Planning an event is just like putting together a giant puzzle. Each piece has to fit perfectly to create a memorable experience. One of the most important pieces?
The stage.
Whether it’s for a corporate event, a concert, a wedding, or a school play, a temporary stage sets the scene for unforgettable moments.
Here’s a jaw-dropping fact to kick things off:
The Rolling Stones’ 2006 “A Bigger Bang” tour featured a temporary stage that cost over £4 million to build, spanning nearly 200 feet.
That’s the power of a stage to create history.
Furthermore, did you know that well-designed stages can drastically enhance audience engagement? Studies show that 75% of event attendees rank stage design as one of the top factors contributing to their overall experience.
And let’s not forget a poorly designed stage can lead to chaos, just like the infamous U.S festival stage collapse caused by bad weather. This highlights the significance of smart and safe planning.
But how do you choose the right stage setup? Let’s dive straight into it.
Why temporary stages are a game changer
Temporary stages are incredibly versatile. They can be set up anywhere, from sprawling fields to hotel ballrooms. Here’s why they are a smart choice:
- Customisable: Can match your event theme, from edgy to elegant.
- Cost-effective: You pay only for what you need, with no long-term commitments.
- Flexibility: Adaptable to any size and location.
- Enhanced safety features: Designed with modular construction, they ensure stability and meet safety standards regardless of terrain.
- Quick setup and removal: Temporary stages can be assembled and disassembled in record time, minimising downtime at the venue.
| Did you know? The largest temporary stage ever built, accommodating over 5 million people, was for Pope John Paul II’s visit to Manila in 1995. |
Types of temporary stages
Choosing the appropriate type of stage depends on your event. Here are some popular options:
1. Flat deck stages
- Simple and sleek.
- Provides a clean and polished look for professional settings.
- Often used for fashion shows and presentations.
2. Truss stages
- Suitable for events with elaborate audiovisual needs.
- Durable and great for large events.
- It can support heavy lighting and sound equipment.
3. Mobile stages
- Equipped with built-in weather protection features.
- Built on trailers for quick setups.
- Ideal for outdoor concerts and rallies.
4. Modular stages
- Versatile design allows customisation for unique layouts.
- Commonly used for conferences and community events.
- Easy to assemble and adjust.
- Perfect for small to medium-sized events.
| Pro Tip: When planning an outdoor event, always check the weather forecast. Add weatherproofing to your stage setup if there is any chance of rain. |
Key factors to consider
A great stage does not just look good. It’s also safe and functional. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Accessibility: Ensure railings and ramps are included for ease of use and safety.
- Equipment weight: Are you using heavy lights or screens? Truss stages are better for supporting extra weight.
- Venue conditions: Is the ground levelled? Will the stage be on concrete, grass, or indoors? Your supplier can recommend the best fit.
- Audience size: How many people are attending? Larger audiences need bigger and sturdier stages.
Budgeting for a temporary stage
Temporary stages come in all shapes and sizes, and so do their prices. Here’s a breakdown of typical costs.
| Stage type | Average cost (per day) |
| Modular stage | £ 250 – £500 |
| Mobile stage | £750 – £1500 |
| Truss stage | £1000 – £5000 |
| Flat deck stage | £200 – £400 |
| Pro tip: Book early to secure better deals, especially during peak event seasons. Always inquire about additional costs such as setup fees and delivery. |
Safety first
Safety is not optional when it comes to staging. Always:
- Have a backup plan for unexpected weather.
- Ensure weight distribution is balanced.
- Check for proper anchoring in outdoor setups.
- Use certified stage suppliers.
- Conduct a pre-event safety inspection to address any last-minute risks.
Real-life case study
A great example of how temporary stages can improve an event is the Henley Festival’s partnership with Arena Group. This festival combines music and art, and in 2015, Arena Group added something special. A new seating area in front of the main stage.
This new section gave the audience comfortable seats with amazing views of performances by artists like Lionel Richie and Jessie J. It made guests happier and even helped the festival earn more money by charging for the upgraded seating.
The Arena Group worked quickly to set everything up between events, showing how flexible and reliable they are.
This example shows how a good temporary stage provider can make an event more fun for the audience and more successful for the organisers.
The right partner makes all the difference
Finding a reliable stage provider is crucial. They should:
- Prioritise compliance and safety.
- Offer custom solutions for your event.
- Provide experienced staff for setup and teardown.
- Have a track record of successful events similar to yours.
- Be transparent about costs, including potential add-ons or extra services.
Real-life example:
A notable example of the impact of partnering with a reliable temporary stage provider is the collaboration between The National Park Service and StageRight Corporation during the 2019 National Cherry Blossom Festival in Washington, D.C.
To accommodate the massive crowds and unpredictable spring weather, the organisers relied on StageRight’s expertise to provide a high-quality, flexible stage that enhanced safety and audience engagement. The result was a seamless performance execution, with attendees praising the overall experience. This partnership highlights how effective staging solutions can significantly contribute to the success of large-scale events.
Hence, working with a professional also saves you stress and time. You can focus on the fun parts of event planning while experts handle the technicalities. Whether it’s a small community play or a grand music festival, a good provider makes the process seamless as well as hassle-free. With their expertise, you will create an event that people will be talking about for years to come.
Time to take centre stage
Now that you are familiar with the basics of temporary stages, it’s high time to bring your vision to life. Picture a stage that not only meets your needs but exceeds your expectations, creating a moment that stays in the hearts of the people forever.
Whether it is a concert that rocks the crowd or a wedding that warms hearts, the appropriate stage can make all the difference.
Need help with planning your event? Contact our team today for expert advice and tailored stage solutions.
