Production Runner at Wembley: LIONESSES vs CHINA, and SELF ESTEEM Live Performance

Working at Wembley Stadium during the LIONESSES vs CHINA match was an eye-opening experience. I spent several days with Gravity Media, a sports broadcasting company, helping with the live content on the Big Screens. This opportunity gave me a close look at the complex coordination behind a major sports event and a live music performance by SELF ESTEEM. Here’s a detailed account of what I learned and the roles I took on as a runner and camera and lighting assistant.

Getting Started with Gravity Media at Wembley

Joining the production team at Wembley was both exciting and challenging. My role as a runner meant I was the go-to person for various tasks, from holding lighting and managing transport with equipment. This position allowed me to interact with many professionals and observe how each part of the production fits together.

On the first day, I focused on understanding the workflow. The team was responsible for filming live interviews, creating graphics, capturing the live performance, and syncing the Big Screens with the game action. Watching this coordination in real time showed me how much preparation and communication it takes to keep everything running smoothly.

The Production Meeting and Planning

On the second day, I attended a production meeting. This was a key moment for me because it revealed the detailed planning behind the scenes. The meeting covered schedules, technical setups, and contingency plans. It was clear that every second of the broadcast was carefully mapped out to avoid any disruptions.

The meeting also highlighted the collaboration between different departments: camera operators, lighting technicians, presenters, and graphic designers. Each team had a specific role, but they all worked toward the same goal—delivering a seamless experience for the fans in the stadium and those watching at home.

Working with Camera Operators and Lighting

After the meeting, I joined the camera operators to rehearse the live performance by SELF ESTEEM and the pre-game interviews with presenter Nigel. This rehearsal was crucial for timing and camera angles. I helped by managing LED lighting for the presenters, interviewees, and guests. Proper lighting ensured that everyone looked their best on the Big Screens.

In addition to lighting, I provided battery runs for the camera operators. This meant making sure their equipment stayed powered throughout the event, which is vital during live broadcasts where any technical failure can cause delays or missed shots.

The Live Performance and Game Day Action

The live performance by SELF ESTEEM was a highlight. The team filmed the artist on stage and coordinated with the graphics team to display visuals on the Big Screens. Being part of this process gave me insight into how live entertainment is integrated into a sports event.

During the game, I helped light up a Lioness player for a post-match interview. This required quick adjustments to lighting and positioning to capture the best shots. Later, I assisted with on-pitch round-ups, which involved coordinating with camera crews to cover key moments and reactions.

Lessons Learned and Career Impact

This experience taught me a lot about live event production. I saw firsthand how important communication, timing, and teamwork are in a fast-paced environment. The role of a runner might seem simple, but it’s essential for keeping the production moving.

I am grateful for the chance to work alongside skilled professionals and learn from them. This early career opportunity has motivated me to continue seeking roles where I can assist and shadow experienced crew members. Each event offers new challenges and learning moments that build valuable skills.