VE80 Commemorative Concert
Credit: Gareth Fuller/Alamy
Event infrastructure for a national moment of reflection
Star Live partnered with Chromatic Productions and BBC Studios to provide key infrastructure for the VE80 Commemorative Concert, marking 80 years since Victory in Europe. Broadcast nationally, the event required infrastructure that was both functional and dignified.
Meeting the challenge
The project required infrastructure to support a commemorative concert attended by approximately 12,000 people, while also meeting ceremonial expectations for a broadcast watched by millions. With the Royal Family present, every detail demanded precision and dignity.
Delivery was further complicated by the nature of the location. Horse Guards Parade is a historic military ground in the heart of Whitehall, framed by government buildings and monuments. Logistics were highly restricted, with limited access for vehicles, heightened security protocols, and stringent time windows for deliveries and build activity. As a ceremonial space, the site could not be altered or damaged, meaning all infrastructure had to be non-invasive and fully demountable. The production also had to coordinate closely with military authorities to respect ongoing ceremonial duties and heritage sensitivities.
Our solution
Star Live delivered the main stage, Royal Box seating and a Royal retiring room, all constructed using the Starbox modular system. This approach enabled efficient build and de-rig while achieving the formal presentation required for a high-profile national event.
Despite the constraints of the site, the stage system was loaded in, built and ready for production in under a week. Following the event, it was derigged and fully cleared within three days, minimising disruption to the ceremonial ground.
Working in close partnership with Chromatic Productions and BBC Studios, our team ensured every element aligned with the creative, ceremonial and broadcast requirements, while meeting the tight timescales and stringent logistical conditions.
The impact
The VE80 Commemorative Concert provided a focal point for remembrance, uniting live and broadcast audiences in a national moment of reflection. Star Live’s infrastructure ensured the event was delivered with dignity and precision, reinforcing our experience in managing projects of high-profile cultural significance.
