Ghost Stage Designer Tobias Rylander Details the Band’s IMAX Show
Ghost is preparing the release of its concert film "2 Big 2 Rig" in IMAX, and stage designer Tobias Rylander explains how the band’s elaborate visual universe is built. In an exclusive interview published on 12 March 2024 by Metal Injection, Rylander describes the conceptual development, technical challenges, and collaborative process that bring Ghost’s occult‑themed performances to life. The interview, conducted in Stockholm, reveals that the film will capture the full scope of the band’s theatrical production, from the towering cathedral‑like set pieces to the synchronized lighting rigs that accompany each song. Rylander, who has worked with Ghost since the "Meliora" tour in 2015, says the new film required a redesign of the main stage to accommodate the IMAX format. He explains, "We had to think in three dimensions, not just a 2‑D backdrop, because the camera moves around the audience and the performers." ("Tuvimos que pensar en tres dimensiones, no solo en un fondo 2‑D, porque la cámara se mueve alrededor del público y los intérpretes.") The redesign involved expanding the central altar, adding a movable choir platform, and integrating a programmable LED ceiling that can display sigils, constellations, and animated fire effects in sync with the music. The interview also details the logistical coordination with director Johan Carlsson, who is directing the film, and the production team of Ghost’s live crew. Rylander notes, "Every light cue is pre‑programmed in a spreadsheet that aligns with the set changes, the pyrotechnics, and the on‑stage choreography." ("Cada señal de luz está preprogramada en una hoja de cálculo que se alinea con los cambios de escenario, la pirotecnia y la coreografía en el escenario.") This meticulous planning ensures that the IMAX capture does not miss any of the band’s signature moments, such as the appearance of the “Nameless Ghoul” during the encore of "Square Hammer." Ghost’s frontman Tobias Forge, whose full name is Tobias Forge, is also mentioned as a key collaborator. Rylander says, "Tobias (Forge) is very particular about the narrative flow of the show; he wants the audience to feel like they are entering a ritual, not just watching a concert." ("Tobias (Forge) es muy meticuloso con el flujo narrativo del espectáculo; quiere que el público sienta que está entrando en un ritual, no solo viendo un concierto.") The designer emphasizes that the visual language must complement the band’s lyrical themes of mysticism, rebellion, and theatricality. The context of this interview is the growing trend of metal bands delivering high‑budget cinematic experiences. Ghost’s previous live releases, such as "Popestar" (2016) and "A Pale Tour" (2020), were filmed for standard screens, but the shift to IMAX marks a significant escalation in production value. Fans can expect the film to premiere worldwide on 15 October 2024, followed by a limited theatrical run in major cities. The release is expected to boost ticket sales for the upcoming world tour, which begins in Helsinki on 22 November 2024. Overall, Rylander’s insights illustrate the intricate blend of artistry and technology that defines Ghost’s live shows. By translating the band’s occult aesthetic into an immersive IMAX experience, the concert film aims to set a new benchmark for rock and metal performances on the big screen, offering both longtime followers and new listeners a comprehensive view of Ghost’s theatrical vision.
Tobias Rylander overseeing Ghost's IMAX stage design
