Concert design: Florence & The Machine
The OVO Hydro in Glasgow has hosted numerous artists and events. The stage set design for Florence & The Machine, specifically inspired by their song 'Cosmic Love', draws from both the track's ethereal essence and the band's overarching philosophy.
'Cosmic Love' by Florence + the Machine is a poignant ballad depicting the anguish of losing a loved one and the subsequent feelings of sadness and loneliness. The lyrics use metaphors, such as a star falling from the speaker’s heart, to convey the sense of being lost without their loved one. The chorus expresses the heartache of being in darkness with no hope, only the lingering presence of the departed. Despite moments of hope in the bridge, the overarching sentiment emphasises the longing to remain in the darkness of loneliness, yearning for the lost loved one.
Emotional Intensity: Florence Welch is known for her emotionally charged and intense performances.
Spirituality and symbolism: Welch incorporates spiritual and symbolic elements into her music. References to religious imagery, mythology, and nature are common in her lyrics.
Artistic Expression: Welch is known for her artistic and theatrical approach to music. The band’s sound is characterised by its grand quality, and their visuals often complement the emotional depth of the music.
In this design, consistent themes are utilised to echo both the song and the broader album, ensuring compatibility across all tracks. Inspired by the song’s imagery of falling stars symbolising loss, I’ve integrated a parallel motif using candlelight. Its gradual intensification mirrors the emotional progression of the performance, culminating in a moment of catharsis akin to the song’s themes.
LED Screens: The screens dynamically shift in tandem with the emotional ebb and flow of the song’s lyrics, mirroring their rise and fall. Employing a consistent colour scheme, the visuals establish a poignant connection to the song, enhancing its emotive impact and immersing the audience in a cohesive visual narrative.
Ceiling Candle Detail: As the song reaches its lowest point, the intricate ceiling detail descends, enveloping the stage in a moment of intimacy. At this point, Florence stands beneath the descending structure, illuminated solely by the gentle cascade of lights shining from above.
Florence Welch often embraces a bohemian fashion sense characterized by flowing, romantic dresses, floral patterns, and whimsical accessories. Her style reflects a sense of free-spiritedness and individuality. The band’s aesthetic draws inspiration from vintage fashion and art, incorporating elements from different eras such as the 1960s and 1970s.
