Festival Stage Set Design and Installation
Halloween Town Festival
Halloween Town Festival was the UK’s largest Halloween Event in 2021, attracting over 15,000 guests for the 3-day spectacle. Set within a big-top festival-style tent in Bedford, the event featured a main stage, VIP areas, and a spooky atmosphere throughout.
From eerie entertainment and endless music to custom-built installations and crowds dressed in terrifying costumes, the Halloween Town Festival was an immersive and captivating experience from start to finish.
Although the festival was planned by a local organiser, it was designed by MW Set Design, and we were fortunate to be part of the set design and installation team for this exciting project.
Our task was to bring MW Set Design’s vision to life by implementing their concepts through creative prop placement and scenic design throughout the tent.
The set was transformed into an abandoned warehouse, with an emphasis on weathered, patina-inspired elements that reflected a worn, industrial look. Each aspect had to be visually fitting while also meeting strict safety and practical requirements for the space.
Visual diagrams and CAD drawings guided our team in custom-building scenic panels and props that captured the eerie atmosphere MW Set Design had envisioned.
Given the unique tent structure, our biggest challenge was designing fixtures and fittings that worked with the scaffolding framework. Every detail—from design and scale to safety and installation—was meticulously planned to ensure both aesthetic appeal and secure construction.
The Brief
Stage and Tent
In addition to the main stage design, we were responsible for elevating the festival’s luxury elements. Guests could upgrade to VIP Lounge access, giving them premium seating with views of the stage and other luxury perks.
To enhance the VIP experience, we designed comfortable yet luxurious seating areas that aligned with the overall theme and aesthetic of the festival.
We also catered to the performers and talent, creating luxury dressing rooms and backstage areas with subtle Halloween touches, ensuring a balance of comfort and theme continuity.
VIP and Backstage
Collaboration was key to achieving a cohesive and impactful design. Our team worked closely with MW, maintaining open communication to ensure seamless updates on the build and design progress throughout the creative process.
Every panel was handcrafted in our workshop with meticulous care. Our creative teams employed a range of artistic techniques to achieve the desired 'old industrial warehouse' aesthetic, layering textures to create an authentic, weathered look.
We carefully sourced materials and props, considering weight, size, and installation methods. Collaborating with niche suppliers, many of whom were new to us, allowed us to explore innovative materials and approaches. This project provided a valuable opportunity to expand our knowledge of the scenic industry and its range of materials.
After weeks of preparation in our workshops and studios, the entire team mobilised on-site to install each scenic panel and prop. We worked closely with the designer and followed their plans meticulously to bring the vision to life. Safety was a top priority, especially as we operated at height on scaffolding. Our team was fully equipped with the necessary PPE, and all fittings were carefully checked to ensure they were secure and suitable for the event’s requirements.
The Main Stage
The Installations
We collaborated with event graphics suppliers to apply stencils and vinyl decals based on the provided designs. It was crucial to ensure that our scenic panels were compatible with these graphic overlays, and we worked closely to align both elements seamlessly.
Using 3D printing technology, we crafted eerie Halloween-themed hands holding lanterns, designed to emerge from the corrugated panels for a dramatic effect.
We upcycled oil drums, adding graffiti-style paint to perfectly fit the industrial warehouse concept.
Guests who opted for the luxury upgrade were welcomed into a spooky yet striking VIP lounge area, offering excellent views of the main stage.
Every element in this space was carefully curated to complement the festival's theme. We focused on fabrics, textures, and tones, thoughtfully utilising the space to create a luxurious yet thematic experience. Additional accessories were sourced to bring the Halloween theme to life.
VIP Lounge
Leather bench sofas with an industrial, yet contemporary edge. Paired with vintage trunk coffee tables- adding a sense of luxury to the space set under an industrial railway arch scene.
Industrial poseur tables and black metal stools.
Reclaimed wood bar and back bar with bespoke crate display and Halloween theming.
To ensure comfort and luxury for the performers and artists, we incorporated plenty of soft seating, thoughtfully styled with bespoke Halloween accessories, lanterns, and autumnal décor.
Our goal was to create a space that was both calming and inspirational while maintaining a consistent aesthetic between the backstage and the main stage.
Backstage
To achieve the desired atmosphere, we collaborated with a range of expert suppliers, including lighting teams, graphic designers, 3D printers, bar companies, and scaffolding technicians. Flexibility and clear communication were essential when working with such a diverse team to bring the vision to life
Partners
As a key part of the festival team, we’re proud to say that Halloween Town Festival was a resounding success and an unforgettable experience.
Our team went beyond simply providing furniture—we crafted and built an immersive storyline through our use of props and decor. We transformed the empty tent into an atmospheric industrial warehouse setting, complete with some of the UK’s top performers and entertainers.
The Results
Important Links
For a behind-the-scenes look at Halloween Town Festival.
To explore MW Set Design.
And, to find out more about our Festival Services.