To execute a successful event, a huge deal of planning is involved. An essential and large part of this planning is event design. They range from layout and seating arrangement to decor and fabrications. The stage acts as the epicentre or the focal point of any event, with the whole layout usually designed directing toward it. Hence, stage designing becomes a vital part of the system.

The technique of incorporating production components into a presenting venue is known as event stage design. The objective is to enhance the overall audience experience while making the stage look its best. Stage designing depends on the nature and type of event as well as the kind of audience. Let’s look at some of the things to keep in mind while designing an event stage:

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Event stage design_©Paul Warchol

Layout of stage | Event Stage

Designing a stage with clear entry and exit for the speakers or participants becomes essential. It ensures obstruction-free movement. Many events also require specific furniture arrangements like seating spaces, sofas, chairs, tables for displaying things etc. It is important to design the layout so that there is ample space between these furniture places to move and transport items if required.

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Stage layout_© Pinterest

Stage height

Choosing the correct height or elevation for the stage, keeping in mind the audience’s line of sight, becomes a deciding factor in a good stage design. 1.5 ft above ground level is considered a standard height, but it can be as high as five ft. depending on the strength of the audience. 

Acoustics | Event Stage

Effective acoustic design should also be taken care of. Sound should be evenly distributed across the space. Speakers should be placed at regular intervals to ensure all regions are covered, depending on the size of the crowd.

Audience as the centre

The audience should be given the utmost priority and their point of view should be taken into account while designing the stage. To ensure that the audience has a good view, one should carefully place the speakers, the screen, and any other props. Highlighting elements should be provided for the main people on the stage. It is also advised to consider the demographics of the audience and design accordingly.

Declutter | Event Stage

Wires, cables, and power points should be planned in a matter that the stage looks clutter-free and makes the event the focal point for the audience. It helps in making the audience draw their full attention to the performances.

Theme and look of the stage

Depending on the event the stage should be decorated. Creative stage design along with keeping a theme in mind aids in giving an idea to the audience that what the event is about. For example, an event for a particular brand can have a huge logo for the same in the backdrop or for any cultural event, elements can be showcased through props or banners. For a theme revolving around nature, the stage can have some plants. This makes sure that the stage has an identity of its own which results in helping to accentuate the performers and be engaging with the audience. But care should be taken to strike a balance and not overcrowd the stage with these elements.

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Event stage design theme_© Stufish

Placing the screen 

One big mistake that is usually very common while stage designing is placing the screen and projector in a way that obstructs the performers. One should remember to try to keep the screen placed in such a manner that it is well above human height and doesn’t cast its shadow on screens.

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Screens in event stage design_©Pinterest

Lighting design | Event Stage

Spaces can be radically changed by adding captivating lighting to your stage. Lighting the stage enough so that performers can move freely and giving highlighting lights to the key speakers or users of the stage providing them emphasis is something one should remember while designing the lighting system for the stage. While designing the lighting one should also keep in mind that it doesn’t interfere with the screens at the backdrop of the stage. Lighting can alter the whole mood of the event and hence it is essential to use the warm or cold lights accordingly. 

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Lighting design of stage_©http://3dstagedesign.com/

Seating arrangement

Generating a layout which gives ample space between the stage and seating area as well as gives room for movement is a vital part to remember while designing an event stage. Mapping out the arrangement while taking care of potential obstacles results in a functional space design and a successful event. The seating arrangement should be such that it gives the audience a clear view of the stage. The seats could be elevated in an ascending manner for achieving the same.

Incorporating technologies | Event Stage

One could incorporate new technologies to uplift the experience of the audience. For example, digital banners or tech-enabled backdrops for the stage. The stages could have hydraulic systems depending on the type of the event which adds up to the interactive factor of the whole design. When visiting an event, attendees want to be astounded and inspired by cutting-edge technologies and exhibits.

Incorporating technologies_© Stufish

References:

  1. Youtube.com. 2022. [online] Available at: <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UYOBCTqZY-Y&ab_channel=TEDxTalks> [Accessed 26 June 2022].
  2. Ted.com. 2022. Design the experience. [online] Available at: <https://www.ted.com/participate/organize-a-local-tedx-event/tedx-organizer-guide/venue-spaces/design-the-experience> [Accessed 26 June 2022].
  3. Social Tables. 2022. Event Stage Design: The Complete Guide | Social Tables. [online] Available at: <https://www.socialtables.com/blog/meeting-event-design/event-stage-design/> [Accessed 26 June 2022].
  4. Pegasusevents.in. 2022. [online] Available at: <https://pegasusevents.in/8-impactful-ways-create-event-stage-design/> [Accessed 26 June 2022].
Author

An architect by profession, Soumya is a history enthusiast and an avid traveller who loves to capture buildings and pen down her architectural perspectives. She has a keen interest in analyzing the role of architecture in building a city as a whole. She believes in designing spaces where people can unravel and compose themselves.