The pit for security personnel was also slightly deeper because of the thrust, but the fact that the festival management had invested in putting down hard standing in front of the stage since the previous years’ festival meant our load in and out were much easier, with less ground damage from plant to deal with.”Īlso joining the Mojo Barriers UK team at Download was Costa Chaparov as crew chief. This is where experience becomes invaluable. “This year we also had to accommodate Aerosmith’s 15m thrust coming off the front of the mainstage, which meant looking at the downstage edge curves very carefully to avoid any pinch points, while retaining the original width of the thrust. The layout also allows the audience a choice of areas and a safe event without being too restrictive. Our primary front of stage curved barrier has a central thrust back to front of house, and two secondary ‘arms’ that allow the security improved access to the audience. While very good natured, we also considered this is a very boisterous audience who like to get their mosh pits and circles going, all of which led us to a unique lay-out. “We have developed a very particular barrier configuration for the main stage, accounting in particular for the sloping ground stage right, the very wide sight line, along with the need for the incoming productions to get easy access to the front of house. We have a lot of planning discussions to look at the crowd dynamics and create the best barrier design. “I enjoy a great relationship with the Festival Republic team supporting Live Nation it’s always been a high priority for Melvin Benn and John Probyn to deliver a safe festival. Gaffney said: “I have managed the design and installation of the stage barriers at Download Festival since it began in 2003, where Mojo Barriers has always been the system of choice. Mojo’s presence at the UK edition of Download from June 9 – 11 heralded the return of Jim Gaffney, the company’s Senior Account Manager.

EUROPE: Mojo Barriers was contracted to install over 2,000m of front of stage and bar barriers at three Download Festivals across Europe in June.Įach country’s Live Nation division were the promoters and clients, bringing in Mojo to keep fans safe through three days of performances by the world’s top rock bands.

Download enlisted