The Zayed Book Awards which celebrates the achievements of the Arab world`s most prolific writers, intellectuals and publishers, hosted its 9th ceremony at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre.

This year’s event was designed and produced on behalf of the foundation by HQ Creative; the 7th time the innovative production house has been involved with the inspiring awards. Building on the foundations of previous years, HQ appointed Delta Sound to provide specialist audio and communications services.

Delta Sound delivered the full audio requirements for this prestigious event. Given the high profile status and the attending dignitaries, steps were taken to ensure a very neat and seamless show. The system design implemented a compact PA not only for the 200+ audience but also for the award winners and presenters.

Control for the event demanded seamless transitions between presentations and awards alongside carefully designed visual content. This was achieved by using a DiGiCo SD9 with a D-Rack run digitally back stage. An instant replay 360 playback unit handled all the walk up stings and awards music. Together with the 360, Tascam SS and SS CDR200 units covered the background music and were also a backup for the high level content.

L-Acoustics Kara cabinets were flown discreetly and without obstruction ensuring a full audio spectrum was delivered within the conference arena. In addition to the main hangs, L-acoustics 5XT’s were flown and used as front fills supplying additional coverage for VVIP guests seated in the front row. “These small enclosures have proven themselves over and over again with their clarity and surprising power considering their size” explains Robert Eatock. He continues “another 4x 5XT’s were used as stage foldback, once again ensuring that every word was heard on stage. Enhancing the lower spectrum of the audio pattern was achieved by using L-acoustics SB28 sub enclosures. These cabinets were placed behind the elaborate set to ensure the desired clean appearance. LA8 amplifiers with LA network manager were used to drive the speakers, highlighting the versatility of the digital system.”

Schoeps microphones were chosen to be placed on the lectern further enhancing the quality of the speeches being delivered. Sennheiser 5200 hand held wireless microphones were on standby for any unscheduled readings and/or questions during the ceremony.

A combination of wired and wireless communication units were deployed to make sure that the show crew were in control of the proceedings. Clearcom RS501 single channel packs with CC400 headsets made up the base of the system and tied in with Tempest wireless packs again with CC400 headsets. The wired packs were controlled using a MS232 master station which also allowed for seamless connection to the Tempest controller.

“It’s a great pleasure for us to continue to get asked back to work on this event. HQ always produce real quality shows and it makes what we do that much more enjoyable” comments Craig Harvey.