The National Indoor Arena (NIA) has installed an adaptable ‘Eclipse’ draping system. The venue selected the new system for its versatility and the Eclipse now enables the NIA to create a bespoke ambiance using screening that is expandable to facilitate a standing capacity of between 3,000-8,000 visitors.

The drape hangs on runners on the tiered level of the venue hall, and can section off the tiered areas leaving a smaller section. Within the sub-section, the drape is flexible enough to further expand or shrink the standing area depending upon the performance requirements. The system enables the NIA to expand the capacity for standing shows, and to attract a wider range of artists and performers due to its diverse configuration ability.

Phil Mead, managing director, arenas at NEC Group, said: “While we already have an academy format, we needed a creative way to offer even more flexible formats where speed and simplicity of installation is key. Often our promoters and their artists need more intimate, distinctive environments to compliment the show. Eclipse is innovative in that it can quickly section off areas of seating within our larger arenas to create smaller venues that generate a more personal atmosphere.”

The new system was installed in August and has been used for several events this year, including The Chemical Brothers, The Adult Only Show, and the 2007 Yehlex Birmingham Badminton Bonanza.

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