Chapter 1 : Pukkelpop Mainstage
I had the privilege to document the behind-the-scenes moments, offering a captivating glimpse into the hidden world of artistic expression of the Pukkelpop Mainstage. As a native from the region, I grew up with Pukkelpop taking place “in my backyard” as the expression goes. During my early years as a musician, I grew an interest in what was happening behind the scenes of concerts. Thanks to a fellow artist I knew, who used to work on one of the stages of Pukkelpop, my interest peaked, and soon after I started working as a stagehand myself for various companies that were hiring. This was the starting point of a years-long adventure in working behind the scenes of concerts and festivals. Over the years this amazing journey slowly paved the way for me to become a dedicated music photographer. Going back to the Pukkelpop festival grounds was in hindsight by all means a full reconnection to my roots where my artistic path once began. Something I only fully grasped after having finished working on this project and expo, making it more personal than I had ever imagined.
This project, which is part of a series, allowed me to capture the energy and anticipation that permeate the backstage atmosphere. From the intense preparation before a performance to the quiet moments of reflection, this series reveals the raw emotions, the camaraderie, and the dedication of the diverse technicians, stage managers, stagehands, and riggers, by all means, artists in their own way. It showcases the unguarded expressions and the frenetic flurry of activity that ultimately culminate in a mesmerizing spectacle on stage.
The positive and enthusiastic reactions I received from Pukkelpop, the crews, and others who saw my selection of photos, reinforced my idea to work on a larger series of similar photo stories. With the Stardust series, I will aim to document the activities and life around other iconic stages and festivals, and also seek to tell stories of individuals and crews or expose certain stage professions. I hope it will provide a different look into the inner workings of a production but also provide a window into the creative process, allowing audiences to appreciate the artistry and passion that lie beyond the final performance.
A sincere “Thank You ! “goes out to Pukkelpop and all the people and artists working on, under, in front, and behind the Mainstage, for having allowed me to get up close and personal with this project, to tell their story.
Back and Onstage
Switching between bands and performances, both backstage and onstage, is a whirlwind of activity that requires impeccable coordination, planning and agility. Backstage there is a flurry of sound technicians tuning instruments, fine-tuning electronics or adjusting sound levels on cosoles. Meanwhile, stagehands, roadies and riggers scurry about, arranging props, adjusting lights and meticulously preparing the upcoming act onstage. The level of camaraderie, unity and problem solving attitude I found on the Pukkelpop Mainstage was remarkable. It left me with the feeling of a big family working and living together, solving problems when needed, sharing a laugh when possible but always making sure everything runs like a clock. As the next act gets closer, the energy intensifies ready to unleash the next performance onto the crowd and fans. It is the seamless coordination of backstage hustle and onstage brilliance that ensures a captivating experience for both artists and their adoring audience…..
Side of the stage, backliners and….
Backline and monitor technicians, usually operating from the side of stage, play an indispensable role in ensuring a flawless live performance of all musicians and performers on stage. These unsung heroes work diligently behind the scenes, managing the intricate network of instruments and audio/visual equipment that transform a concert into an electrifying experience. At the heart of their setup lie a diverse ecosphere of consoles and modules, computers and effect processors that empower them to achieve sonic and visual perfection. These machines and tools are marvels of modern technology, brimming with an array of faders, knobs, and screens that allow technicians to fine-tune every aspect of their sound and visual productions. With meticulous precision, these artists, in their own right, are responsible for the instruments being used on stage. They take control of equalizers, effects processors, and monitors, sculpting the audio landscape, projections or other visual gimmicks to meet the musicians' or other artists’ demands. They create the vital link between live performance and captivating music. Their dedication and expertise ensure that every note resonates with crystal clarity or that every image captures the eye, propelling the audience into the heart of the performance.
Relax & Off Time
The world of roadies, stagehands, riggers, and stage technicians is certainly fast-paced and demanding, but even these hardworking people need moments of relaxation and downtime in between shows, especially on a stage with the magnitude as the one of the bustling Pukkelpop Mainstage. Some gatherer in a corner of the stage to enjoy the performances of an artist from the shadows. Some retreat to their temporary camps under the stage, nestling themselves in a cozy hammock, while others gather around some flightcases to have a drink and share stories and experiences over a laughter. Others prefer solitude and immerse themselves in a good book or catch up on their favorite TV series. It’s during these precious moments that I found some opportunities to connect with some of them myself to exchange stories and info about their work and activities. It’s those moments that make one really understand why some of them are so passonate about their craft and how much appreciation and respect these tireless workers, artists and their activities truly deserve.
Security & Stewards
When it comes to ensuring the safety and smooth operation of events, front and backstage security staff and stewards play a crucial role. Frontstage security is responsible for maintaining order, controlling access to the front stage. Their presence and vigilance provide a visible deterrent against potential issues. Meanwhile, backstage security focuses on safeguarding the backstage and understage area, where performers, crew members, and equipment are located. They meticulously manage credentials, and enforce restricted access zones to maintain the privacy and security of the event's participants. Alongside these security measures, stewards at the frontstage contribute to crowd management, assisting with directions, crowd control, and surveillance. I noticed a remarkable level of interpersonal skills and ability to remain calm under pressure. Skills that are paramount in diffusing tense situations and ensuring a hassle-free experience for event-goers and performing artists. Together, front and backstage security and stewards work towards creating a secure and enjoyable environment for everyone involved, contributing to Pukkelpop’s fine reputation and in rendering it a unique of a kind festival.
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The Teams
During the days working on my project around the Pukkelpop Mainstage I had the pleasure to meet and to spend time with some extraordinary people, craftsmen and artists. What marked me the most was the dedication and passion with which all was done and executed. The seamless coordination between the different teams working on the backstage, frontstage and understage areas lies at the base for creating this harmonious and enjoyable environment for everyone involved in and around the stage. While working behind the scenes, in the shadows to contribute in the creation of an electrifying experience for both the artists and the audience, these teams form the layers of Stardust sticking onto the pieces of black duct tape being used, to ensure that every performer shines like a star and every audience member is left in awe.
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