Behind-the-scenes analysis of technology utilized during Peter Maffay's Farewell Tour
In the sweltering summer of '24, the rock 'n' roll world said a bittersweet goodbye to legend Peter Maffay, a titan of German music. After more than half a century of chart-topping hits and electric performances, the "We Love Rock'n'Roll - Farewell" tour was concluded with a technological bang. The sheer scale of the event required top-tier technology to make Maffay's exit truly unforgettable. Let's delve into the technology that made the tour a visual spectacle and the challenges faced by the team led by lighting designer Günter Jäckle and production manager Bernie Haefner.
Stage design: the tour's visual identity
The joint efforts of lighting designer Günter Jäckle, production manager Bernie Haefner, and set designer Fritze Krauch resulted in a stage set that highlighted clear, symbolic shapes. The "M" symbol incorporated into the stage was emphasized by video-equipped set construction elements and the musicians' risers. Overall, this created a resonating visual identity amidst a show heavily dominated by video content.
To cater to the massive video content, the tour relied on the technology's integration, which placed specific demands on the lighting. With around 600 square meters of video space, the team had to strike a balance between audience and live camera imaging. This necessitated inventive solutions from the lighting design team, who utilized state-of-the-art technology to strike the perfect balance.
Emphasis on adaptability and intensity
The tour's success revolved around tried-and-true, state-of-the-art equipment from GLP. The treasure trove included 80 impression X5 Wash and 20 impression X5 IP Bars. The washlights were deployed across the entire stage on four trusses suspended from the stage roof, as well as the front truss frames. The IP bars were strategically positioned on the stage floor to recreate the "M" shape for stadium spectators.
A significant factor in selecting the X5 series was the immense brightness of the devices, but it was more than just illumination. The impression X5s also served as stylistic elements in the stage roof, casting rich colors and acting as blinders to immerse at least the first 50 meters of the audience area in captivating shades. Furthermore, the high output and vibrant colors of the impression X5 IP Bars enabled atmospheric design rather than just pure effect lighting.
Daylight and weather challenges: Reliable performance under duress
A unique aspect of the tour was its open-air nature, which meant that many concerts were staged under the harsh glare of daylight or residual daylight. This required the lighting team to adapt the light quality for live cameras while preserving high image quality on the video walls. Avoiding tonal imbalances and ensuring vibrant colors under natural light posed a significant challenge for the lighting design team.
In addition, the tour encountered unpredictable weather, which tested the equipment's limits. Despite the inclement weather, the resilient impression X5 IP bars delivered impressive performance—a nod to their durability. This remarkable demonstration of reliability underscored the technology's prowess.
FOLLOW-ME 3D SIX: Groundbreaking tracking for a dynamic show
One innovative highlight of the technical equipment was the FOLLOW-ME 3D SIX system, a traditional followspot alternative. This flexible tracking system enabled precise artist tracking without the need for conventional followspots, enhancing the show's dynamic appeal. Importantly, it created a seamless lighting experience using moving lights in the rig, promoting flexibility and unparalleled adaptability.
The FOLLOW-ME 3D SIX system was competently operated by Christian "Rocketchris" Glatthor.
Collaboration - the foundation of a technical triumph
The technical success of Peter Maffay's farewell tour was largely the result of close collaboration with trusted partners. PRG Germany supplied the lighting system, satis&fy took care of the sound system, and epicto GmbH supervised the video work to ensure flawless staging of the extensive video content.
A technical tour-de-force: the perfect send-off
Peter Maffay's farewell tour transcended just music; it also marked a significant milestone in technical achievement—the crowning conclusion of a career spanning over five decades. The marriage of cutting-edge technology, innovation, and experienced partners ensured an unforgettable visual and technical experience. Günter Jäckle's team masterfully tackled the challenges brought on by an outdoor summer tour, and the "We Love Rock'n'Roll - Farewell" tour will long be remembered by Maffay fans as a fitting farewell.
The lighting technology, specifically the utilization of 80 impression X5 Wash and 20 impression X5 IP Bars, played a pivotal role in the tour's visual spectacle, delivering both illumination and stylistic elements for the stage.
The FOLLOW-ME 3D SIX system, an advanced tracking system that provided precise artist tracking without the need for conventional followspots, contributed to the tour's dynamic visual aesthetic, offering unparalleled flexibility and adaptability.
