Open Masters Games Opening Ceremony
The Open Masters Games in Abu Dhabi kicked off with a large-scale show that traced sporting tradition in the region through to the energy of modern life, culminating in a finale featuring performances by Leona Lewis and Rita Ora. Our work lit up the Abu Dhabi skyline across a huge curved LED screen creating a stunning backdrop to the on-stage action, while a projected halo screen framed the ceremony.
I was responsible for 3D + 2D motion design across sections 2, 3, and 7 of the show, each requiring a distinct visual language to support its place in the story.
ROLE: 3D + 2D MOTION DESIGN | 3D MOTION DESIGNERS: NEAL COGHLAN, DANIEL MOUNTFORD | PRODUCTION ASSISTANT: ALICE BALDWIN | PRODUCER: CHARLOTTE WILDE | CREATIVE DIRECTOR: LUKE HALLS
Section 3 explored the hustle and bustle of modern life. Overlapping streaks, textures, and floating windows populate the frame as a scene of endless repeating apartments slowly forms. The camera then pushes inward, breaking the pattern to reveal individual lives and moments within the city.
Section 7, the finale, featured a star-filled Milky Way orbiting in timelapse, drawing arcs of light across the wide format of the screen. The sky acted as a unifying backdrop for live IMAG throughout the performances by Leona Lewis and Rita Ora.
Section 2 represented sporting tradition in the region. I worked across multiple moments designed to interact directly with stage performances, including tug of war, falconry, and the unfurling of the dhow sail shown below. This section focused on the beauty of traditional craftsmanship and heritage sport, culminating in a sail transition blooming like a flower and transporting us into the modern era through a portal of shimmering rods.
Daily rehearsals allowed us to see the work in situ and, alongside stage performance, lighting, and music, refine each beat into a cohesive, fully resolved performance.
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