Staging and spatial planning in a new era of live events

Due to the heavy impact of COVID-19 on the live events industry, spatial distancing will likely play a major role in how people attend sports competitions, live professional sports games and other sporting events in the coming months and years. In fact, it is quite possible that the pandemic will permanently alter the way we congregate and utilize public spaces and fundamentally reshape future design planning.

Already, there have been dramatic changes in the way people gather in public. Professional and amateur sports seasons have resumed either without fans in the stands or with limited attendance and strict social spacing. Once-crowded concert arenas have been replaced by streaming virtual performances and drive-in events with small groups watching from the distanced protection of their automobiles.

As the saying goes, “the show must go on” and venues of all types must find ways to continue operating if they are to survive. Among the most noteworthy trends that has emerged as a result of the pandemic is heightened interest in modular solutions. Modularity and flexibility are proving to be critical considerations as facilities like stadiums and arenas look to adapt their settings to adhere to new safety protocols. Facing an uncertain future, a growing number of specifiers are opting for non-permanent solutions that can be installed, tested and adjusted as needed based on evolving needs and criteria. These adaptable systems are also less costly than permanent options that require pouring concrete and can’t be changed.

Modular Staging

Staging is becoming increasingly modular for facilities of all types. Historically used for temporary needs, portable platforms are being incorporated more commonly into permanent installations to enhance flexibility and deliver long-term versatility. In sports venues, for instance, modular platforms combined with ramps and/or stairs are ideal for separating refreshment kiosks, merchandise tables and other guest services from the concourse floor.

Demand also is on the rise for camera platforms and stage extensions, as media crews need to be adequately spaced and accommodated in a whole new way. These modular components offer convenient and cost-effective solutions for expanding any presentation area. Another attractive option is a mobile stage. Built on retractable casters, these portable systems can be easily moved within a location completely assembled, saving both time and manpower. 

Flexible Seating

In light of spatial concerns, sports complexes also are seeking flexible seating solutions. Designed with versatility in mind, semi-permanent seating risers can be easily set up in numerous configurations using the same components, making them ideal for adhering to spacing requirements and optimizing sight lines. These systems also enhance usability and profitability by enabling a venue to accommodate a range of events and audiences.

Texas Christian University (TCU), for example, added all new seating risers and club seating to its basketball arena to enhance the game atmosphere for fans. While these seating areas have a “permanent” feel, facility staff have the option of dismantling and moving them into and out of storage based on the format and capacity needs of different events. 

Already on the rise prior to the pandemic, VIP sections designed to offer patrons more personal space are now serving as templates for a new era of event spectating. Take, for instance, the new VIP Pavilion at Citi Field, home to the New York Mets. Initially intended to offer a premium, more spacious viewing option, this area is ideally suited for the anticipated distancing requirements driven by the pandemic. The seating system, engineered by Staging Concepts, includes 18 platforms with custom railing and aluminum enclosures and four sets of stair units. Offering plenty of room to accommodate larger groups, the platform stage deck also features a drink rail bolted to the concrete flooring and glass rail along the front of the pavilion to optimize views and spectator safety.

Commonwealth Stadium in Alberta, Canada, home to the CFL’s Edmonton Eskimos, also recently added an innovative riser system designed to create premium viewing options with added elbow room. Standard stadium seats in two main sections were removed and replaced with specialized viewing decks that increase the physical space for each individual spectator from 4.5 square feet to approximately 8 square feet. 

Looking Ahead

Without question, COVID-19 has led to a cultural shift that is requiring the entire live events industry to reimaginethe public gathering experience for patrons. The many modular and customizable staging and seating options available today can help make appropriate spatial planning achievable for a new era by offering the flexibility and versatility needed for fans to safely return to the stands and enjoy the incomparable excitement of live sports.

Cindy Albrecht (calbrecht@stagingconcepts.com) is director of sales and marketing with Minneapolis-based Staging Concepts (www.stagingconcepts.com).