Take That 'Wonderland' Tour 

our technicians designed and produced an extensive range of special effects including aerial props that performers could ride on as they fly above the stage. These flying objects include a stylised swan, a winged horse, a unicorn, a jewelled orb and sceptre, a poppy swing, a giant fish hook and a bohemian bed which form part of a revolving carousel.

Each of these components had to be light enough for the dancers to carry into the arena, as well as structurally safe. Once on stage, the props are attached to the flying system and lifted into the air where the aerialists perform gymnastic choreography in time to the band’s catchy pop anthems. The design of these props was carried out in close consultation with the creatives and performers to ensure all of the actions and acrobatics could be carried out as planned.

We also created a giant inflatable flower which encircles the round stage area. The 16 enormous petals inflate to a 26m diameter half way through the show, so the team had to find a way to hide them in small discrete boxes under the edge of the stage. Several small-scale versions were tested before creating a full-size test prototype. Another challenge was to disguise the flower from looking like an inflatable – as the tour dates approached a massive purpose-built spray area was constructed to paint the petals in different colours.