UK - Network Audio, one of the UK's leading sound hire companies, signalled its commitment to growing its presence in the exhibition and events market with the launch of 'Network AV' in January 2004. Network Audio's no compromise approach to equipment specification and technical expertise has won favour with many blue chip companies and major artists alike. Previous clients have included British Airways, Carl Cox, Fat Boy Slim, Ford, Rolex, The Saudi Royal Family, Virgin Group, Vodaphone and the BBC.

Network AV provides specialist audio visual services for exhibition features, conferences and other major public events. Unique to the company's offer is its breadth of in-house expertise. Focusing on critical sound, light, video and effects production, the company provides a range of services to enhance any event feature.

Within its portfolio, Network AV offers both live and studio production elements in sound, video and special effects. The practical implications of these services are significant because the company can undertake both creative and technical production seamlessly, from concept to final delivery.

It was this breadth of in-house competence that secured Network AV its inaugural contract in early January - audio-visual production for the British Eurosport Live Action Arena and the Formula One Grid at Autosport International at the NEC. One week later, following studio preparation of music, video and graphics, the team produced the British Racing and Sports Car Club (BRSCC) annual awards ceremony at the Brewery in the City.

The call from Autosport International, the annual trade and public show for the British motorsport industry, came in mid-October and the company had to respond rapidly with a package including both hardware and creative solutions with little over four weeks clear lead time. Network AV were part of a production team brought in at short notice following a late change to the overall production brief. Brighton-based RAH Productions, managed the creative production and choreographed the show. Network AV worked closely with RAH to provide dynamic hardware and audio-visual solutions to deliver their plans and enhance the show's appeal.

The British Eurosport Live Action Arena occupied Hall Four of the NEC in its entirety. A 5,000 seat grandstand ran along the left hand side of the hall, leaving the remaining space for a purpose built oval race track. The 45-minute live action shows, featured components such as a theatrical opening sequence, races from numerous formulas, displays of trick driving techniques, classic machines, BRISCA F1 Stock Cars, several set piece dance routines and a finale of screaming wheels and tyre smoke with a mixed bag of 'doughnuts' - the art of spinning cars and shredding rubber.

For Network AV, the Live Action Arena project included the provision of all hardware, technical management and creative content production. In addition to the Live Action Arena, Network AV installed sound, light and a replica start light system for the Formula One Grid exhibit, in the main show hall. Managing director Nick Halliday oversaw the technical specificaton personally and managed the installation.

(Lee Baldock)


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