Sila Sveta’s creative and technological journey behind the AFC Asian Cup 2023
Sila Sveta, a distinguished international multimedia production studio, has unveiled an exclusive behind-the-scenes documentary detailing the creation of the AFC Asian Cup 2023 opening ceremony. The event, held on January 12, 2024, at Lusail Stadium in Qatar, attracted an audience of 82,490 and gained global recognition through prestigious awards. The documentary, launched on YouTube on the anniversary of the spectacle, offers an in-depth look at the intricate creative and technical processes that brought the ambitious production to life.
For six months, the team, under the leadership of Creative Director Arthur Kond, meticulously crafted the stage design and visual content for the 25-minute opening ceremony. In collaboration with Katara Studios, the production aimed to merge theatrical performance, music, and multimedia elements in a way that had never been attempted in a soccer tournament of this scale. The result was a visually captivating experience that earned the TPiMEA Award for Outstanding Production of the Year and the Best Ceremony of 2024 by Eventex.
The documentary reveals the evolution of the project from its initial conceptual sketches to its final execution on the grand stage. It delves into the creative challenges faced, including the development of a vast screen and an alternative stage design that eventually led to the innovative five shell-shaped screens with a 360-degree view. It also provides a closer look at the narrative structure of the ceremony, which was inspired by the ancient Sanskrit legend Kelileh Wa Demneh, adding a deep cultural and artistic dimension to the performance.
Through detailed insights into the design process, the film highlights the development of graphic characters, visual metaphors, and other elements that transformed the ceremony into a theatrical multimedia spectacle rather than merely a light show. By combining cutting-edge technology with storytelling, the production sought to evoke emotion and immerse audiences in an unparalleled artistic experience.
Arthur Kond emphasized the honor and privilege of working on such a large-scale event, expressing hope that the documentary would showcase not only the technical process but also the passion, creativity, and dedication that fueled every aspect of the project. With this film, Sila Sveta aims to inspire motion design professionals and artists globally, demonstrating the power of collaboration and the seamless fusion of art and technology.
Renowned for its distinctive visual style, Sila Sveta has solidified its reputation through an impressive portfolio that spans world-class ceremonies, concerts, exhibitions, and immersive experiences. Over 16 years, the studio has completed over 800 projects across all continents, earning more than 150 international awards. With offices in Dubai, New York, and Limassol, the company continues to push creative boundaries, striving to unite innovation and artistic expression in every project it undertakes.
All images courtesy of Sila Sveta, shared with permission
Sila Sveta: https://www.silasveta.com/
