25.05.2016, 04:33
Great opening shows await packed LANXESS arena

Players, spectators and fans from all over the world are part of the show and say #HelloCologne

Great opening shows await packed LANXESS arena

The VELUX EHF FINAL4 opening shows are a permanent feature and a regular talking point ahead of each match. Impressive shows with the potential to inspire awe are presented every year for handball fans and also on the 28/29 May 2016, nobody should miss the spectacle before all four matches.

The concept and implementation of the shows are created by Elements Entertainment. Ever since the very first event in 2010 is the creative team responsible for the amazing openings and this year, they again convinced EHF Marketing GmbH of their great show concept.

"The opening shows became a must see for all the spectators in the arena and in front of the TV over the past years," says David Szlezak, managing director of EHF Marketing GmbH. "We are pleased with the continuous collaboration with the team of Elements Entertainment."

New challenges

However, the previous achievements and the seventh event year are no reason to relax for Elements Entertainment’s managing director Konrad Kuschel: "It’s the opposite, especially because of the continuity it is a special challenge for us; the challenge of improving the shows every year artistically and technically, to improve, to invent and to inspire the audience once more."

After Elements Entertainment were awarded with the BEA Production Award 2016 for last year’s VELUX EHF FINAL4, the goals of the team are even higher now. The director of the artwork is once again the internationally honoured and well decorated Hans-Christoph Mücke.

The technical part alone sets new standards on the upcoming weekend, when the arena will be reconfigured for this year’s shows – with all in all 220 square metres of round high-definition LED screens, which can partly move.

"What is so special about this production is the combination of handball characteristics with live performances, video content and technology in order to get an overall emotional experience," explains Konrad Kuschel.

Every opening show lasts 15 minutes and as the entering of the teams is part of the presentation, they will proceed to the matches without any breaks. Director Hans-Christopg Mücke summarises: "Those are moments that get under your skin."

TEXT: EHF / es, cor