MTV EMA 2024 Manchester From moving LED constructions to three unique stages: A behind-the-scenes look at production

Industrial stage design by Nathan Paul Taylor

The stage design this year was handled by designer Nathan Paul Taylor, known for creating events and live performances that continually push audience expectations. Taylor designed an industrial look for the setting, inspired by Manchester’s rich industrial history. This theme came to life through ‘steel support structures’ recurring in multiple places on the set, giving the stage a robust industrial aesthetic. His design offered a flexible and versatile platform where visuals and music fully converged.

Flexibility and collaborative thinking

The complex preparation and execution of this project demanded meticulous planning and teamwork. The Faber team had been preparing for months, adjusting the design and technical implementation at each stage to meet changing requirements. In total, 12 technicians built everything in five days.

LED and visualization at the highest level

The entire set consisted of three different stages, where awards were presented, artists performed, and the host presented the event. This setup created a dynamic experience for both the audience in the venue and the viewers at home.

Factory Stage

The first stage, the Factory Stage, was equipped with an impressive 275 m² backdrop, built from ROE Black Quartz 3.9 panels. This background offered a grand visual setting for performances and presentations. Additionally, the Factory Stage had a glossy floor with LED floors on the left and right, totaling 32 m², constructed from ROE Black Marble 4 panels.

Central Stage

The second stage, the Central Stage, was located in the middle of the venue. This stage consisted of a large square LED floor, flanked by two LED catwalks on each side. A total of 150 m² of ROE Black Marble 4 panels were used for this stage. This provided extra show effects and unique top shots during live broadcasts.

Award Stage

The third stage, the Award Stage, was where awards were presented. For this stage, a 33 m² LED backdrop was created, built from ROE Black Quartz 3.9 panels. Additionally, this stage included a podium with integrated LED tiles.

Unique LED solutions for dynamic effects

Beyond the three stages, additional LED solutions were applied in the stage design. Unique were two large LED screens, each 63 m², built from ROE Black Quartz 4.6 panels, capable of moving up and down using a motion-control system. Moreover, the ‘steel support structures’ were fitted with LED, with four pillars also linked to a motion-control system. These video screens added spectacular show elements and enabled unique camera shots during live broadcasts.