An epic drone light show featuring hundreds of animated drones will debut at Birmingham’s Edgbaston Stadium this autumn (Saturday 26 October). Created by local experiences company, Yuup, and Celestial - a multi-award-winning company specialising in drone entertainment - Evolution: The Drone Light Show promises to take audiences on a wild journey through time and space, telling the story of the birth of the universe and the beginnings of life on Earth. 

What’s On recently caught up with Ella Hogan from Edgbaston Stadium and Dominic Mills from Yuup to find out more about this innovative form of entertainment, and what audiences can expect...

What makes Edgbaston the perfect venue to host Evolution: The Drone Light Show?
Edgbaston Stadium is ideal due to its spacious layout and state-of-the-art facilities, which can comfortably accommodate large crowds while ensuring everyone has a clear view of the show. 
The venue's history of hosting major events also means it is well-equipped to handle the logistical demands of a large-scale drone show, providing amazing food and drink along the way.  

What’s behind the venue’s decision to move away from traditional firework displays in favour of this form of entertainment?
The decision aligns with growing trends towards sustainability and innovation. Drone light shows offer a visually stunning, eco-friendly alternative to fireworks, reducing noise pollution and the environmental impact of smoke and debris typically associated with pyrotechnics.  

Tell us about the audience experience. What can they expect?
This is a fantastic evening for all the family. The food village will provide a wide range of food and drink options to enjoy before the show, and then it’s time to take your seats for a spectacular evening of entertainment like nothing you’ve experienced before. The audience will watch an extraordinary story from the dawn of time. Evolution is the very latest in creative entertainment, with an epic celebration of life on Earth told through hundreds of animated drones. 
The show recreates monumental moments in history - from the Big Bang and reign of the dinosaurs, right through to the modern-day moon landings and life as it is today. Expect cutting-edge technology and immersive storytelling of epic proportions, along with a powerful cinematic soundtrack.  

How long does the performance last?
This is a 45-minute experience comprising an 18-minute pre-show entertainment and a 27-minute drone light show.

What else can visitors see and do on the night?
The host for the evening will be Ed James, from Heart FM’s Drivetime show. During the build-up to the event, Ed will be getting the audience excited with music, conversation and lots of interaction before the countdown to the start of the show itself. Immediately before the main show, there will be a short intro to Celestial, the show's creators, and an exciting new pre-show experience featuring drone racing.  

Any new additions to the show for 2024?
Yes, the drone show itself has doubled in length (now 27 minutes of flight time) and features a new voiceover and many more drone animations than the original iteration of the show first performed in 2023. Plus, there’s the brand-new pre-show drone racing.

Is it a seated or standing event?
Edgbaston will provide all spectators with seats for the show, with every seat having an amazing view of the entertainment. Wheelchair-accessible seating is available, and the venue is fully equipped to accommodate guests with disabilities, offering flat ground seating in designated areas. We also have sensory rooms to offer an interactive safe space for our guests.

How many drones make up Evolution?
The show features hundreds of drones, with multiple drone swarms launching throughout the show.  

How inclusive is the event for audiences with sensory needs and people with physical disabilities? 
Edgbaston is a fully accessible venue and tickets are available for wheelchair users in dedicated areas. Blue badge parking is available but must be pre-booked. Complimentary tickets are available for carers. Sensory Rooms are available for children and adults with sensory processing issues so that they can watch the show in a calm environment. More information about these facilities is available by contacting Edgbaston Customer Services.  

What measures will the venue put in place to ease footfall/traffic flow as people enter and exit the show?
We open the gates two hours before the pre-show, giving spectators plenty of time to arrive, grab food and drinks, and find their seats. 
To ensure a safe arrival and exit for all guests, road closures will be in place, with parking available just a short walk away. Multiple entry points will be available, with stewards and staff on hand to ensure everyone can enter quickly and safely. A shuttle bus service will be available from New Street Station from 5.30pm, providing a direct service to the stadium. This shuttle service will also be operational post-event for the return journey to New Street. 

Evolution - The Drone Light Show visits Edgbaston Stadium on Saturday 26 October. Tickets start at £21 and are on sale now at yuup.co/evolution