Severn Trent

VE Day 80 Dam Illumination

With just a few weeks’ notice, White Event Production was approached by Severn Trent to deliver a large-scale illumination project in honour of the 80th anniversary of VE Day. The brief: to transform the iconic Derwent Dam — famous for its connection to the Dambusters — into a dramatic visual tribute seen by the public and captured by the press.

The challenge wasn’t just the creative vision. This remote public site presented logistical and operational complexities: limited infrastructure, the need for temporary power generation, robust IP-rated equipment to withstand open-air conditions, and site security. All this, while working within a tight schedule and ensuring public safety in addition to careful ecological planning for Bats and Kestrels. The dam wall is almost the same height as two Angel of the North statues and the same width of 22 double decker busses so careful planning was required to create an impactful moment whilst working within a moderate budget.

Our Approach

From concept to execution, our expert team moved quickly to deliver a design worthy of the occasion. Using a powerful rig of 19 IP-rated high-output moving lights — including Ayrton Dominos and Chauvet Maverick Storm fixtures — we brought the dam to life in vivid red, white, and blue with rich textures and sweeping effects. In addition custom gobos were used to help commemorate the occasion with the official VE Day 80 logo and Union Jack flag.

As a nod to the landmarks legacy two custom gobos of Lancaster Bomber planes projected across the dam wall alongside sky tracking search lights.

The Result

The event was met with universal acclaim. Liv Garfield, CEO of Severn Trent, commented on the “super proud moment” and appreciation of our teams execution despite a myriad of challenges and complexities along the way.

Coverage included widespread press attention, with visuals appearing in The Telegraph alongside major landmarks like Buckingham Palace. The installation also attracted attention across LinkedIn and local media, positioning Severn Trent as a key supporter of the national moment of reflection and a fitting tribute to the history of the dam.