Page 19 - Engineering Career Guide for UT Austin

ENGINEERING CAREER GUIDE 19
Behind
the Scenes
Concerts like Taylor Swift’s require the skills of many
types of engineers to make them happen.
Most artists stick to a single, yet impressive, stage design for their
live concerts. However, Taylor Swift had a different vision for
her Eras tour — she aimed to transport her fans to the musical
landscapes of each of her distinct albums. This ambitious idea required
changing the set every few songs, creating an immersive experience that
reflected the various moods of her music. From a hazy, pink dreamscape
to a sparkling twilight, the tour was a journey through her artistry.
While this tour was extra special, every entertainment event needs a
team of skilled engineers working behind the scenes to create a mesmeriz-
ing experience for the audience. These engineers specialize in different
fields to make the magic happen.
Audio engineers ensure that the sound is flawless, reaching every
corner of the venue. Lighting and visual effects engineers choreograph
mesmerizing visuals that sync perfectly with performers’ music. Stage de-
signers and automation engineers collaborate to craft elaborate stage set-
ups, including multi-level stages with moving platforms and trap doors (to
dive into a pool, perhaps!), which surprise and delight the audience during
the performance. Video engineers transform the stage into a dynamic can-
vas, projecting high-definition visuals and animations onto custom-built
screens and set pieces, adding depth and visual storytelling to the show.
Through seamless collaboration, these engineers create a concert ex-
perience that goes beyond the music. Taylor Swift’s Eras tour was just one
example of the magic that can happen when creativity and engineering
come together in the world of entertainment.