NZ Stage Pioneer Channon Dies

Ray Channon, pioneer of the mobile venue in New Zealand, died at 70.

The size of his 372-square-meter foldable stage, which could be set up and dismantled in hours, enabled promoters to attract international acts.

Channon set up Associated Theatre Services in 1971 to supply gear for concerts.

In recent years, he ran the circus tent Supertop at Auckland’s Mount Smart Stadium.

It was home to Big Day Out’s dance club Boiler Room and hosted acts including Pearl Jam, Red Hot Chili Peppers and Foo Fighters.
Channon retired last year when its lease expired, after a decline in business.