Project Details
Client: Zoological Society London (ZSL)
Account Manager: Patrick O’Donnell
Project Managers: Dan Timmins and Alex Foy
Venue: London Zoo
1. THE BRIEF
Perception provided AV equipment for five different areas inside the zoo for Zoo Nights. These areas were:
– The Entrance jungle jazz soundscape, a simple system welcoming the audience.
– The Birds soundscape consisting of 16 waterproof speakers hidden in the bushes.
– The Main Lawn, where we had a DJ playing in front of acrobats on the largest bit of grass.
– The Terrace Restaurant, which turned into a comedy club.
– The Bugs Unsigned Stage with 2 different acoustic acts per day playing sets throughout the day.
2. THE PREFACE
Like a well-oiled machine, Perception fell into a fantastic routine. The team arrived each morning to deliver the kit into various locations before 9 am. It was then taken over by our show team who got everything up and running. Cables and speakers ran through bushes to keep the install neat and reduce set up a time for each week.
We monitored all noise levels and accessibility to the Zoo to minimise disruption. Although we never knew if we were dealing with rain or shine, we soldiered on regardless.
3. THE EVENT
Perception provided audio and lighting kit for an evening with the animals. As the public entered, they experienced a walkway of recorded animal noises on their way to the main lawn. The lawn was lit beautifully with a performance from a trapeze artist group and DJ.
Inside the main restaurant, animal experts took to the stage for an interactive show. The natural stage area provided a backdrop for the acoustic musicians to play. These acts used our Nexo PA controlled by our technicians to create a relaxed atmosphere.
Other attractions for the evening included stilt walkers and trapeze artists. All the money raised by the Zoo Nights contributes to various conservation projects.
4. THE FEEDBACK
Our client was very happy each week with the consistency shown by our team. Sound levels were consistently kept within the specifications set by animal welfare officers. Perception received congratulations on a superb event that was well-organised and drama free.
Unique challenges from the event were in the form of very loud protesters. These groups used the publicity generated by the event to push their own anti-zoo agenda. Ironically, these groups created more noise than our equipment did.
Perception is a huge supporter of the conservation efforts by ZSL. Our MD, Patrick O’Donnell along with Shane Thurston have committed to the Three Peaks Challenge on 23rd August 2019 in order to raise money for ZSL. Visit their Just Giving page to show your support.
