With more than two decades of sports broadcasting experience, Alkass Sports always aims to raise the bar in production content, to give fans the ultimate experience.
For its most recent facility, the broadcaster understood that a virtual studio would enable its team to provide multiple set designs with endless coverage options. The studio was designed and delivered to launch with Alkass’ coverage of the 2022 World Cup but needed to be flexible to also support a wide range of programming in the future.
The studio, including a 4.2m x 12m cyclorama, was built from scratch in just three months, so all technical and integration partners across physical and virtual elements had to ensure clear communication and coordination from the start. Within the overall installation project, ARRI Solutions was tasked with the design and installation for the studio’s physical lighting network, which was a fundamental element in achieving effective and realistic coverage. The team also delivered network control and electric distribution across the studio.
“Within a virtual environment, high-quality lighting is imperative to maintain authenticity and fine details in the images we broadcast,” explains Tony Gerges, Head of Lighting, Alkass Sports. “The presenters and physical set furniture on the studio floor need to merge seamlessly with the virtual backdrops to retain the illusion. If the balance is off, it’s immediately noticeable to viewers and can spoil their enjoyment.”
