David Bowie's Immersive 'Stage' Concert Experience to Debut at Berlin Film Festival
A groundbreaking immersive concert experience dedicated to the legendary artist David Bowie, titled 'Stage,' is poised for its global debut on February 14 at Berlin's Uber Arena. This premiere coincides with the Berlin Film Festival, marking a distinctive inclusion of alternative programming within the prestigious European cinematic event. The production promises an extraordinary fusion of previously unseen Bowie concert footage, along with cutting-edge sound and lighting effects, meticulously crafted around recently unearthed and restored recordings from his iconic 1978 Isolar II World Tour, which prominently featured material from his critically acclaimed album, 'Heroes.' This collaborative effort involves Wonderworld, the David Bowie Estate, and Grammy Award-winning documentary filmmaker Brett Morgen, who played a pivotal role in discovering the original camera negatives.
This ambitious project is the result of a partnership between Rob Hallett's Wonderworld, the David Bowie Estate, and the celebrated documentary filmmaker Brett Morgen. Morgen's involvement is particularly significant, as he initially uncovered the original camera negatives during his work on his Grammy-winning film, 'Moonage Daydream,' providing the foundation for this immersive spectacle. The presentation employs a sophisticated three-screen setup, integrating large-scale projections with transparent LED screens, all synchronized with an intricate lighting design conceived by the renowned Patrick Woodroffe, celebrated for his collaborations with music giants like the Rolling Stones and Elton John.
Further elevating the auditory experience, Academy Award winner Paul Massey, known for his work on 'Bohemian Rhapsody,' 'Michael,' and 'Moonage Daydream,' has crafted a specially designed sound mix. Utilizing advanced 7.1 surround technology and spatial audio engineering, the production aims to place the audience directly into the heart of a live David Bowie concert, offering an intimate and electrifying connection to his performance. Tricia Tuttle, director of the Berlinale, expressed her excitement, noting the unique intersection of cinema, art, and innovative storytelling that 'Stage' embodies, emphasizing the special resonance of its premiere in Berlin—a city deeply entwined with Bowie's artistic journey.
Rob Hallett, the visionary founder of Wonderworld and former president of AEG International, underscored the unparalleled nature of this production. He emphasized that David Bowie bequeathed an extraordinary, never-before-seen concert experience, and through close collaboration with the Bowie Estate and Brett Morgen, the team has ensured that 'Stage' remains entirely faithful to Bowie's enduring legacy. Their mission is to make his genius accessible to his global fanbase and introduce his artistry to new generations. Additionally, Brett Morgen is slated to be a featured speaker in the talks program at the Berlinale's European Film Market, with more details to be unveiled in the coming weeks, further highlighting the cultural significance of this immersive tribute.
