ELP, a trading division of White Light, recently supplied the lighting equipment for VE Day 75 – The People’s Celebration; a special BBC and Royal British Legion production which commemorated the 75th anniversary of VE Day and was watched by over eight million viewers.
The People’s Celebration was a programme featuring memories and music which honoured and celebrated the Second World War generation. Originally intended to take place at the Royal Albert Hall, this was no longer possible due to the nationwide lockdown. As such, it was decided it would instead go ahead within the grounds of Buckingham Palace, with the performers socially distanced from one another.
ELP was approached by Lighting Director Nigel Catmur to work on the event. Due to the unique circumstances in which the production was being made, the preparation time reduced from what would normally be several weeks to just 5 days from receiving the lighting plan and equipment spec to loading the trucks. Similarly, with the event being held in the grounds of Buckingham Palace, this would require increased levels of security. As such, ELP was able to draw on its extensive experience of working on several Royal events and ensure all necessary measures were adhered to.
As much as possible, the equipment needed to be IP rated for the potential wet weather. ELP supplied units such as SGM P5, SGM G-Spot, Chauvet Q40 and Elation 6Par 200IP. One particularly important set of fixtures were the Astera Titan tubes, which were placed amongst the orchestra and soloists and created an impressive effect across the Palace’s forecourt. Similarly, trusted favourites such as Arri Skypanel S60/C , Arri 2.5 MSR and tungsten 2K alongside a selection of ETC Source Fours with various lenses were also used to great effect.
Whilst most of the key lighting was from stands of various sizes, ranging from lowboys to 5 section Easylifts, there was also a substantial rig consisting of eight freestanding truss towers at 5m, providing a selection of orchestral, key and effect lighting, alongside fixings for the beautiful festoon and bunting.
As the natural light faded across the evening, Nigel’s lighting design came into its own, creating some beautiful and magical looks within the iconic setting of Buckingham Palace.
This was the first job to be completely prepped and loaded from WL’s warehouse in Wimbledon, which has now becoming a second base for ELP alongside the Space Studios in Manchester.
ELP’s Sales Director Darren Fletcher comments: “This was a fantastic production for us to work on. The equipment spec filled three trucks so we are really proud to have delivered this, especially when you consider the current restrictions on working practices, heightened security at Buckingham Palace along with the reduction in workforce. Ultimately, it’s a great example of how, even in these surreal times, we are still able to supply the high-standard technical solutions expected by production companies and broadcasters”.
Lighting Director – Nigel Catmur | Gaffer – Mark Gardiner
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