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by Tony Ramos
When it comes to WWE’s biggest event of the year, WrestleMania, the spectacle goes far beyond the matches. One of the most awe-inspiring aspects of the show is the grand stage design. Each year, WWE ups the ante, delivering elaborate and unique setups that become just as memorable as the in-ring action. But have you ever wondered how long it takes to construct such a massive stage?
Let’s break it down with some jaw-dropping stats and behind-the-scenes details:
The Timeline
- Construction Start: The process begins about 3 to 4 weeks before WrestleMania.
- Final Touches: The finishing touches are typically completed just hours before the event goes live.
- Total Time: On average, it takes over 2500 man-hours to complete the entire stage setup.
The Crew
- Manpower: WWE employs a team of over 150 workers, including engineers, riggers, designers, and lighting experts, to bring the vision to life.
- Shifts: These workers often work in rotating shifts, ensuring the project runs 24/7 until it’s complete.
Materials and Logistics
- Steel and Structures: The stage structure often uses upwards of 200 tons of steel.
- Lighting and Effects: WrestleMania stages feature thousands of LED panels, hundreds of moving lights, and state-of-the-art pyrotechnics. For example, WrestleMania 35 used over 500 moving lights and 40 spotlights to illuminate the massive setup.
- Transport: The equipment is hauled to the stadium in over 30 semi-trucks, making it a logistical marvel.
Fun Facts
- Tallest Stage: WrestleMania 33 in Orlando featured a giant rollercoaster structure, standing at over 80 feet tall. It took extra time and expertise to ensure safety and stability.
- Longest Ramp: WrestleMania 34 in New Orleans had a ramp that stretched a record-breaking 85 yards (almost the length of a football field), allowing superstars to make a dramatic entrance.
- Unique Features: WrestleMania 31’s outdoor setup in Levi’s Stadium required special lighting adjustments to account for daylight during the event’s first half.
The Cost
Creating the stage for WrestleMania isn’t cheap. Estimates suggest WWE spends anywhere between $1 million to $2 million on stage design alone. This cost includes materials, manpower, transportation, and cutting-edge technology to ensure the event is visually stunning for both the live audience and millions watching at home.
Why It’s Worth It
WrestleMania is more than just a wrestling event; it’s a global entertainment spectacle. The stage becomes a crucial part of the storytelling, setting the tone for unforgettable moments like Shawn Michaels’ iconic zip-line entrance at WrestleMania XII or The Undertaker’s chilling walks down the ramp. Every detail matters, and WWE’s commitment to grandeur is what keeps fans coming back year after year.
So, the next time you marvel at the WrestleMania stage, remember the countless hours, immense teamwork, and incredible creativity that go into making it a reality. It’s a masterpiece worthy of wrestling’s biggest night.
