to a set that rolled back the years to a time before the COVID-19 pandemic. Held as part of the Dubai Shopping Festival, organisers Book My Show appointed eclipse Staging Services to deliver a full lighting and LED package, with Laser FX and Stage FX supplying lasers and special effects. While
ME
Alan Walker’s set harked back to a time before COVID-19, the reality of the situation meant that strict restrictions were adhered to during the load-in and the event, with fans remaining socially distanced throughout and all crew fully compliant with eclipse/PSAV’s MeetSAFE programme, including mask wearing, sanitisation, staggered load-in and load-out and a larger FOH area to allow for social distancing. Describing the working relationship with Coca-Cola Arena as “one big team”, eclipse Project Manager, Ghanim Williams recalled how easy it was to work with the venue. “We are well acquainted with the Coca-Cola Arena and
have built a great working relationship with the management and the staff over the years,” he revealed. “It was impressive to see the measures the Coca-Cola Arena had put in place to ensure safety, not only for the guests, but also the staff and visiting staff.” Williams went on to praise his crew for “a flawless setup and show”. He commented: “We loaded in 24 hours before doors opened, yet, we all had a full night’s rest, and the touring team had more time to program than they had requested. This once again displayed our team’s strength and expertise in doing what they love.” The lighting rig consisted of six Robe BMFLs, 28