The Coronation Concert stage was designed for BBC Studios by STUFISH Entertainment Architects with a unique vision to respond and respect the site for this momentous occasion. For the first time in history, the East Terrace of Windsor Castle became the site for a spectacular show open to the public, celebrating the Coronation of His Majesty King Charles III.
// 2023
// Live Show
// Windsor Castle, UK
The design of the show aims to embrace the architecture of this historic location and create a stage that frames the beautiful Eastern Façade of the castle and gently envelops the parapet wall to highlight it as a main feature in the scenography.
Together with the parapet wall staircase in the centre, the staging creates multiple levels for a 70-piece orchestra and band in the form of an abstracted Union Jack. Four additional catwalks branch out of the flag geometry from the stage into the crowd to create further areas for performers and intriguing choreography. The main stage sits in front of the orchestra with a direct backdrop of the authentic site.
Above the stage rises a halo-like screen that envelops the roof and symbolizes The Crown protecting The Nation. As the sun began to set behind the castle, the façade became enlivened with projection and light, animating it in a way that the iconic building has never been seen before.
The stage has been designed and built almost entirely of rental stock to make it as efficient and as sustainable as possible.
The design has aimed to make the stage feel part of the existing architecture of the site and work seamlessly with it to highlight the historic context. The finishing cladding and tones have been specifically chosen to reflect and blend with the sandstone of the castle and parapet wall.
Credits
Stage Designers Stufish Director Julia Knowles Producers BBC Studios Creative Director Claire PopplewellExecutive Producers Mark Sidaway, Cheryl Ko Pearson Co-Executive Producers Chloe Mason, Cerrie Frost Project Director Steve Nolan Technical Director Malcolm Birkett Music Director Steve Sidwell Lighting Design Nigel Catmur Sound Design Ben Milton Choreography Matt Flint, Jerry Reeve Video & Projection North House Creative Stage Manager Melanie Carter Staging suppliers Star Live, Blackfriars, Blackout Video supplier Creative Technologies Drone show Sky Magic
