Carved into Jordan’s sandstone cliffs more than 2,300 years ago, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Petra doesn’t naturally lend itself to being a venue for live music. However, for one night only in early July, the iconic site was transformed into a high-tech production environment fit to host a performance from Swiss electronic music duo, Adriatique.
Tasked with finding the balance between delivering a world-class concert experience while respecting the sanctity of the ancient site, RB Event Technology served as technical production partner for the event, delivering the complete audio and lighting infrastructure. “Our scope included technical planning, system design, equipment supply, installation, programming, testing, system optimisation, and show-day operation,” began RB Event Technology’ Business Development Manager, Jeries Hawatmeh.
The RB Event Technology team started work on the project well in advance of show day. “During pre-production, we worked closely with the event organisers and the artist’s technical team to review technical riders, production requirements, venue logistics, and deployment strategies,” Hawatmeh recalled. “Strong preparation, clear communication, and attention to detail are fundamental to every project we undertake, particularly in locations as unique as Petra.”
Following a detailed planning phase, the RB Technology team carried out the installation of the complete audio and lighting systems, followed by programming, testing, and system optimisation. “Once the artist’s touring team arrived, we worked together throughout rehearsals and soundcheck to fine-tune every element of the production before doors opened,” Hawatmeh explained.
The unique sit brought its own specific technical and logistical challenges including restricted access, sensitive archaeological surroundings, and strict preservation requirements. “Every aspect of the deployment, from transportation and system positioning to cable routing and installation sequencing, was carefully coordinated to deliver a world-class production while fully respecting the historic site,” Hawatmeh explained, also noting the further challenges presented by the outdoor nature of the show. “As with any outdoor production, environmental conditions and tight production schedules required careful planning,” he added. “Thanks to extensive pre-production and an experienced technical crew, the project was delivered efficiently and reliably.”
The audio system was built around an L-Acoustics KARA II line array system, complete with the associated L-Acoustics amplification and processing, with FOH control coming in the form of a Yamaha RIVAGE digital mixing console. “The system was carefully designed and deployed to provide even coverage across the main audience area while also ensuring appropriate coverage for the backstage standing and production areas, maintaining consistent audio quality throughout the venue,” Hawatmeh stated.
The lighting design meanwhile struck the balance between enhancing the performance and highlighting the remarkable setting of Petra – all while complementing Adriatique’s signature visual identity. The lighting rig incorporated a range of ADJ fixtures including Hydro Profile, Hydro Wash X19, and Jolt Bar, as well as Showtec Sunstrip fixtures. The system was programmed and operated using an MA Lighting grandMA3 Full Size console which, in Hawatmeh’s words, “allowed seamless cue execution and dynamic transitions that evolved with the music while respecting the natural beauty of the venue”.
The RB Technology team maintained close communication with the artist’s production team from the early planning stages, working directly with the tour manager to ensure that every technical requirement was fully understood and executed to expectations. “The collaboration was excellent throughout the project,” Hawatmeh reported. “This allowed both teams to work efficiently together during installation, rehearsals, and the live performance while ensuring the artist’s creative vision was delivered exactly as intended.”
Reflecting on the project, Hawatmeh was particularly pleased with how the technical production blended seamlessly with the extraordinary ancient setting of Petra. “The L-Acoustics system delivered exceptional clarity and consistency, while the lighting design enhanced the atmosphere without overpowering the venue,” he commented. “The close collaboration between all teams resulted in an unforgettable audience experience.”
He concluded with a message of appreciate to everyone involved. “Working alongside an internationally renowned electronic music act such as Adriatique demands an exceptional level of technical precision and attention to detail. Every aspect of the production, from system deployment and programming to rehearsals and show execution, must meet the highest international touring standards,” he stated.
“We were proud to work closely with the artist’s production team and tour manager, and even prouder that our team was fully prepared and on top of every technical aspect throughout the entire production. That level of professionalism and collaboration is what enables productions like this to be delivered seamlessly in a venue as extraordinary as Petra.”
Photos: RB Event Technology
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