Stuart WoodLovebox and Citadel festivals were relocated this year, as Gunnersbury Park welcomed them both for the first time in mid-July.
Production needs for both festivals were handled by long-term contractors Pearce Hire, who supported the relocation with temporary power infrastructure and site lighting services.
Jake Vernum, project manager for Pearce Hire, said: “At Pearce Hire we relish a challenge, and know the team at MAMA Festivals well – this being our eighth year working with them on these festivals.
“With a well-established format for Lovebox and Citadel, we needed to ensure that we played our part in providing a seamless transition for these large events as they moved from Victoria Park, east London to the west.”
Detailed planning for power and lighting was critical, as Gunnersbury Park was an unknown quantity for hosting a major inner-city festival.
The undertaking was not insignificant, with seven stages, 15 bars and concession facilities, VIP areas, backstage working areas, production village (a small campsite for festival staff) and important brand sponsors to accommodate.
There were approximately 2,500 crew and staff across the site, to ensure that the 40,000 daily attendees were safe and well provided for.
Vernum continued: “As well as ensuring the site is safe and secure for the festival goers, we need to ensure our crew are safe and looked after. It’s long working hours, and in the exceptional weather this time, crew welfare becomes even more of a priority.”
MAMA Festival production director Dave McCalmont commented: “Pearce Hire’s professional approach to our brief is perfectly pitched. We’ve always considered them to be an integral part of our team, rather than an external contractor.
“You know that their attention to detail will ensure reliable service of the highest quality and they’ve been a big part of the planning in the venue change.”