A flexible audio package and crew from Britannia Row, Clair UK, and Eighth Day Sound were deployed at Birmingham’s Resorts World Arena for Concert for Ukraine; a rapidly assembled charity fundraiser staged to aid the Disasters Emergency Committee’s (DEC) Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal.

The two-hour event was hosted by radio presenters Roman Kemp, Marvin Humes and former Spice Girl Emma Bunton. It secured over £13.4 million in funding and played host to a multitude of artists including Ed Sheeran, Anne-Marie, Gregory Porter, Snow Patrol, Camila Cabello, Manic Street Preachers, Tom Odell, Emilie Sande, British Violinist Nicola Benedetti, Paloma Faith, Nile Rodgers & Chic, and Ukrainian Eurovision Song Contest winner, Jamala, who had sadly left her homeland following the Russian invasion.

Billie Eilish and brother Finneas offered their support via video link, showing they were aligned with the cause despite being unable to attend due to tour commitments.

Britannia Row’s Tom Brown ensured the Group’s companies were well-placed to supply the last-minute audio requirements free of charge, while the production suppliers, creatives and technical teams – headed up by Production Manager Paddy Hocken – had just two weeks to create an inspiring event for a live audience and TV viewers.

In true community spirit, the live events industry showed its unique strengths when faced with a sudden and sizable task. The industry pulled together a magnificent show, dealing with each and every hurdle swiftly.

Using the available inventory within the urgent time period, Eighth Day Sound provided a d&b audiotechnik PA, while Britannia Row supplied d&b and L-Acoustics monitors; DiGiCo and Yamaha consoles for FOH and monitor duties; Shure and Sennheiser IEM / wireless systems; and full Dante networking system; as well as an Avid Venue console complete with stage racks for Nile Rodgers & Chic.

“From my point of view, the PA sounded spot on, and coverage was excellent, considering where the main left and right hangs ended up,” said FOH Engineer Gary Bradshaw after the show. “Each and every job I have been involved with – going back to the mid-80s – with Brit Row has been a great experience and this was no different.”

Monitor Engineer Stefano Serpagli also praised the quality of delivery: “The show was a great success. Thanks to Britannia Row Productions for the opportunity to be part of it - they put together a great team and package in record time!”

The full audio crew comprised Crew Chief Tim Paterson; FOH Engineers Josh Graham, Joe Standen, and Gary Bradshaw; Monitor Engineers Stefano Serpagli and Nick Carter; Radio Technician Lucy Mackinnon; Stage Technicians Beth O’Leary, Paul Gardiner, and Ben Sliwinksi; PA Technician Felix Threadgill; System Engineer George Chandler; and Playback Operator Leaf Troup.

Concert for Ukraine was an event raising funds for the ongoing DEC Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal. You can still donate at: dec.org.uk

Image credit: (c) Getty Images