Fabric on tour with U2

Architen Landrell in Chepstow, Monmouthshire, U.K., provided the tensioned fabric cladding system for the U2 360° World Tour stage. The stage was a collaboration between the lead architects Mark Fisher Studio, structural engineers Atelier One, steel company Stage Co and Architen Lardrell. In order to accommodate the rigorous touring schedule, the designers created three separate stages to be used in turn. While U2 performs on one, one is being dismantled and transported, and the other is being assembled for the next concert.

The fabric membrane covers the main steel trussing and provides shelter from the elements for the band. Additionally, groups of multi-conic fabric structures cover an octagonal PA truss system supported by four giant arched legs. At the top point of every conic is an orange disc lit internally with a cluster of lights. In addition to the fabric membrane, the center of the structure houses a vertical LED pylon and an elliptical, retractable video screen, both designed as interactive staging elements during the live show.