The AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023 opened at Lusail Stadium in January 2024 with a large-scale ceremony combining performance, scenic design, projection, lighting and technical production within one of Qatar’s most iconic stadiums.
John joined Katara Studios as Lead CAD Operator, supporting the Technical and Operations departments throughout the development and delivery of the Opening Ceremony.
Working closely with the Technical Director, Technical Managers and Creative teams, John was responsible for developing and coordinating the master CAD information for the production. This included the preparation of plans, technical overlays and 3D information, alongside maintaining drawing standards and dimensional consistency across information received from multiple departments and specialist contractors.
The role required the integration of a wide range of production systems, including scenic elements, EPTS performer-tracking cameras, broadcast cameras and other technical infrastructure. Using AutoCAD and Rhino, John coordinated this information into a reliable central drawing environment that could be continually developed as the production progressed through installation and rehearsals.
The project marked the beginning of John’s relationship with Katara Studios on major international sporting ceremonies in Qatar, leading to his return as Lead CAD Draughtsman for the FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2025 Opening Ceremony.
John, what a natural talent you are. You brought some significant skills to the table, and I think we used just about all of them on this job.
Shannon Gobell, Technical Director, AFC Asian Cup Opening Ceremony
