At Production LX, we take pride in helping creative teams bring their visions to life with innovative technical solutions. This summer, we had the pleasure of collaborating with the National Youth Music Theatre (NYMT) for a triple bill of productions at the Birmingham Hippodrome’s Patrick Studio: FAME: The Musical, Tuck Everlasting, and Lightning Boy.
Each show brought something completely different to the stage — from FAME’s high-energy dance numbers to the heartwarming story of Tuck Everlasting and the original creativity of Lightning Boy. But behind the scenes, all three productions relied on one key element: a custom-built stage structure designed by our team at Production LX.
A Unique Staging Solution
Our task was to design and build a large, versatile stage structure that could stay in place across the entire run while accommodating three very different productions. The set dressing and scenic elements changed for each show, but the main staging framework remained constant — providing a solid foundation for every performance.
One of the standout features was the band area built beneath the staging, making the most of the available space and keeping the musicians out of sight without compromising sound quality or access. The stage itself had a unique, custom shape designed to complement the creative needs of all three productions while fitting seamlessly within the Patrick Studio’s dimensions.
We also incorporated pathways underneath the stage, allowing performers to move unseen between entrances. This gave the directors more flexibility for staging and helped maintain the flow of each production while keeping the stage surface clear for the action above.
Overcoming Space and Stability Challenges
Designing and installing such a large structure in a relatively compact performance space was no small feat — especially with the stage standing at 7 feet high and incorporating multiple pathways underneath for performer entrances.
The inclusion of these under-stage paths meant that some of the usual cross-bracing had to be removed to keep the walkways clear and practical for movement. This introduced extra challenges in the design phase, as we needed to ensure the structure remained completely stable and safe while accommodating the entrances and keeping the stage surface solid for performers above.
Careful planning went into every detail to make sure the staging:
- Maximised the available performance area
- Provided safe and practical access for both performers and the band beneath the stage
- Integrated multiple under-stage pathways without compromising structural stability
- Maintained full safety and strength despite the height and reduced bracing in certain areas
Through smart engineering and careful construction, we created a stage that was not only functional but also completely reliable throughout the entire run of shows.
A Versatile Foundation for Creativity
By creating a single, adaptable staging solution, we helped NYMT achieve a professional and efficient setup across their triple bill of shows. With the structure staying in place, the creative teams could focus on transforming the stage for each production without needing to rebuild the core platform each time.
The result was a flexible, professional-quality performance space that met the needs of three very different musicals while maximising time, space, and resources.
Bringing It All Together
Working with NYMT on this project was a fantastic opportunity to demonstrate how smart staging design can streamline multi-show productions. By delivering a large, custom-shaped stage with integrated band space, under-stage pathways for performer movement, and a design that maintained complete stability at 7 feet high, we created the foundation for a memorable season of performances at the Birmingham Hippodrome.
If you’re looking for innovative staging solutions for your next production, whether it’s a single show or a full season, Production LX has the expertise to make it happen.