The Main Event Jan/Feb 2011

01

21/12/10

16:11

Page 1

Issue 46 January/February 2011 £4.75

City launches events charter

Challenges ahead for event teams THE year ahead will present both challenges and opportunities for the events industry, it has been claimed.

According to experts, issues such as impending budget cuts and the impact of the upcoming 2012 London Olympics could prove challenging for those working in events.

The team at Mobile Promotions are currently looking at projects for 2011 and beyond and have recently had their first meeting with a client looking to work with them in 2012.

But managing director Robin Carlisle told The Main Event that it has taken a while for Olympics-related jobs to reach small and medium sized companies and the industry should be doing more to help – something which he is championing for 2011.

He explained: “The Olympics finally look to have landed on our doorstep – I had been saying it had passed us by.

But the associations and industry magazines should be doing more to help filter it down.

“One of the challenges will be as a business owner, finding out what the Olympic year is going to be all about.

“Going forward for the event industry, we need sustainable events. Not just

those that come once in a blue moon.”

TAO Productions’ Andy Cotton is also predicting a mixed bag for 2011 following the announcement that the HSE is to reconsider the issue of temporary structures in the events sector and the application of the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2007 to their erection and dismantling.

He added: “This may be a good thing or it may again increase costs for supplying temporary structures to smaller events. I wonder where this will end and what other legacies will come from the 2012 Olympics that will be detrimental to the industry in 2011 and onwards.”

But both Andy and Robin added that it is not all doom and gloom and the industry has a lot to feel optimistic about, moving forward into 2011.

Andy said that the UK has the best industry in the world and will lead the way in both professionalism and innovation, while Robin claims that the opportunities are out there for companies who are innovative in their thinking.

For more of Andy’s New Year industry predictions, see his column on Page 10

GLASGOW has become the first UK city to launch a dedicated major events charter.

The charter has been introduced by Glasgow’s Strategic Major Events Forum – a partnership between all of Glasgow’s main public agencies, which works closely with the private sector to develop the city as a first choice major events destination.

It is fully endorsed by the city’s events industry and guarantees the provision of support for organisers considering bringing major cultural and sporting events to Glasgow.

Chair of the forum Scott Taylor said: “Glasgow’s Major Events Charter outlines the 12 principal reasons why events organisers should choose Glasgow as their host city, from providing fast track access to key decision makers to ensuring their objectives and key priorities are delivered with maximum effect.”

X Factor star John Adeleye joined 18,000 fans at Sheffield’s bonfire night spectacular After Dark. The event forms part of a busy winter season for organisers Yellow Bus Events whose portfolio also includes Fright Night and comedy festival Grin Up North. In our interview with managing director Scott Barton, he revealed how these events went, why the company decided to re-brand and what challenges organisers are set to face over the next year. Full story, Page 4

Previous major events held in Glasgow include the MOBO Awards and the annual International Gymnastics Grand Prix.

The Main Event is the official magazine of the National Outdoor Events Association

02

23/12/10

15:38

Page 1

03

21/12/10

15:42

Page 1

3

‘Outdoor events must bring London to life in 2012 ...’

By Christina Eccles BRINGING London to life through outdoor events will be a key part of the 2012 Olympic Games, according to the CEO of LOCOG. Paul Deighton said that although there is still plenty of work to be done, plans for the Games are right on track.

He revealed that the focus now – with less than two years to go – is on making sure everything is completely ready.

And a vital part of this is ensuring that events taking place throughout the Capital during the Games are as spectacular as the action going on inside the stadiums.

Paul explained: “The principal thing is ensuring we are absolutely ready.

Everything we are doing is focusing on what we have to do to be ready

and how we are going to deal with anything that could happen.

“Up to now, it has mostly been about building the venues and raising money. Now we are pulling plans together and ensuring full integration between all the parties involved in delivering the Games.

“The city also has to be ready so we need to make sure the two plans work together. We are right where we want to be but there is an enormous amount of work to do.”

He added that making the whole city feel a part of the Games is important. As is leaving a tangible legacy for the country.

He added: “Bringing the city alive is a fundamental objective – using things such as live sites, live entertainment spaces, putting on concerts and cultural events and dressing the city.

“The event could leave a wonderful tourism legacy. There is the opportunity to send images around the world.

“If we get it right and get the welcome right, it will be a wonderful thing for the British visitor economy.”

One of the biggest revenue streams to come from the Games will be the money generated from tickets and Paul added that one challenge has been getting the pricing right.

“The biggest revenue chunk to be delivered is from ticket revenue. We have to strike that balance between getting enough money and having a sufficient range of prices so people can afford to come – it is a difficult balance. We want to make sure the venues are full.”

Paul was speaking at the International Sports Event Management conference, held at Twickenham Stadium.

Industry’s best honoured at awards THE best of the UK’s festival industry have been honoured at a glittering ceremony in London.

The seventh UK Festival Awards took place at the indigO2 and attracted the people behind some of the country’s top events.

The full list of winners were: Best Toilets – T In The Park Best Metropolitan Festival – Gaymers Camden Crawl Best Family Festival in association with Showsec – Camp Bestival Best Breakthrough Artist in association with Rizla – Mumford & Sons Best Dance Event in association with Peppermint Bars –Creamfields Feel Good Act of the Summer in association with Be-at TV– Paolo Nutini Best New Festival in association with Access All Areas – Vintage At Goodwood Headline Performance of the Year

in association with Jagermeister – AC/DC at Download Festival Virtual Festivals’ Critics’ Choice – Biffy Clyro at Glastonbury Overseas Festival – Snowbombing Anthem of the Summer in association with HMV – Florence & The Machine ‘You Got The Love’ Line-Up of the Year in association with XL Video – Rockness Promoter of the Year in association with IQ – Team Glastonbury Best Small Festival in association with Doodson Entertainment – Kendal Calling Best Medium Festival in association with Smirnoff Flavours – Green Man Best Major Festival in association with Tuborg – Bestival Lifetime Achievement in association with Music Week – Geoff Ellis, T in the Park Outstanding Contribution to

Festival Production in association with TPi – Neil McDonald Best Sponsor Activation in association with Brand Republic – Coca Cola The Grass Roots Festival Award in association with Robertson Taylor – 2000 Trees A Greener Festival Award in association with agreenerfestival.com – Croissant Neuf Summer Party.

Managing director of UK Festival Awards James Drury said: “This year’s awards were the most hotly-contested we’ve had, with over half a million votes, demonstrating just how important festivals are to the UK public.

“Despite the continued challenges of the economy, it’s been an incredible year for festivals and the awards is all about celebrating that. The winners should be rightly proud of their achievements, as should the rest of the industry.”

Giving real value is the only way forward Page 4

Winter events and ice rinks are hot news Page 14

Local authority spotlight Main Event Scotland The Event Production Show NOEA Classified

Page 6 Page 8 Page 16 Page 17 Page 19

CONTACTS EDITORIAL Group Editor Andrew Harrod Tel: 01226 734639 editorial@themaineventmagazine.co.uk Reporters: Christina Eccles (ce@whpl.net) Louise Cordell (lcordell@whpl.net) Dominic Musgrave (dm@whpl.net)

PRODUCTION Studio Manager: Stewart Holt (sth@whpl.net) Tel: 01226 734414 Group Deputy Editor: Judith Halkerston (jhalkerston@whpl.net) Tel: 01226 734458 Graphic designer: Kyle Wilkinson (kw@whpl.net) Tel: 01226 734711

ADVERTISING Sales Executive: Mandy Mellor Tel: 01226 734702 Email: mm@whpl.net Sales and Marketing Director: Tony Barry Email: tb@whpl.net

CIRCULATION Kelly Tarff Tel: 01226 734695 email: circulation@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk

www.themaineventmagazine.co.uk

04

21/12/10

2

15:23

Page 1

4

The newly-rebranded Yellow Bus Events is celebrating a successful year, with even more planned under its new name for 2011 – The Main Event found out more.

‘People want to be cheered up’ THIS year was the sixth Grin Up North comedy festival organised by Yellow Bus Events and it was the biggest yet.

The acts put on their shows in venues right across the city centre, meaning that the company has to work alongside the city council, its economic regeneration agency, local public transport and local businesses.

Scott said: “In this difficult climate there seems to be a greater appetite for comedy – people want to be cheered up. Attendance grows each year but the core of it is about quality – we want to bring in the biggest and best names. It is also great for the people that live in and around Sheffield, great for the economy and great for the image of the city.”

When the event was first introduced it was the company’s first move into non-outdoor events – however, last year it contributed £6m to the local economy, and so far it looks like this year will have brought in even more.

Scott added: “People will always want to have a good time, if the quality is there and the price is right.

“These days people judge each other not on what they have got, but on what they have done – so by providing great events where people want to be seen, we can tap into that.”

Giving real value is only way forward EVENT organisers will need to offer real value for money to make a success of 2011, according to industry expert Scott Barton.

Scott, MD of Yellow Bus Events (formerly Sheffield Events), has spoken out about the challenges organisers are set to face over the next year.

He said: “We have to accept that there will not be any easy money to be made in the near future – people will increasingly be looking for quality and value for money, so that is what we need to provide.

“It is also essential to remember that what people want is changing all the time and if you don’t keep up you are going to be left behind.”

Scott’s company has embraced change with a recent rebrand, replacing their tried and tested Sheffield Events name with the more unusual Yellow Bus logo.

This was partly due to ongoing confusion with a local listing website of a similar name, but mainly to help the company take its work to a wider audience.

Comedian Ross Noble who appeared at Grin Up North Scott added: “Our long term strategy is to keep moving on to new events, as well as building up those we do in the area and we felt that the old name was limiting us.

“However, we also plan to stay as a small business so we can keep the fun and quality that we are known for and take pride in everything we do.”

Over the last year Yellow Bus Events has branched out into a wide range of new events including working with Metropolis Music at Chelmsford’s V Festival, teaming up with local authorities who have cut back on their in-house organisation and will helping out with street entertainment

provision for the Showzam! Festival in Blackpool.

Scott added: “We are getting involved in a lot of new things, from planning a ten city British Street Entertainment Festival next year to using our ‘Yellow Bus’ for an Olympics promotional tour with Peter Jones from Dragon’s Den. “However, we will also continue to focus on what we do well - for example with Fright Night and After Dark, we take two established calendar dates and take them to the next level.

“Together with a planned drive on our own marketing, we should be able to make them bigger than ever.”

Putting on Fright Night for halloween and After Dark on bonfire night results in the busiest week of the year for Yellow Bus Events.

Both events have grown year on year, with Fright Night attracting sponsorship from the Arts Council and After Dark bringing in a record 18,000 visitors.

Scott said: “I think that fewer people are choosing to do fireworks at home, but at an event like this you get stage entertainment and a £20,000 display to music for a cheap ticket price.

“I also like to think of Fright Night as a cultural Trojan horse - getting people who would not usually be interested in street theatre and art and reaching out to them.”

05

21/12/10

15:03

Page 1

5

Call for uniform policy on police costs at events

By Christina Eccles THE industry is calling for more uniform regulations on police costs – claiming it is unfair that some events are charged so much while others do not have to pay anything.

A panel of organisers aired their views at this year’s UK Festival Conference in London and told delegates that the amounts they pay for policing are vastly different at each event.

And they revealed that they would like to see fairer guidelines implemented across the industry.

Director of Kendal Calling Andy Smith said: “In Cumbria, there are three music festivals. They are all about 8-10,000 capacity but all in different divisions.

“Despite the fact that ACPO has guidelines, there isn’t really a coordinated approach. 20 miles away, there are other festivals that don’t pay anything but we pay several thousands.”

At the Green Man Festival in Wales, organisers pay no police costs – thanks to hard work and negotiation between the police, local authority and festival director Fiona Stewart.

She explained: “I previously worked at the Big Chill and each time I did an event, I got an analysis of the event from the local authority and police.

“When we came to Powys, they knew the relationship I had with Hereford Council and contacted them to give a reference.

“I argued the case and proved that through many years of organising events, I had a record of managing them to a good standard.

“I feel very strongly that we have the right to do our business and work in an environment that supports that – and we should argue back.

“The whole issue with policing saddens me a lot because it has become very unfair and complicated.”

CEO of Kilimanjaro Live Stuart

Rod Stewart concert staged by Liz Hobbs Group

Liz Hobbs’ firm named 20th fastest growing company Festival director Fiona Stewart Galbraith organises the Sonisphere Festival, which takes place at Knebworth.

He added: “This debate has gone on for four or five years – policing costs vary enormously around the country and it is decided by geographical places rather than the event. We have paid up to £400,000.

“There are a lot of constabularies who have the attitude of anywhere but here.

“The police are the only contractor which have a monopoly. If you can’t agree costs they have the power to stop the event.”

But organiser of NewcastleGateshead’s Evolution Festival, Jim Mawdsley said that although raising the issue may benefit some festivals, a standardised approach may mean that those events who currently pay little or no police costs may lose out.

He added: “Each constabulary will have their own view and own interpretation. Promoters could mitigate risks by using their own specialised security staff. But the danger is if we flag it up too much, we could end up penalising those who pay low costs.”

Master class offers tips on delivering more-for-less SHEFFIELD Hallam University is to host a new master class designed to give event managers the tools to deliver first class events in a climate of funding cuts.

The event will include talks from industry experts such as three times event organiser of the year Mike Richmond, executive producer of Blackpool’s Showzam festival Vanessa Toulmin and Mark Spincer, managing director of Doncaster Racecourse.

Delegates will also have the opportunity to take part in a series of workshops where they can debate ideas and share their own challenges and successes with industry peers.

The Event Management Master Class is presented by The Event Management Hub at Sheffield Business School and runs in partnership with Welcome to Yorkshire and Sheffield City Council.

Event Management Hub project leader at Sheffield Hallam University Phil Crowther said: “The master class is a great opportunity for event organisers to learn from leading event specialists and discover new ways to deliver more-for-less in the challenging economic climate.

Attendees will gain real-world practical skills that they’ll be able to implement immediately.”

EVENT and concert production company, Liz Hobbs Group, has been listed as the 20th fastest growing private company in the UK. The Sunday Times Virgin Fast Track 100 ranks Britain’s 100 fastest growing private companies, based on sales growth over the last three years.

The company has enjoyed annual sales growth of more than 108 per cent over the last three years, with turnover rocketing from £706,000 in 2006 to nearly £6.4m last year.

CEO Liz Doogan-Hobbs said: “We’re delighted to be officially recognised as one of the UK’s fastest growing companies and to be ranked so highly makes us even more proud.

“We see this success as testament not only to the quality of our events and the business we have won and completed, but the loyalty and commitment of our customers that we value so highly and the hard work of our team who put in so much effort to make us what we are.”

06

21/12/10

2

15:03

Page 1

6

LOCAL AUTHORITY SPOTLIGHT

The 2010 Lincoln Christmas Market was cancelled for the first time in its 28 year history after severe weather hit the area. In this month’s spotlight, The Main Event discovers how the team at the City of Lincoln Council coped and are bouncing back to plan for the future ...

Disappointed Lincoln team looks to future THE Christmas Market is the City of Lincoln Council’s flagship event, attracting about 160,000 people over four days and marking the start of the festive season.

The event is also worth about £10m to the local economy – so cancelling was not an easy option – but after days of heavy snow, with more forecast and following consultation with the event safety advisory group there was no option.

The decision to cancel was made on the Wednesday morning, with the market due to start the following day.

Working to a short timescale, the most important thing became getting the word out to ensure stall holders and visitors did not turn up to the site.

Social networks proved invaluable for this, enabling the communications team to spread the message quickly. Within an hour, the cancellation had even become a trending topic on Twitter.

Senior communications officer Caroline Ashman explained: “The decision was made about 11am and by 11.30 we had sent an email to all the stall holders, rang round the media and updated the websites and social media.

“We had a press conference at midday after that did a ring round of radio stations and appeared on programmes including Radio Two’s travel news.

“It was a successful campaign and we had nobody turn up at the Park and Ride.”

Following the cancellation, stall holders were offered a full refund or a stall at the next market and the council claims that the amount of people taking up the offer of a stall for 2011, shows that traders still have confidence in the success of the event.

A virtual market was also set up so those who would have been trading at the event could sell their goods online.

About 40 stall holders and businesses signed up to www.lincoln-christmasmarket.co.uk to advertise for free, with links directly to their own websites.

The focus is now firmly on the future, with discussions already taking place around the 2011 event.

One option being talked about is extending the market to run over a longer period of time – so if bad weather strikes, some of the event may be able to continue.

Economic sustainability and tourism services manager Rob Bradley added: “We are disappointed as it is a very big event in Lincoln and marks the start of the festive season.

It is also important as it generates about £10m into the local economy.

“But we are looking forward to the future. Our feedback shows that people have faith in the event and want it to go ahead.”

Christmas light switch-on attracts thousands FORTUNATELY, not all of Lincoln’s festive events programme was affected by the weather.

The Christmas Lights Switch-on took place a couple of weeks earlier at the end of November to coincide with the start of late-night shopping in the city.

The event attracts an estimated 3,000 people who gather to watch the official switch on by the mayor and a celebrity, which is usually someone local, and a civic procession from the Guild Hall.

For this event, important changes were also made to improve the experience for visitors and as a reaction to

feedback from previous years.

A stage was introduced for the first time to give people a better view of the entertainment, which included stars of local pantomime Dick Whittington, and the switch on done by the Mayor of Lincoln and local actor Colin McFarlane.

Civic manager Kate Fenn said: “We had a stage because of feedback from people who said they couldn’t see.

This improved the overall experience.

“We also improved the area where people could stand, which made it easier for people to get into the shops if they wanted to. It’s important to get feedback from local people.”

Celebrating Aussie links ...

ANOTHER popular event in the city is the Australian Breakfast, which celebrates links between Lincoln and Australia.

The city is twinned with Port Lincoln in South Australia and to mark Australia Day and the tradition of breakfast on the beach, holds its own event. However, as the day is

commemorated in January – which is the Australian summer – the Lincoln version has to be held inside to beat the cold. Features of the event, which is also held to raise money for charity, include the actual breakfast, with food provided by local businesses, live entertainment and a link up with the city’s Australian counterparts.

07

23/12/10

15:39

Page 1

7

In a tough economic climate, festivals are always looking for ways to make themselves more profitable. In a special feature, a panel of experts reveal their tips on how to get the most from your event.

Experts share their secrets to hosting a successful event Director of Kendal Calling Andy Smith: “Quite a few festivals have a plan where initially they will lose money. But that’s really not the plan to take.

“What we did was start with such a capacity (900 people) that it would be impossible not to sell out.

“We have also been working with suppliers for a few years so are slowly building up trust with them.”

Director of the Green Man Festival Fiona Stewart: “My advice is to look at the bottom line all the time.

Festivals can be vastly different in costs to run, so do your legwork.

“You should be breaking even in your first year and recouping some kind of money in the second. If you do have backing and can afford to make a loss, then fair enough but many of us are small organisations and if you are not making money in

your first or second year, then go in a different direction.

“Every time you employ someone else to do what you could do yourself, you are eating into your money. Also get good relationships with contractors and develop these relationships through trust.”

CEO of Kilimanjaro Live Stuart Galbraith: “With Sonisphere, we knew we were trying to come in at a 50- 60,000 capacity and the only way was to invest.

“In year one we lost money, in year two we broke even and in year three we will make a profit.

“A touring proposition is a lot broader base to work from and gives us more buying power. We knew if we were to compete in the UK market, we needed more than two festivals, otherwise we would be like Reading/Leeds or the V Festivals.”

Organiser of the Evolution Festival and board member for the Association of Independent Festivals Jim Mawdsley: “We can save money by working together and also have a friends scheme where suppliers pitch to us. AIF is also really important for producing a collective response. As an organisation, we can have meetings with people which as individuals we might not be able to do.

“The economic impact of Evolution is measured at £3.5m and we get local authority investment of £100,000.

There is a strong cultural programme in Newcastle and there are people in both councils who are keen to help out. Even if it is not financial, local authorities can give support in terms of licensing, road closures etc. There are other things they can do for you as well as giving money.”

Director of Peppermint Events and

Bars Alex Brooke: “We offer a tailored bar operation, which means customers invest in the festival through the bar operation. It is not a one size fits all option.

“There are always a number of key objectives. What we always try to do is work out what the client wants to do and not pigeonhole them.

“There is a lot more of a requirement for tailor made solutions. It is not always the most profitable thing to do but might be the best thing for that festival. It is about sitting down with a client and looking at what they want to achieve and how we can make them the most money by achieving that.”

The panel was speaking at this year’s UK Festival Conference, which was held at the O2 in London.

Arena and IMG deliver ice rink in challenging location ARENA Structures and IMG worked together to deliver an ice rink in one of London’s most challenging locations.

Arena provided its 10m x 40m Horizon double-decker structure adjacent to the temporary ice rink at The Natural History Museum, with customised interiors and bespoke steel and glass staircase, to accommodate the VIP bar and downstairs changing facilities.

The company also changed the size of the decking to increase space for the rink, which allowed more people to skate at any one time.

A customised 2.5m balcony overlooking the ice-skaters was designed

to extend from the public bar – with clear glass in the handrails so people could sit inside but still see what was going on.

A joined up approach between all parties involved ensured that everything went smoothly, but project manager James Thomas told The Main Event that the project was not without its challenges.

He explained: “This was the second year we had done it, so we knew what we were dealing with.

“We tweaked a few things because the site is tight – we found it is better to bring things in slowly rather than having everything there.”

A Voyage of Discovery is the theme for the event next June.

Theme unveiled for second Manchester Day parade

More than 200 delegates attended EventScotland’s International Events Conference to hear an array of speakers from the sporting, culture and tourism sectors.

Chaired by broadcaster Dougie Vipond, the day offered delegates the opportunity to evaluate the industry’s work, the positive impacts created around the events industry and the challenges faced. Speakers included VisitScotland chairman Mike Cantlay, EventScotland’s COO Paul Bush and MOBO Awards founder Kanya King. The day closed with 2010 Ryder Cup captain Colin Montgomerie answering a series of questions on the recent victory at Celtic Manor and his thoughts on the world famous event coming to Gleneagles in 2014.

THE theme has been unveiled for the second Manchester Day Parade, which takes place throughout the city in June.

A Voyage of Discovery is designed to give groups the chance to explore the historical, political, scientific, digital and personal stories of their city, taking them on a voyage that starts in their own streets and ends in the city centre with the massive parade.

The event will once again be delivered by Walk the Plank and

co-founder Liz Pugh said: “We’re extremely happy to be working on Manchester Day Parade again.

“It’s a chance for people in and around the city to experience being part of a large scale celebration.

“What’s special about the parade is that the creative ideas and input is provided by Manchester’s residents, who then work with artists to turn the ideas into amazing costumes and floats.”

08

23/12/10

2

15:41

Page 1

8

ADVERTISER’S ANNOUNCEMENT

Event a must for those wanting to make maximum audience impact SHOWCASING the best of the events industry, The Main Event Scotland is the ultimate meeting place for anyone striving to make maximum audience impact with their next event.

The Main Event, Scotland’s awardwinning exhibition for the events industry, provides the ultimate event solution for everyone from PA’s to event managers.

Whether the plan is to host a con-

ference, corporate day out, team building exercise, meeting, charity function, party, conference or a group day out the Main Event caters for all.

Exhibitors will be showcasing new and innovative ideas, including industry-first launches as well as the very best in catering, venues, lighting, entertainment and the latest products and technologies.

There will also be a range of activities and attractions. Throughout the event, Forth One’s Grant Stott will be hosting a number of topical and educational seminars at the MCL Theatre, providing visitors with “food for thought” and handy tips from industry experts.

Show highlights: Over 100 exhibitors, including MCL, Visit Lanarkshire, Sound and Vision and Field and Lawn, plus a host of first-time exhibitors such as Northern Networking Events, The National Trust for Scotland, Blooming Occasions and Blue Parrot.

Attend free seminar sessions at the MCL Theatre with our top UK speakers who have worked on events for clients such as Louis

Vuitton, Ford and Rolls Royce.

Benefit from exclusive event offers and discounts from top exhibitors.

View the latest products, up-todate technologies and innovative systems within our new Innovation Zone.

Networking opportunities – gain valuable contacts for the year

ahead.

It will excite, delight, inspire and make future event organising just that little bit easier…

Date: Thursday March 10 2011 Venue: SECC, Glasgow Times: 10am - 5:30pm Entry fee: £15 To register visit our website: www.themaineventscotland.com

09

23/12/10

15:41

Page 1

9

Are headliners paramount to any festival?

By Christina Eccles AN INDUSTRY debate has broken out over the value of attracting big name headliners to festivals.

According to experts, for some events, it is all about the artistes – with festivals competing for the biggest names.

And in some cases entering into exclusivity deals to ensure they get the acts they want.

Head booker at Festival Republic Neil Pengelly said that securing the right headliners is key for a festival.

He explained: “Headliners are paramount to any festival – it is always the first thing people look at.

“Although a lot of people might not care who is headlining, the key thing to get right is the headliners.”

But experts also added that although securing the right headline acts is important for some festivals, others can sell tickets on the back of an established reputation or because they have something unique to offer festivalgoers.

CEO of MAMA Festivals Gary Turner explained: “When we look at the amount of headliners there are, there is not the biggest pool. Remember

what your festival is and what actually suits it. The creative element of a festival is becoming more important, especially in the middle tier of festivals that can’t get the massive headliners because of financial constraints.”

Director of X-Ray Touring Jeff Craft added: “It depends on the artiste as well. Some don’t want to headline as they don’t want the attention that comes with being a headliner.

“There is a massive market for festivals all over the world and the key is to find the audience that wants to come to the event. But there are some that are so well established, people are buying tickets without knowing who the headliners are.”

Jeff also said that live income is now a major source of revenue for acts – but there can be a danger that the same bands constantly touring the circuit means less choice for organisers.

“This is one of the reasons why reunions are becoming more popular. In this climate, a reunion is added value because the act has not been seen for a few years. It is difficult to find acts who are not on a constant cycle of touring all year round.”

Area identified as ripe for growth G4S Events has opened a new regional headquarters in Cardiff after identifying South Wales as a key growth area for events.

The company – which recently provided security services for the Ryder Cup at Celtic Manor – believes that tourism and leisure in the region will grow and it will become a regular destination for major live music and sports events.

Managing director Mark Hamilton said: “Cardiff and Swansea have the four biggest stadia in Wales; the Millennium, Cardiff City, Liberty and the SWALEC. “In addition, Wales regularly attracts

huge events such as international cricket and rugby fixtures, music concerts and of course The Ryder Cup. “As the UK’s leading independent event security provider it makes sense for us to be part of these exciting events, which is why we are opening a major office in the area and will be investing significantly in the local economy.”

G4S’ new office will be led by regional operations manager Robin Keevil, a former police inspector, who has extensive experience in the police management of critical incidents and events.

A team from Festival Republic has raised over £125,000 for charity after pedaling its way across Africa. At the last count, the fundraising total for the Kenyan Orphan Project was £125,000 – which is already £25,000 over the target. Managing director Melvin Benn said: “We had an amazing five days cycling and two days of project visit-

ing and the pain of the ride soon disappeared when seeing the reward it would bring to such vulnerable children. Visiting a school for example where 490 of the 630 pupils attending were orphaned as a result of AIDS deaths of parents says everything about why we need to support them. It was massively worthwhile.”

Eve secures police deal TEMPORARY access solutions specialist Eve has secured a three-year supplier agreement with the London Metropolitan Police Service.

Having supplied the force with its crowd control, security barriers and fencing products for over 20 years, the new contract will see Eve supplying, storing, maintaining and deploying its barriers across the capital for a

wide range of high profile events.

These include state visits, Trooping the Colour, London football matches, the Notting Hill Carnival, Remembrance Day and New Year’s Eve celebrations. As part of the contract, Eve’s Wimbledon based depot will be on standby for emergency situations, enabling them to deploy the barriers and fencing within two hours.

10

21/12/10

2

15:05

Page 1

10

For the last few months, the directors of the White Rose Winter Music Festival at Ripley Castle have been sharing their diary – reporting on the event’s progress from the early stages to completion. In the final entry Emma Ramply and Shan Robinson reveal how it went ...

Festival blossoms despite the freeze FOR four days in December, the castle courtyard was completely transformed into a magical, indoor 1,000 seat theatre, staging a programme of leading musical entertainment, produced by Raymond Gubbay.

Emma and Shan came across their fair share of challenges to get the event off the ground, but both are delighted with the reaction to the new festival and are already looking forward to 2011.

Emma said: “We have been thrilled with everybody’s response and complimentary feedback on the festival.

We certainly had more than our share of challenges in getting the event off the ground this year, including the great British weather!

But apart from the arctic conditions, an enormous heating bill and diminished numbers on the Wednesday night, we couldn’t have wished for a better four-day event in our first year, thanks to our wonderful team of contractors who all went beyond the call of duty to make it such a success. We must just mention Pinnacle Marquees, FTAV Sound and Lighting, Hoff Heating, Ripley Castle and of course the team at Raymond Gubbay and the incredibly talented artists who all did a superb job.”

Shan added: “I think festivalgoers

were perhaps slightly nervous and a bit uncertain of what to expect, given the description we gave in the marketing material of `a temporary structure inside the castle courtyard’ and clearly bearing in mind the wintry conditions. It was very rewarding to see the expressions on the guests’ faces as they entered, evidently delighted and very relieved to be hit by a warm, enticing, festive environment as they entered the foyer through the castle gatehouse.

“It is always very difficult with a new event to properly paint an accurate picture of the setting, atmosphere, production quality etc, especially when using such a unique venue format, but we know that next year our job promoting the event will be made 10 times easier now that we have great photographs, testimonials and most importantly confidence and great enthusiasm from our market and the media.

“We have been extremely pleased with the end result and the feedback we have received from the event, but looking back it wasn’t all smiles. I don’t think the weather could have been crueller to us, which created a lot of extra work and headaches during the build. The third day was the worst when we arrived on site to find

more than six inches of snow on the roof of the structure which created a big safety issue with the enormous strain it was putting on the legs and roof with the tonnes of extra weight.

After two hours of having the jumbo industrial heaters on full heat and a huge diesel bill later, we managed to melt the snow enough to allow the team to continue work.

“We would like to thank our sponsors and partners; Jaguar, Welcome to Yorkshire, Thorncroft, Black Sheep and Ackrill Media who’s support made it all possible.

“If we can raise the necessary sponsorship, we fully intend to run the event for a second year in December 2011 and for many years to come.”

As a new year begins, Andy Cotton shares with The Main Event his predictions for the industry in 2011 ...

Tough times ahead for 2011 EVENTS in 2010 suffered from the worldwide recession and 2011, I expect will be no different.

Local authorities will find it hard to produce free events for their communities. When they are facing such large cuts in budgets, they will have a choice between emptying the bins, say, or their local country council subsidised show – the show may have to go.

They will look to the private sector to take on such events, but how likely is it for promoters to want to undertake previous non-profit council events?

The quango that is PRS, will not be disbanded like most other quangos in the government cuts.

With them increasing their percentage upwards from the current three per cent in 2011 taking even more money from the beleaguered promoters; their slice of the cake gets bigger while the promoters’ profit decreases.

They haven’t realised that in this climate they need the promoters to trade for them to get their percentage or they may be just too greedy to care!

It has been announced in local authority circles that following the HSE's involvement in the Olympics, this has led them to reconsider the issue of temporary

structures in the events/entertainments sectors and the application of the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2007 (CDM Regulations) to their erection and dismantling. This may be a good thing or it may again increase costs for supplying temporary structures to smaller events.

I wonder where this will end and what other legacies will come from the 2012 Olympics that will be detrimental to the industry in 2011 and onwards. It’s okay for the Olympics, which has billions of pounds of taxpayers’ money to waste but what about the industry as a whole? Yes new venues but any money left in the economy to put events in them, I doubt it.

The corporate marketplace for 2010 has really been conspicuous by its absence and unfortunately there is little sign of a dramatic recovery for the next fiscal year.

There has to be a turn around for the corporate marketplace as most of the companies that have battened down the hatches to get through the recession must start to trade out of the situation, which will mean product launches and exhibitions, but I don’t see 2011 bringing in many corporate parties or staff incentives.

So is it all doom and gloom or is

there some light at the end of this tunnel? On the plus side we have a Royal Wedding so someone’s got to organise it, there’s at least one corporate job to go for, global warming means we have more snow every winter so my drive looks nice and the big music artists are charging more and more money with big back end percentage deals so they and their agents are all going to be okay and they will still be able to pay for their four or five homes (I

do worry about them!)

Seriously, we have the best industry in the world and the UK events industry will again blossom for 2011 and beyond, as we always have, we will lead the world in professionalism and innovation despite the politicians and civil servants, so I wish you all a Happy New Year and I’m off to have a festive Bailey’s and a bottle of valium.

11

21/12/10

15:05

Page 1

11

The relationship between festivals and brands was explored in a panel debate at this year’s UK Festival Conference. The Main Event went along.

How it works for festivals and brands ACCORDING to figures, sponsorships in the UK are worth over £1b – with many brands working hard to link up with UK festivals and engage with audiences which they may otherwise find hard to reach.

But to ensure a successful partnership, it is vital that both the brand and the festival are clear about what they want to achieve and how they are going to do it.

Head of music partnerships at Brandamp Dave Chase explained: “When a client comes to us, generally via an agency, they want to target a particular audience. We come back to them with what’s on the market at the time and also look at alternative solutions. We always go back with a clear view of what the festival can offer and whether it is relevant to them.

“We also work with festival organisers to present ideas and look at the financial values that the festival is looking for. But festival organisers need to create as much information as they can about what their product is.”

Tuborg’s brand manager Chris Thornhill added: “Brands go into festivals for a number of reasons.

For example, Tuborg is a relatively young brand so a lot of our objectives are around growth. The main thing we have at Live Nation festivals is that we use the main stage

screen. If you are looking at brands with more maturity in the market, they are going to be looking at elements which will help them to gain loyalty and tailor activity to meet these demands.”

The panel also advised organisers how they can get the most out of forming partnerships with brands and extend the relationship beyond the festival itself.

President of Be@TV Ray Smith added: “Utilise the web as a platform to amplify activity and extend the legacy beyond the festival ending. A lot of time the brand association ends [after the event] but by presenting it online, people can relive the moment again.”

This year’s Beach Break Live was sponsored by Dell and managing director Ian Forshew revealed why

the partnership worked so well.

The brand set up an internet cafe at the event and as it is attended by students, this proved really popular with the crowds who could go online to check exam results and use social networking sites to talk about their experiences at the festival.

Ian added: “We worked with Dell this year at the festival – we had to look at what they are about and what the festival is about.

“We included the internet cafe and the students liked the interaction they were having with the brand.

“Success for us is a positive effect on the event’s budget, the customer experience and building a lasting relationship with the brand moving forwards.”

New website launched by XL XL Video UK has launched its new website www.xlvideo.com which has been designed as a proactive communications portal for all those interested in the company and its services.

This fast, easily navigable, slick visual interface gives a comprehensive overview of XL Video's products, services and activities, and features full technical info on the wide range of video and AV equipment available for hire. The different sectors in which XL works – including concert touring, theatre and the arts, TV shows, outdoor festivals – each have their own individual sections.

There are contact details for all the relevant project managers, so inquiries can be directed straight to the relevant personnel.

XL Events, the award-winning corporate and live event arm of the company also has its own section, covering the specialist design and technical facilitation services offered to corporate agencies, production companies, exhibition organisers, public and special events of all types and the TV and broadcast sectors.

The news and gallery section is regularly updated and visitors can also sign up to receive regular e-newsletters from XL Video highlighting recent projects and newly acquired equipment. A prominent careers section is designed to encourage freelance crew to contact XL Video and offer their skills and expertise, and it also details training opportunities for those wanting to increase their knowledge in practical, hands on contexts.

12

23/12/10

2

15:43

Page 1

12

ADVERTISER’S ANNOUNCEMENT

Add revenue to your event by improving your profit control ADD revenue to your event without selling more tickets, without increasing prices and without cutting back on costs.

How much revenue would you like to add? We have helped to increase revenue by up to nine per cent at some of the largest venues in the country.

How? By having a dedicated team aimed at improving your profit con-

trol by reducing wastage, theft and unexplained losses.

Casual staff are the backbone of the event industry but they tend to be untrained and the chances of them reducing your profits are increased.

The Venners LIVE Profit Control team provide accurate and individual stock results for each area of sales.

Rather than produce figures that are only relevant after the event, we produce results just after the units close.

Action can then be taken with your security and operational teams to ensure that any poor results are not repeated again.

The Venners database allows stock results to be linked to staff, so that consistently poor performers can be highlighted and targeted.

This database shows up anomalies such as the manager who regularly recorded wastage of 100 burgers every time he worked and the manager who consistently had stock to cash losses of less than one per cent but always had over 10 per cent wastage.

Not only are the Venners team skilled in producing these accurate figures, due to the number of events and systems seen, they are also skilled at reducing the wastage seen at sites, advising on queue times and problems and aiming to increase turnover by operational practices.

Your operational staff will be focused on increasing sales. By adding Venners to the team you also get a dedicated focus on increasing your profit – the key to a successful event.

13

21/12/10

15:06

Page 1

13

Changes were made at Barnsley’s annual Christmas lights switch on to improve the experience for visitors and utilise the town’s newest event space. Christina Eccles found out more.

Split event caters for all tastes THE lights switch on is the town’s most popular event – drawing crowds of over 20,000 people to mark the start of the festive season.

But this year, organisers Barnsley Council took a whole new approach by splitting the event into two separate parts.

One part of the event took place in the town centre and was aimed at families with young children.

Attractions included 2 Grand from Britain’s Got Talent and the actual light switch on performed by TV character Peppa Pig and the mayor of Barnsley Coun Margaret Sheard.

Teenagers and older fans were also catered for with a new, wristbanded event in the town centre’s County Way car park, headlined by X Factor contestants Lloyd Daniels and Belle Amie.

And although organisers admitted changing a successful formula could have been a risk, the gamble paid off as 25,000 people visited over the course of the day.

The council’s arts and events manager Lynn Mealings explained: “We catered specifically in the town centre for families and young children and had the teenage mass appeal on County Way with the X Factor acts.

“The key for this was splitting the crowd and avoiding crowd surges.

We had the families in the town centre so programmed to that audience. And on County Way, we knew what would keep young people interested and that the draw of Lloyd Daniels was greater than the lights in the town centre.”

The County Way site had previously been trialled as an event space earlier in the year when it hosted a Love Music Hate Racism Concert starring acts such as Chipmunk and Roll Deep.

And Lynn told The Main Event that the council learned valuable

lessons there which they could implement on this event.

She added: “We did the Love Music Hate Racism concert at County Way which was very successful.

We learned about crowd management from the concert and also where to locate the food outlets and fairground to give plenty of space for moving everybody around.

“Also as the site is hard core flooring, it is easier to clear up afterwards. The get out is much faster than it would be if the event was held on grass.

“We also had wristbands, which enabled us to track exactly how many people were coming on site – overall we had 6,222. The wristbands were also great advertising for sponsors.”

As the car park is also open to the public seven days a week, the team also had the task of working to a tight timescale to load everything in and out.

They started in the car park at midday, the event started at 3.30pm with the firework finale at 7.30pm – and everyone was home

by 9pm.

Lynn also said that the two sites worked really well at splitting the crowd and once the town centre event had finished, the crowds there had the option to come along to the other event.

“After the lights at 5pm, we retained a significant number of people in the town centre and everyone else came to the County Way site to continue the event and see the fireworks at 7.30pm.

“The retailers were also happy because they had a lot of families in the town centre. A lot of shops stayed open and it created a really nice atmosphere. It also meant people could have a pit stop in between sites and made it feel like the whole site was joined up.”

Sponsors were also a vital part of the event – with companies who came on board including ASOS and local radio station Hallam FM. Lynn added: “Our partners help us to maintain a good profile in difficult economic times – we couldn’t have put that amount of cash into our event. Establishing these relationships now is really important.”

14

23/12/10

2

15:44

Page 1

14

WINTER EVENTS AND ICE RINKS

Jamie’s team adds warmth to a Winter Wonderland JAMIE Oliver’s Fabulous Feasts swapped summer festivals for Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland – providing visitors with festive food and drink and a special gingerbread making workshop.

Rihanna switched on the Christmas lights at London’s Westfield Shopping Centre, supported by Arcstream AV’s spectacular laser show. Managing director Neil Dickinson said: “Westfield was looking for an effect which would engage the huge crowd this event always pulls in, and lasers are a brilliant way of creating an effect in a large space. We used 20 diffraction mirrors placed throughout the atrium area sending beams literally everywhere to cover the massive audience.”

They also made clever use of one of the park’s existing bandstands by turning the space into a gingerbread

Dancing on Ice winner Hayley Tamaddon launched Sheffield city centre’s first ice rink.

The rink – sponsored

by Real Radio – was situated in the Peace Gardens and could hold up to 120 people.

Hayley – who is starring in pantomime in Sheffield as Peter Pan – joined Sheffield City Council’s cabinet member for culture, sport and tourism Coun Roger Davison at the rink.

Flying Hire powering forward into 2011 THERE’S a buzz around a quiet backwater in Lincolnshire … a gentle hum of excitement generated by the imminent launch of the new Flying Hire generators into the festivals and events world throughout Britain.

Flying Hire can now present the newest, most reliable, state-ofthe-art means of powering outside events – fully synchronized, programmable load sharing 220KVa generators.

Managing director Lindsay Nearn said: “The success of every event depends on 100 per cent reliable power.

“Flying Hire provides temporary power that is guaranteed not to fail.

Our brand new fully synchronized, programmable load-sharing generators are precisely what the event industry requires.”

Established 10 years, Flying Hire demonstrates proven high quality service to their customers.

Expertise and dedication is key to the success of Flying Hire.

All equipment is fully serviced and maintained to a very high standard.

Managing director Joe Nearn added:

The team set up a full kitchen for the event – which took three days in total – serving up warming treats such as slow roasted pork, pasta, soups, stews, mulled wine and hot chocolate.

“We have the knowledge, together with direct backup from JCB, to use these generators to their full capabilities; load-sharing to adapt efficiently to power requirements and eliminate risk of overload, telemetry monitoring/communication via SMS, GSM or Wi-Fi allowing Flying Hire to maintain ultimate control.”

house where families could decorate and take away their own gingerbread men.

Using good quality ingredients was also high on the agenda for the company, who made a big effort to source local and organic produce.

Managing director Glen Chadwick said: “The organisers came to us to talk about the event and said they had a bandstand they would like to do something with.

“In previous years they have had Santa up there but this was an opportunity to do something different.”

X Factor winner Joe McElderry switched on Sheffield city centre’s Christmas lights at an event attended by 35,000 people. Joe was joined on stage by Scouting for Girls, coun Paul Scriven, leader of Sheffield City Council, Real Radio hosts Dixie and Gayle and Calendar News’ Christine Talbot to press the plunger and illuminate the city. Other highlights at the free event included a performance by CBeebies stars ZingZillas, reindeer, huskies and fairground rides.

Structure specialist ice and busy DE BOER had a busy festive season after responding to growing demand for its temporary accommodation alongside ice rinks.

The structure specialist was hired in towns and cities across the UK to meet the public’s ever increasing love of skating over the Christmas and New Year period.

Key accounts manager Kate Morrison said: “De Boer has been providing accommodation to temporary ice rinks for many years. As the popularity of skating continues to grow, clients are increasingly turning to us as an experienced partner that can help them create a festive experience to remember.”

Event lighting is supplied in the form of high quality tower lights.

Coupled with dusk till dawn auto start they provide a non-man operation for events.

These provide floodlight to dark public areas in order that events can carry on safely beyond daylight hours.

Their impeccable attention to customer service is what sets Flying Hire apart. Peace of mind begins from the first phone call.

Advice on requirements and a realistic quote are provided in a friendly, professional manner.

A confident working relationship is developed throughout the setting up, running to removal at the end of a successful event.

For more information contact www.flyinghireevents.co.uk or 01522 778899

A never before seen animation and a performance from X Factor winner Joe McElderry entertained the crowds at Manchester’s Christmas lights switch on.

The 20,000 plus crowd at Albert Square were treated to a world first from Moët & Chandon, as flying champagne corks virtually ‘cracked’ the Manchester Town Hall Clock before the building filled with champagne. The evening came to a sparkling end with a 10-minute fireworks display and also included special guests from Coronation Street and the cast of hit musical We Will Rock You.

15

21/12/10

15:06

Page 1

WINTER EVENTS AND ICE RINKS Ice rinks can add a festive sparkle to outdoor winter events but to get it right, there are several things which organisers would need to think about. Stage Electrics’ John Burgess shares his top five.

How to make ice rink project glide not slide 1. Purpose

An ice rink must have a flat surface – so the flatter the surface where the ice rink can be built, the easier it is and less expensive it will be for you. Power supply onsite could potentially reduce costs by 30 - 40 per cent if you don’t have to use power from generators. Water is imperative. It may sound funny but the amount of venues who have expressed the desire to have an ice rink but when asked where their nearest water supply is located, they have no idea. To build an ice rink you will need A LOT of

THE driving forces behind some of the UK’s biggest events have been invited to attend a conference focusing on crime at major music festivals.

Its aim is to discuss the crime encountered during the 2010 festival season and to look forwards to improvements and continued intelligence and tactic sharing for the 2011 season.

The festival promoters and forces being invited to attend include representatives from Glastonbury, Leeds, Reading, Download, Isle of Wight, T in the Park and V Festival, with the conference chaired by Festival Republic’s Melvin Benn and Chief Supt Andy Battle of West Yorkshire Police.

2. Location/access to site

3. Site

Conference to focus on crime at major music festivals The conference – hosted by Festival Republic – is now in its third year and follows on from the success of the previous two events.

Agreeing the purpose of your ice rink before you start to plan means that you are going to get a better customer experience. The main questions you need to ask yourself before you start anything else is: Is the purpose of your rink to attract more shoppers and people?

Is the brief designed to entertain or act as a community focus?

Is the purpose to utilise an asset or space that otherwise would be underused?

Do you want or need to attract financial sponsors to the ice rink?

The answers to these questions will help to determine how you need to proceed.

Ice rinks need to be visible to the general public and require high volumes of footfall. Marketing alone to create awareness of the ice rink will not be sufficient to keep the ice rink busy. There needs to be easy access to the location for the technical build and also for the general public. Your customers need to see a clear way to get on the ice.

15

The list of speakers confirmed and topics to be covered so far include: water.

4. Population/ target market You need to keep the ice rink busy – a busy ice rink attracts more skaters and looks better, so consider your local footfall and that will determine the size of your ice rink.

Divide the sqm of the ice rink by three and that will give you your “on ice capacity” at any one time, e.g. 300sqm ice rink will hold 100 skaters per session. Think about how many hours in the day you want your ice rink to operate? If every session was to last 45 minutes for example how does that affect your revenue, staff costs and throughput?

Also considering your target market – who you do want to attract/ who will you attract? This will provide you with the best approach to take when marketing your ice rink.

For example, building your ice rink next to your Santa’s Grotto will attract a lot of families, not necessarily young adults; build an ice

rink in a cinema complex and you will attract a lot of teenagers.

5. Finishing

Including other elements such as decorative lighting, music, pavilions for boot changing and carpeting will all add to the experience of your customers who come to skate. Additional income can come from selling food and beverages. A research report in 2007 found that only 1/3 of revenue came from people actually skating.

If your venue also provides food and refreshments near the ice rink, customers will most likely have something to eat at your venue before or after enjoying their 45 minutes on the ice rink, therefore increasing your revenue. Themed markets and other concessions can bring in significant revenue as well as adding to the overall attractiveness of your ice rink.

John Burgess is live events account manager at Stage Electrics.

Reg Walker, Iridium Consultancy and Commercial Protection Unit – with a review of crime and operations during the 2010 festival season.

Inspector Marcus Griffiths from West Yorkshire Police – on the "Multi Agency tout response vehicle" operation at Leeds Festival 2010.

The dispersal zone activated by Thames Valley Police against touts for Reading Festival 2010.

Peter Nicholson, security co-ordinator, Festival Republic – on the differences in approach from a police and a promoter perspective.

Steve Barnes, National Mobile Phone Crime Unit – on mobile phone crime during 2010 in the light of their additional engagement with festivals and their respective police forces.

Rape prevention campaign at Leeds Festival 2010.

The free conference will take place on January 20 at the Royal Berkshire Conference Centre at the Madejski Stadium.

Sharing the secrets of lasting success ...

A GROUP of the UK’s most respected festival organisers closed the 2010 UK Festival Conference by sharing the secrets of their lasting success.

Organiser of the Isle of Wight Festival John Giddings, Live Nation UK’s chief operating officer John Probyn and Creamfields’ James Barton addressed delegates at the event.

The panel shared their experiences of organising major events as well as giving the audience an insight into some of the highlights and challenges they have faced along the way.

John Probyn – who has worked on

events including Download, Wireless and Hard Rock Calling – revealed that one of the most challenging times in his career came at Download when disgruntled fans, who were left dissatisfied by a headline performance, took matters into their own hands.

He explained: “One year Guns ‘n’ Roses played Download and we ended up with a riot in the campsite.

It was one of the darkest moments of my career watching the festival collapse – we had nine vans of riot police.

“Our audience is predominantly aged 18-25 and know their music.

The act they had waited for did a bad performance and that triggered it.

“But we learned from it. We sat down with security and police and have never looked back. We had a very upset audience and we handled it wrong.”

James has been at the helm of Creamfields for the last 12 years and achieved one of his proudest moments two years ago when the event sold out for the first time.

And he added that even though the festival has grown over the years, the focus has always been on the music.

He added: “Anyone who comes to a

dance gig, has to be committed to dance. Creamfields is all about the music and that particular sound.

They are there to listen to the music.”

The trio also shared their predictions for the future and James told delegates that there is ‘a lot to be optimistic and positive about’ for next year.

John Giddings added that going to a festival is a brilliant, shared experience and as long as the event keeps selling tickets, he will keep doing it.

John Probyn said that top of his agenda for next year is selling more tickets and reducing artiste fees.

16

21/12/10

2

15:07

Page 1

16

THE EVENT PRODUCTION SHOW

More exhibitors than ever heading for The Event Production Show THE Event Production Show is on target for the largest number of exhibitors in its 20-year history, organisers have revealed.

2010 saw the show’s footprint increase by 1,500 sq metres and confirmed bookings for 2011 already reflect a five per cent uplift in exhibitors year-on-year.

Staged in Olympia’s Grand Hall in London, the exhibition attracts organisers representing events ranging from outdoor festivals to exhibitions, as well as contractors and suppliers in these fields.

Spokesman Sarah Brownlee said: “The UK event sector is in transition as we get ready to produce some of the highest profile events on the world stage, from the 2012 London Olympics and the Golden Jubilee along with the eponymous Glastonbury.

“The Event Production Show has long been known for its audience of pedigree buyers and we are looking forward to widening the reach of the audience to include sponsorship managers and in-bound European buyers as they seek to capitalise on the UK’s decade ahead.”

The show take place at London’s Olympia from February 2-3 2011.

NOEA focuses on issues facing industry NOEA will also be holding a session at the Event Production Show, focusing on a number of issues currently facing the industry.

The session – entitled Green, Safe and Legal - are you? – takes place on Wednesday February 2 between 10.00am – 12.00pm.

The schedule includes: John Probyn, Harvey Goldsmith and Wayne Hemingway will be among the keynote speakers at The Event Production Show’s Access Sessions.

They will also be joined by Jamie Oliver and his Fabulous Feasts team which include Glen Chadwick and David Hornby.

Speakers at the event will be looking at issues such as legislation, ticket touting and cashless festivals at the show, which takes place in February at London’s Olympia.

Welcome and Introduction – Rob Corp, special events manager, Cardiff Council Who carries the can when things go wrong? – Philip Day, solicitor, Horsey Lightly Fynn The challenges of street parties for Local Authorities – Rob Corp

How sustainable is your event? – Michael Bell, Bellensen Associates Lord Young – Is he right? does health and safety stifle creativity? – Richard Limb, Capita Symonds, president of NOEA The Role of the Local Authority Event Organisers Group (LAEOG) – Andy Grove, events officer, Basingstoke & Deane Borough Council If anyone wishes to raise a particular issue, please let NOEA know in advance.

For further information and to book places please email NOEA at:secretary@noea.org.uk

Show goes green ...

THE Event Production Show is going green – with a wave of new environmentally friendly exhibitors confirming their presence.

These include ticketing supplier Brown Paper Tickets and Ascot Structures – manufacturer of the UK’s first series of environmentally friendly structures – Bamboo Tents.

Spokesman Sarah Brownlee added: “Going green and CSR are at the top of the agenda, subsequently our visitors are looking for solutions across the event spectrum; be it tickets, marquees, toilets or catering.

“As the exhibition is targeted directly to event producers, we are encouraging sustainable products to get involved as we get ready for one of the UK’s biggest decades in live events.”

Exhibitor Sunbaba: providing a service that amazes EVENT branding specialists Sunbaba will be exhibiting at the Event Production Show in February, for their 12th year.

Showcasing their full range of products, providing information and offering advice on the most appropriate printed branding for your events, Sunbaba’s core value of providing a

service that amazes will be on full view.

Keen and committed to reducing the environmental impact of their products, staff will be on hand to suggest sustainable alternatives and discuss their new material reprocessing scheme in partnership with the TREEHUGGER Truck Service.

This service enables us to collect any unwanted recyclable materials, following events in and around the London area, and reprocess the materials to be used again.

Sunbaba is a crucial stop for any event organiser passionate to reduce the environmental impact of their events, and will be assisted by our

team, to make recycling unwanted branding as straight forward and hassle free as possible.

Emphasising their problem solving capabilities, the stand will have a Rubix theme, showcasing some of our favourite past projects, so make sure you stop by and check it out.

17

21/12/10

15:07

Page 1

NOEA

17

NOEA holds successful AGM and regional conference at Bucks New Uni

Holiday Inn Birmingham Airport

NOEA ANNUAL CONVENTION Holiday Inn Birmingham Airport February 23 – 24 2011 Challenge the Convention – Collaborate: Create: Control The barefoot entrepreneur takes on NOEA Our key note speaker this year is the Barefoot entrepreneur Robert Ashton.

Best-selling business author and social entrepreneur Robert Ashton is a man who challenges convention.

He sees things differently and questions the status quo.

What other people have said about Robert: “I like Robert – he's a humanscale entrepreneur on a talk-circuit dominated by supposedly superhuman entrepreneurs who most of us find it hard to relate to. He talks a lot of sense.”

Rob Greenland, Social Business Consulting There are various sponsorship packages available from the Gold Package at £2,000 which includes sponsorship of an award, stand space and two delegate places with overnight accommodation to the Bronze package at £750.

If you are interested in becoming involved at the convention and you do not need to be NOEA member to sponsor we would like to hear from you.

Four independent judges have been chosen to choose the winners for the NOEA Award.

Adam Parry – Event Industry News Manchesterbased Adam Parry is no stranger to NOEA, having worked for over two years on NOEA’s official magazine, The Main Event.

Adam now works for Event Industry News (EIN). EIN offers busy event professionals the facility to access the latest news 24 hours a day via the Internet.

“I feel privileged that I’ve been asked to be part of the judging panel and very much look forward to working with NOEA on their 2011 awards.”

Neil Marcus – director, Red Man Events Neil has worked in the event industry since leaving school back in 1979.

He set up Red Man Events in 1998, an event management partnership working for a wide range of clients worldwide and specialising in large-scale projects. Red Man prides itself in making the events it works on stand out from the crowd. In addition Neil has been lecturing at Degree level and Masters, and is currently with The University of Wales Institute, Cardiff.

Hugh Edwin Jones – Gwynedd Council Hugh began his working career in the entertainment industry in 1974, when he joined the ‘National Theatre of Wales’ as a trainee technician. In 1978 he moved into theatre management.

He joined Gwynedd Council in 1992 as the first film commissioner in Wales. In 2000 he was appointed Gwynedd Council’s first events commissioner, and became its first chief executive. In 2010 he acted as project manager for Gwynedd Council for the 2010 BBC Radio 1 Big Weekend. Hugh is also a member of the Executive Board of Local Authority Events Organisers Group (LAEOG) Jane Russen – Star Events Group Jane Russen joined Star Events, or Star Hire as it was then in April 1994 as sales administrator.

In January 1999 Jane was promoted to sales manager and in 2003 became director of the mobile stages where she is now director of group sales with international partners in Spain and Italy with Star Events Group China, being a wholly owned subsidiary of Star Events Group.

NOEA held their Annual General Meeting and regional conference at Bucks New Uni, with a view to highlighting the importance of involving undergraduates in work experience with companies to promote and uphold the future of the event industry.

Those who attended braved the threat of imminent heavy snow to make it to High Wycombe for a prompt start.

The conference, hosted by president Richard Limb, incorporated presentations from Sheila Russell of Derby University, Steve Ruffle from Safechild and Philip Day of Horsey Lightly Fynn.

A group of eight students studying a range of event management courses at the University assisted in the planning and running of the conference, gaining valuable experience in both management and networking.

The conference incorporated presentations around student involvement in the industry, from both the view of Sheila Russell, who works within the industry, and two final year Event and Festival Management undergraduates, Emily Eaton and Sarah Dunham, who also spoke about their experiences on placements and how to, in their eyes, further improve student/industry links.

Other presentations included a five point plan on safeguarding children and vulnerable adults at events and within organisations and an outline of what the new amendments to the Licensing Act could mean for the industry.

While the AGM was held for the NOEA members, the students who helped to put together the conference were given the opportunity to sit and speak with the other delegates, which all involved found very insightful.

Diary dates February 2 and 3 2011 – Event Production Show, Olympia February 23 – 24 2011 Annual convention, Holiday Inn Birmingham Airport March 11 – Main Event Glasgow Tbc April Wales Conference Tbc Sept/Oct Northern Ireland Conference

Contact details: Susan Tanner PO Box 4495, Wells.

BA5 9AS. (T) 01749 674 531 (E) secretary@noea.org.uk

18 365

21/12/10

15:22

Page 1

2

365 - SUPPLIER DIRECTORY

Access Control

Event Hire

Ticket Alternative UK ltd Unit 333 Ashley Rd, London N17 9LN T: 0800 011 2894 E: orders@ticketalternative.co.uk www.ticketalternative.co.uk

Elliott – Event Hire St Georges House Rearsby Business Park Rearsby Leicester LE47 4YH T: 0800 1313314 E: events@elliottuk.com www.elliott.com

Audio Visual Arcstream AV Unit 22 Nonsuch Industrial Estate Kiln Lane Epsom Surrey KT17 1DH T: 01372 742 682 M: 07813 825 215 F: 01372 737 279 E: neil.m@arcstreamav.com www.arcstreamav.com

Bars

Eagle Event Bars 58-60 Vicarage House Kensington Church Street Kensington London W8 4DB T: 0207 368 3344 M: 07790 614401 E: dyrig@eaglehospitality.co.uk www.eaglehospitality.co.uk

Backline & PA Hire Sensible Music Group 90-96 Brewery Road London N7 9NT T: 020 7700 9900 F: 020 7700 4802 E: studio@sensible-music.co.uk www.sensible-music.co.uk

Car and Van rental Arnold Clark Rental Head Office Kerse Road Stirling FK7 7RU T:01786 468 700 E: car.rental.sales@arnoldclark.co.uk www.arnoldclarkrental.com

CCTV Hire 2CL Communications Ltd Unit C, Woodside Trade Centre Parham Drive Eastleigh Hampshire SO50 4NU T: 0800 389 2278 F: 02380 720038 E: sales@2cl.co.uk www.2cl.co.uk

Crowd Management Specialized Security 4 Fairways Business Park Deer Park Livingston EH54 8AF T: 01506 442255 E: tom@specializedsecurity.co.uk www.specializedsecurity.co.uk

Event Branding Principle Group 2270 Silverstone Technology Park Silverstone Circuit Northants NN12 8TN T: 01327 858 614 F: 01327 858 287 www.principle-group.co.uk

Event Power BRM Productions Canalside Industrial Park Kinoulton Road Cropwell Bishop Notts NG12 3BE T: 0115 989 9955 M: 07860 285305 F: 0115 989 9977 E: power@brm-productions.co.uk

Event Production Ethix Management 100 Kingsgate Road West Hampstead London NW6 2JG T: 0207 691 1960 E: enquiries@ethixmanagement.com www.ethixmanagement.com

Fireworks 21cc Fireworks Hopetoun Sawmill Hopetoun Estates Edinburgh EH30 9SL T: 0800 612 4509 E: info@21ccfireworks.co.uk www.21ccfireworks.com

Insurance Services ARC International St. Clare House 30-33 Minories London EC3N 1PE T: +44 (0) 207 977 7630 F: +44 (0) 207 977 7631 E: twaller@arc-int.co.uk Event Insurance Services Limited Event House 20A Headlands Business Park Ringwood BH24 3PB T: 01425 470360 E: info@events-insurance.co.uk www.events-insurance.co.uk Robertson Taylor 33 Harbour Exchange Square London E14 9GG T: 020 7510 1234 E: enquiries@rtib.co.uk www.Robertonson-taylor.com

Marquees Danco Plc The Pavilion Centre Frog Lane Coalpit Heath Bristol BS36 2NW Tel: 01454 250 222 Fax: 01454 250 444 www.danco.co.uk GD Marquee Hire Western Brake Tedburn St Mary Exeter EX6 6EY T: 01647 24455 E: info@gdhire.com www.gdhire.com GL events Snowdens Second Drove Eastern Industry Fengate Peterborough PE1 5XA T: 01733 344110 F: 01733 314985 E: info@snowdens.co.uk www.snowdens.co.uk

Marquee Stakes Staging and Accessories Ansell Hand Tools 72 Catley Road Darnall Sheffield S9 5JF T: 0114 244 8098 E: ansellhandtools@aol.com www.ansellhandtools.co.uk

Medical Management SP Services (UK) Ltd Unit D4, Hortonpark Estate Hortonwood 7 Telford Shropshire TF1 7GX T: 01952 288 999 F: 01952 606 112 E: sales@spservices.co.uk www.spservices.co.uk Paramedico No 1a Storage unit Tannery close Croydon Industrial Estate Beckenham, Kent BR3 4BY T: 02086565956 M: 07515287962 E: events@paramedico.info www.paramedico.info

Portable Kitchens PKL Group (UK) Ltd, Stella Way Bishops Cleeve Cheltenham Gloucestershire GL52 7DQ T: 01242 663000 E: postbox@pkl.co.uk www.pkl.co.uk

Revolving Stages Movetech UK A division of British Turntable Co Ltd Emblem Street Bolton BL3 5BW T: 01204 537682 E: rental@movetechuk.com www.movetechuk.com/rental The Revolving Stage Company Ltd Unit F5, Little Heath Industrial Estate Old Church Road Coventry CV6 7ND T: 024 7668 7055 E:enquiries@therevolvingstagecompany.co.uk

Reusable Cup Systems The Incredible Cup Company Ltd 41 Mitchell Street London EC1V 3QD T: 0207 780 7137 F: 0207 253 7165 E: Lucy@brand-width.net www.icupco.com

Daytona Stage Hire P.O. Box 43 Huddersfield HD8 9YU T: 01484 605555 M: 07889 132580 F: 01484 602806 E: daytonastagehire@mac.com www.daytonastagehire.com Steeldeck Rentals Ltd Unit 58 T.Marchant Estate 42-72 Verney Road London SE16 3DH T: 020 7833 2031 E: richard@steeldeck.co.uk www.steeldeck.co.uk

The Stage Bus 19 Prestwood Road Weoley Castle Birmingham B29 5EB T: 0121 603 8367 M: 07738 900 762 E info@thestagebus.com www.thestagebus.com

Trade Associations NOEA Susan Tanner PO Box 4495 WELLS. BA5 9AS T: 01749 674 531 E: secretary@NOEA.org.uk www.noea.org.uk

Toilets Eventloos.com 12a Bold Industrial Park Neil’s Road St Helens Merseyside WA9 4TU T: 0845 544 0513 E: info@eventloos.com www.eventloos.com

Venues Wicksteed Park Ltd. Barton Road Kettering Northants NN15 6NJ T: 01536 512475 F: 01536 518948 E: info@wicksteedpark.co.uk www.wicksteedpark.co.uk

Walkie Talkies 2CL Communications Ltd Unit C, Woodside Trade Centre Parham Drive Eastleigh Hampshire SO50 4NU T: 0800 389 2278 F: 02380 720038 E: sales@2cl.co.uk www.2cl.co.uk Wall to Wall Communications Unilink House 21 Lewis Road Sutton, Surrey SM1 4BR T:020 8770 1007 F:020 8770 9700 E:hire@walltowallcomms.co.uk www.walltowallcomms.co.uk

Sound & Lighting Water supplies Stage Electrics Third Way Avonmouth Bristol BS11 9YL T: 0844 870 0077 F: 0117 916 2828 sales@stage-electrics.co.uk www.stage-electrics.co.uk

Water Direct Ltd B-26 Earls Colne Business Park Earls Colne Colchester Essex CO6 2NS T: 0845 345 1725 F: 01787 223354 E: enquiries@water-direct.co.uk www.water-direct.co.uk

19Classi

21/12/10

15:22

Page 1

CLASSIFIED EVENT BRANDING

19

EVENT CLEANING

FAIRGROUNDS

TOILET HIRE WASTE MANAGEMENT

MEDICAL

CATERING

RADIO HIRE

The Event Medicine Company Unit D, Central Estate, Albert Road, Aldershot, Hampshire GU11 1SZ Tel: 01252 313005 Email: info@eventmedicinecompany.co.uk www.eventmedicinecompany.co.uk

BARS

EVENT HIRE

BALLOONS

PORTABLE ROADWAY

FESTIVALS

SILENT DISCO

LARGE SCREEN HIRE

STAGE HIRE

RECYCLING

HEATING & COOLING

20 - Derby

21/12/10

14:58

Page 1