Consider Yourself...Rigged!

13th February 2025

Unusual Rigging has played a pivotal role in bringing Cameron Mackintosh’s new production of Oliver! to the Gielgud Theatre in London’s West End. Having collaborated together on numerous productions over the years, Cameron Mackintosh Ltd knew that Unusual’s extensive knowledge and problem solving abilities would be vital in adapting Oliver!! to the venue.

Tom Lee, Senior Production Manager commented: “We needed to work with a team that could transform the space and overcome some  rigging challenges. Moving the production from Chichester to the Gielgud required careful planning and adaptation. The Unusual team, led by design engineer Emily Egleton had to contend with a constantly evolving brief which involved recreating some elements of the show in a completely different space.”

With Emily at the helm, the team needed to devise a way of supporting the production’s large and heavy set pieces, including an LED screen that could not be suspended from wires due to a projection surface above, and also needed to be easily movable. “The screen was a major hurdle for us,” said Tom. “We needed it as close to the back wall as possible but with the flexibility to move it for maintenance. Unusual developed a custom hanging frame that made this possible and the solution has worked brilliantly for our team.”

The Gielgud Theatre, like many older theatres with wooden grids, required several adaptations to support the flown bridge, which features performers flying above the stage. To achieve the necessary load capacity, Unusual designed and installed additional hanging beams above the grid, ensuring a safe and secure system that met structural requirements. 

"The flown bridge added another layer of complexity," Tom added. "With the wooden grid and the additional weight requirements, Unusual Rigging worked closely with us to install new hanging beams and ensure the structural integrity of the entire setup."

As with many transfers to the West End, timing was a challenge – perhaps more so than usual. “Time was not on our side," Tom admitted. "The entire fit-up had to be completed in just seven days with 24-hour working shifts. Unusual Rigging supplied an excellent team who worked alongside all other technical departments, ensuring efficiency and safety."

On top of this, some unforeseen challenges during the fit-up, including unexpected structural modifications, saw the Unusual team having to adapt swiftly to last-minute changes, revising designs in real time while maintaining the integrity of the production timeline. 

"As we exposed areas of the overhead space, new challenges emerged," Tom recalled. "Unusual Rigging was incredibly responsive, adjusting their designs on the fly and working tirelessly to keep us on schedule. Their dedication was crucial in allowing our dry tech session to start on time."
Oliver! began performances on 14 December 2024, before officially opening on 14 January 2025. Following widespread critical acclaim and rapturous response from audiences, the production has extended booking to 29 March 2026.

Tom concluded; “Unusual Rigging’s contributions to Oliver! at the Gielgud Theatre highlight their unparalleled ability to navigate complex rigging demands, ensuring the production meets the highest artistic and safety standards. Their close collaboration with the production team and ability to adapt to evolving requirements have once again solidified their reputation as industry leaders in theatre rigging.”