Performing at Outside Events
Performing outside can be fun but it does bring up a number of issues that
need to be considered and taken into account. This advice has been compiled
from our own experiences:
Power
Where will
this come from? If you're close to a building then running mains leads to
the performance area is an option. You just need to ensure that you have
enough mains cables of sufficient length and a RCCB (residual current circuit breaker) for each
lead. You may also have to use safety cable covers if the leads are likely
to present a trip hazard as Gaffa tape doesn't work well on grass!
Another option is to hook up to a generator. This does bring up another
series of issues - will it be shared with other services (the caterers
perhaps)? You would also need a surge protection device if this isn't
already incorporated into the generator (if someone else using the feed
turns off a high consumption device it can cause a sudden spike in the power
which can in turn damage your own equipment). As portable generators are
not as reliable as the national grid you should also consider using an
un-interruptable power supply (UPS), especially if you have computer
equipment on stage.
Weather
You don't need me
to tell you that the UK weather is so unpredictable. You may set up under
blue skies but that heavy rain cloud could be just over the horizon. Having
a suitable rain cover is always a good idea and this needs to take into account that
rain rarely falls straight down from the sky so protection from both overhead
and
around the sides is essential. Plastic bin liners can be used as waterproof
speaker covers to great effect. When positioning equipment be aware that
digital displays can be hard to read in bright sunlight.
The temperature can drop quite
quickly too as the sun goes down. This can affect the tuning of instruments
and also make them harder to play with numb fingers. You may therefore need
to think about heating and also additional stage clothing for yourself.
Ground
Outside ground areas can be soft and/or
uneven and a firmer surface of boards may be required. The legs of a speaker
tripod stand can sink into soft ground, making the whole unit unstable and a
potential safety hazard. It also doesn't look cool performing in mud and
wearing wellies!
If playing off the back of an open-sided lorry, how stable is the flatbed
when band members start dancing? Gear stacks can become unstable and
microphones start punching you in the mouth.
Sound
Without walls for the
music to bounce off, your outside performance could sound a lot different to
normal. You may need to increase your mid and bass levels and also add a bit
of reverb to compensate. Wind direction can also affect what the audience hears (&
what you hear too). On-stage monitors can be less effective and you may need
to use in ear monitors. You could also find yourself competing with
local traffic, aircraft noise etc.
Access
When you're on a stage, the access to the performance area is usually
restricted. However, if you're in the middle of a field then you may need to
come up with ways to prevent unauthorised access 'from all sides'.
Breakdown
Will you have sufficient light to safely breakdown your equipment at the
end of the event? The generator hire company may pull the plug right after
your last encore so, unless you eat a lot of carrots, you may need some
battery powered lighting with you.
You may also find this useful:
Health & Safety Advice for Bands
Thanks to Mark Williams & Jim
Reynolds from the Essex
Cover Band Community for their additional advice included above
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