For the 12th Season of the Hamdan International Photography Award (HIPA), Evolution Technical was commissioned to design and deliver an original audio, video and lighting (AVL) concept that elevated the prestige of the awards while keeping photography at the heart of the production.

Hosted at Dubai Opera, the ceremony required an advanced stage solution that seamlessly combined automation, video, lighting and audio into a single, immersive production. Working in collaboration with TECS, Evolution developed a technically sophisticated show environment that transformed the venue while supporting the ceremony's creative vision.

The Challenge

The production required complex technical systems to be integrated into a refined stage design without distracting from the award ceremony itself.

A dynamic stage environment was needed to support multiple award presentations, performances and visual transitions while maintaining flawless synchronisation between automation, media playback and lighting. The installation also had to work within stage area of Dubai Opera, requiring careful engineering of the rigging and automation systems.

Delivering smooth, repeatable movement of large LED screens while maintaining precise show timing demanded detailed planning and specialist technical expertise.

The Solution

Working alongside TECS, Evolution Technical engineered a bespoke automation system that enabled LED screens to travel on both the X and Y axis (stage left to stage right and upstage to down stage) creating a dynamic and adaptable stage environment throughout the ceremony.

A large central hero LED wall formed the visual focal point of the production. The complete system was rigged from Dubai Opera's mothergrid and fly bars, supported by Litec truss, GIS hoists and dedicated automation rails to deliver smooth, controlled movement.

To further enhance the scenic design, Evolution fabricated a custom LED-framed stage arch, providing dramatic visual transitions and full blackout capability controlled directly by the lighting team, whilst being supported by GIS hoists and Litec truss.

Content playback was managed using Disguise media servers, with timecode synchronisation ensuring seamless coordination between automation, video playback and lighting cues. Lighting control was delivered from GrandMA2 consoles at front of house, while DiGiCo consoles managed the event's audio system, providing exceptional clarity for presenters, performances and award announcements.

The result was a fully integrated production where automation, lighting, audio and video operated as one unified technical system.

Delivery Highlights 

• Complete AVL production
• Bespoke stage automation system
• Automated LED screens
• Hero LED wall installation
• Litec truss and GIS hoist rigging system
• Custom LED scenic arch fabrication
• Disguise media server programming
• Timecode synchronisation
• GrandMA2 lighting control
• DiGiCo audio mixing consoles
• Technical installation, programming and commissioning

Outcome

The completed production transformed Dubai Opera into an immersive stage environment that celebrated photography through innovative technical design and seamless show execution.

By integrating advanced automation, synchronised media playback and premium AVL systems into a single production workflow, Evolution Technical delivered a sophisticated ceremony that balanced technical excellence with creative storytelling. The project demonstrates Evolution's capability to engineer complex live event productions where automation, stage technology and precision show control are essential to the audience experience.

Project Ecosystem

Client:

Hamdan International Photography Award (HIPA)

Venue

Dubai Opera

Dubai, UAE

Evolution Technical:

Technical Production • Stage Automation • Audio Systems • Video Systems • Lighting Design • Show Control • Media Server Programming • Rigging • Technical Installation & Commissioning

Evolution Scenic:

Stage Build, Pre-Function Build

Evolution Site Services:

Power distribution

Created as an exclusive private celebration, "Project Sourfish" brought together internationally renowned performers for an evening of live entertainment in a bespoke event environment.

Every element of the production was designed to deliver a premium but intimate guest experience while meeting the technical expectations of A-list artists and their touring teams.

Evolution was entrusted with the complete Technical production, managing staging, rigging, professional audio, lighting, video playback and show infrastructure to create a system capable of supporting multiple live performances.

The Challenge

Unlike a traditional concert, the production combined the expectations of a major live performance with the flexibility required for a private event.

The venue had to accommodate multiple artists, changing technical riders and rehearsals, while maintaining a polished environment for invited guests.

With a compressed production schedule, every technical system from staging and rigging to lighting, audio and video had to be installed, integrated and fully commissioned within a single day, leaving sufficient time for rehearsals before the event.

The Solution

Evolution developed a purpose-built production environment centred around a Litec ground-supported stage and truss system, providing a secure platform for lighting, audio and performance equipment. Professional sound reinforcement, dynamic lighting and video playback systems were integrated into a unified production workflow, ensuring every performance was supported by reliable technical infrastructure.

Behind the scenes, a dedicated fibre-based Luminex AVL network connected the production systems, allowing efficient signal distribution and communication between departments while providing the flexibility needed to accommodate live show changes throughout the evening.

Delivery Highlights 

• Delivered complete technical production for a private entertainment event.
• Installed a Litec ground-supported stage and truss structure.
• Designed and deployed a professional concert audio system using HK Audio line arrays and L-Acoustics amplification.
• Supplied Shure PSM 1000 in-ear monitoring and professional stage monitoring systems.
• Created a dynamic lighting design using Robe, Chauvet and Astera fixtures.
• Managed lighting control through High End Road Hog consoles.
• Delivered professional video playback systems for live show content.
• Integrated a Luminex fibre network for AVL signal distribution and system control.
• Completed installation, commissioning and artist rehearsals within a single production day.

Outcome

Project Sourfish delivered a refined live entertainment experience that combined technical expertise with the flexibility required for a private, high-profile celebration. From rehearsals through to the final performance, every production element operated reliably, allowing artists and organizers to focus entirely on the guest experience.

The project demonstrated Evolution's ability to deliver premium entertainment productions under demanding schedules while maintaining the production standards expected for international live performances.

Project Ecosystem

Client:

Private Client 

Evolution Technical:

Delivered the complete technical production, including staging, rigging, professional audio, lighting, video playback, AVL networking, stage management and on-site technical support for the live entertainment programme.

Evolution Site Services:

Provided temporary power infrastructure, primary power distribution and secondary distribution boards (DBs) to support the concert stage, entrance feature, DJ maze and all technical production systems across the entertainment areas.

The second edition of INVESTOPIA Annual Conference welcomed global investors, business leaders and policymakers to Hilton Abu Dhabi for a programme of keynote sessions, panel discussions and strategic networking focused on the future of investment and economic growth.

To support the conference and its closing gala dinner, Evolution was entrusted with the complete audiovisual and technical production, creating a production environment capable of supporting a high-profile international audience from the opening session through to the final evening celebration.

The Challenge

With more than 1,000 delegates attending across a full day of presentations and discussions, the production needed to balance technical performance with operational flexibility. The programme featured multiple speakers, live presentations and branded content that required smooth transitions and dependable show control throughout the event.

The conference was followed by an outdoor gala dinner, requiring the production team to manage two very different event environments while maintaining the same level of quality and attention to detail across both experiences.

The Solution

The conference production centred around a large-format LED backdrop that served as the focal point for presentations, keynote sessions and multimedia content. A carefully designed lighting scheme enhanced the stage while adapting to different presentation formats throughout the day, and a professional audio system ensured consistent speech intelligibility for every delegate in attendance.

Behind the scenes, high-capacity networking, media servers and rigging infrastructure provided the foundation for reliable show operations. As the conference concluded, the production seamlessly transitioned to the outdoor gala, where atmospheric lighting transformed the terrace into an elegant setting for evening hospitality.

Delivery Highlights 

• Delivered complete AVL and technical production for the conference and gala dinner.
• Installed a large-format indoor LED display with Watchout media servers.
• Designed stage lighting using Astera, ROBE, SGM and Chauvet fixtures.
• Controlled lighting through a High End Full Boar 4 console.
• Supplied an L-Acoustics KARA professional audio system with SB18 subwoofers and X12 front fills.
• Installed HK Audio systems throughout the pre-function areas.
• Managed audio using a Yamaha QL5 digital console with Rio stage boxes.
• Connected all AVL systems via a Luminex networking platform.
• Engineered Litec truss structures to support lighting and technical infrastructure.
• Delivered atmospheric outdoor lighting for the closing gala dinner.

Outcome

The technical production provided a professional platform for international speakers, investors and decision-makers to connect throughout the conference. From keynote presentations and panel discussions to the closing gala, every production element supported a consistent, high-quality delegate experience.

By combining dependable audiovisual systems with efficient production management, Evolution helped deliver an event that reflected INVESTOPIA's ambition to position Abu Dhabi as a global destination for investment and economic dialogue.

Project Ecosystem

Client:

UAE Ministry of Economy – INVESTOPIA 

Evolution Technical:

Delivered the complete AVL and technical production, including LED displays, professional audio, lighting, media servers, networking infrastructure, rigging and on-site technical operations for both the conference and gala dinner.

Evolution Events:

Managed client communications, production planning and event delivery, coordinating venue teams, suppliers and stakeholders to ensure the programmed ran efficiently from build through to completion.

Evolution Scenic:

Produced and installed the conference stage, branded scenic elements, presentation backdrops and gala branding, creating a polished environment across both event spaces.

Evolution Furniture:

Supplied furniture for speaker stages, panel discussions, hospitality areas and the gala dinner, supporting both functionality and the overall guest experience.

Evolution Site Services:

Provided temporary power distribution and supporting electrical infrastructure to ensure reliable operation of all audiovisual and production systems.

The Qudwa–PISA Global Competence Forum 2022, held at Expo 2020 Dubai, brought together educators, policymakers and international thought leaders to explore the future of education and global competency. Designed as a platform for knowledge sharing and collaboration, the forum featured keynote presentations, expert discussions and interactive sessions throughout the day.

Evolution was selected to provide the complete AVL solution, supporting both the main conference venue and adjoining pre-function areas with dependable technology that kept the programme running smoothly from start to finish.

The Challenge

The event extended beyond a single presentation space, with activity taking place across both the main auditorium and the adjacent pre-function area.

This required a coordinated production approach that maintained consistent audio quality, visual presentation and lighting across multiple environments while allowing delegates to move naturally between sessions and networking spaces.

At the same time, the programme featured a continuous schedule of keynote presentations, panel discussions and multimedia content, placing significant emphasis on dependable playback, clear speech reinforcement and responsive show control throughout the event.

The Solution

A production system was developed to connect every part of the event into one coordinated experience. The main stage was supported by a large-format LED display for presentations and visual storytelling, while professional sound systems ensured evenly distributed audio throughout the venue.

Lighting extended beyond the conference stage into the surrounding event spaces, helping create a welcoming atmosphere while reinforcing the forum's branding. Behind the scenes, a dedicated networking and control infrastructure linked every technical department, providing production teams with real-time monitoring and efficient system management throughout the programme.

Delivery Highlights 

• Delivered complete AVL production for the forum and pre-function areas.
• Installed a large-format indoor LED display for presentations and multimedia content.
• Managed content playback using Watchout media servers.
• Designed lighting across multiple event zones using Astera, ROBE, Ayrton, SGM and Chauvet fixtures.
• Controlled lighting through a GrandMA lighting system.
• Supplied an L-Acoustics KARA audio system with SB18 subwoofers and X12 front-fill and monitor speakers.
• Installed HK Audio systems within the networking and pre-function areas.
• Managed audio using Yamaha QL5 digital mixing consoles and Yamaha RIO stage boxes.
• Connected all AVL systems through a Luminex network supporting AVB, Dante and Art-Net protocols.
• Engineered Litec truss infrastructure to support lighting and audio systems safely throughout the venue. 

Outcome

The production supported a full programme of keynote presentations, panel discussions and networking activities while maintaining consistent audiovisual quality across every event space. Delegates experienced clear speech, engaging visual content and a welcoming event environment that encouraged discussion and collaboration throughout the forum.

The project demonstrated Evolution's ability to deliver flexible production solutions for international conferences where multiple spaces, varied content formats and a premium delegate experience must work together as one cohesive event.

Project Ecosystem

Client:

Office of Strategic Affairs, Crown Prince Court UAE

Evolution Technical:

Delivered the complete AVL production, including LED displays, professional audio systems, lighting, media servers, networking infrastructure, rigging and comprehensive on-site technical support.

Evolution Events:

Managed production planning, client coordination and event operations, ensuring the programmed was delivered efficiently across all event spaces.

Evolution Scenic:

Delivered a custom-built stage featuring seamlessly integrated LED displays, along with bespoke partitions, backdrops, and branded totems that reinforced the forum's visual identity and thematic design

Evolution Furniture:

Supplied furniture for the main stage, panel discussions, networking areas and hospitality spaces, supporting both functionality and delegate comfort.

Presented by VCA at ICD Brookfield Place, PRADA Mode transformed a contemporary urban venue into an exclusive cultural destination featuring art installations, live music, workshops and social gatherings. Anchored by Damien Hirst's Pharmacy concept, the event demanded a technical production solution that enhanced the guest experience while remaining discreet within the carefully curated environment.

Evolution Technical was appointed to design, supply and deliver the complete AVL solution, supporting dynamic programming across both indoor and outdoor spaces with premium audio, lighting, rigging and control systems.

The Challenge

PRADA Mode blended contemporary art, hospitality and live entertainment within a gallery-inspired setting, requiring technical production that was both powerful and unobtrusive. The challenge was to deliver immersive sound, architectural lighting and reliable production infrastructure without compromising the venue's aesthetic.

The venue as it stood had no rigging points or attachments in the roof, meaning a custom solution was required to support the required lighting rigging and infrastructure

The production also needed to support multiple event formats throughout the programme, transitioning seamlessly between exhibitions, workshops, DJ performances and evening social experiences while maintaining technical performance.

The Solution

Evolution Technical designed and delivered a fully integrated AVL solution tailored to the venue's artistic vision. A dual-zone L-Acoustics audio system provided balanced coverage for both ambient music and live performances, while professional Pioneer DJ equipment, Shure wireless microphones and HK stage monitoring ensured reliable performance throughout the event.

Architectural lighting combined Astera, Martin and Chauvet fixtures with custom LED integration to enhance the venue's features, all controlled via a High End Full Boar 4 console using Swisson Wireless DMX. Our rigging team designed and installed permanent rated anchor points to the venue roof allowing a truss grid to be flown to support all lighting and infrastructure. An 8-metre Litec circular truss was also suspended from these and supported the production infrastructure, overall preserving the clean visual language of the space while delivering maximum technical performance.

Delivery Highlights

• Designed, supplied and delivered the complete AVL solution.
• Installed a dual-zone L-Acoustics audio system for indoor and outdoor coverage.
• Supplied professional Pioneer CDJ-3000, Denon Turntables and DJM-900 DJ systems.
• Delivered Shure wireless microphones and HK Audio stage monitoring.
• Installed architectural lighting using Astera, Martin and Chauvet fixtures.
• Integrated custom LED strip lighting into venue columns.
• Programmed all lighting via High End Full Boar 4 with Swisson Wireless DMX.
• Engineered and installed a permanent rigging anchor point solution for the venue
• Engineered and installed an 8-metre Litec circular truss to support lighting and audio equipment.
• Provided on-site technical management and operational support throughout the event.

Outcome

The Evolution Technical team delivered a comprehensive AVL production that complemented PRADA Mode's artistic vision while providing exceptional technical performance throughout the event. The integrated solution created immersive audio and lighting experiences, supported live performances and workshops, and maintained the elegant, gallery-inspired atmosphere that defined PRADA Mode 2022.

By combining discreet installation with precision technical delivery, Evolution helped transform ICD Brookfield Place into a world-class cultural destination where art, music and hospitality came together effortlessly.

Project Ecosystem

Client:

VCA / PRADA Mode

Evolution Technical:

Designed, supplied and delivered the complete AVL solution, including professional audio systems, architectural and performance lighting, DJ equipment, rigging infrastructure, wireless lighting control and on-site technical support throughout the event.

Evolution Events:

Led client coordination, stakeholder management, project planning, production management and on-site delivery, ensuring seamless communication and collaboration between the client, suppliers and production teams from planning through to event execution.

Evolution Scenic:

Designed, fabricated and installed all scenic elements, including bespoke branding installations, feature walls, custom scenic structures and event branding, creating a cohesive visual identity throughout the venue.

Evolution Furniture:

Supplied and installed tailored furniture solutions across the event spaces, complementing the venue design while supporting both hospitality and functional event requirements.

For the opening ceremony of Riyadh Season 2022, Evolution Technical was commissioned to design and engineer a full-scale moving paper boat as a unique performance feature for the opening parade. The concept combined mechanical engineering with scenic fabrication, transforming a standard utility buggy into a fully operational vehicle while preserving the delicate appearance of a folded paper boat adorned with Riyadh Season branding in multiple languages.

The Challenge

Creating a fully drivable vehicle that convincingly resembled a lightweight paper sculpture presented a significant engineering challenge. The buggy required extensive mechanical modification while maintaining safe operation, structural integrity and precise steering. The completed structure also had to be transported from Dubai to Riyadh, assembled on site and prepared for live performance within a tight delivery schedule.

The Solution

Our Mechatronics team completely stripped the buggy back to its core mechanical components before designing and fabricating a bespoke supporting chassis to carry the scenic structure. The steering system was re-engineered with a custom helm, incorporating integrated steering, braking and throttle controls to provide intuitive vehicle operation.

A lightweight scenic shell was constructed using custom-shaped hollow plastic panels mounted onto the engineered frame, recreating the appearance of a folded paper boat while remaining durable enough for live operation. Following transportation to Riyadh, the team carried out final assembly, testing and on-site engineering adjustments to ensure the vehicle performed flawlessly during the opening ceremony.

Delivery Highlights 

• Custom vehicle engineering and scenic fabrication.
• Complete buggy modification and chassis redesign.
• Bespoke steering, braking and throttle integration.
• Lightweight paper boat scenic structure.
• Custom fabrication and mechanical assembly.
• Cross-border transportation from Dubai to Riyadh.
• On-site commissioning, testing and final engineering support.

Outcome

The completed Float successfully blended engineering precision with creative scenic design, becoming a memorable feature of the Riyadh Season opening celebrations. Despite the logistical and mechanical challenges, Evolution delivered a fully operational performance vehicle that brought an imaginative concept to life while demonstrating the team's expertise in custom fabrication, engineering and live event delivery.

Project Ecosystem

Client:

Riyadh Season

Venue

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Evolution Technical:

Technical Management • Custom Engineering • Scenic Fabrication • Mechanical Design • Vehicle Integration • Installation & Commissioning

Evolution Scenic:

Custom fabrication