Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden launches virtual production stage

Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden (WBSL) has announced the launch of three new sound stages, providing 83,000 sq. ft. of additional production space at the UK facility and featuring the debut of V Stage, a cutting-edge virtual production stage.

House of the Dragon, HBO’s much-anticipated prequel to its acclaimed Game of Thrones series, is confirmed as the first production to use the new facilities. In addition to the extensive exterior backlot at WBSL, V Stage will provide unprecedented creative flexibility and enable the series to expand upon its existing variety of international landscapes.

V Stage is one of Europe’s largest virtual production stages. Offering 24,000 sq. ft. of total space, the inside will feature a 7,100-sq.-ft. wraparound virtual production environment, using a matrix of more than 2,600 LED panels integrated with a powerful, state-of -the-art processing system. Bespoke to this design is a dynamic ceiling offering an additional 5,544 sq. ft. of LED panels with eight sections that work independently of one another, lifting and tilting to provide a new level of creative scope.

“The launch of V Stage brings a completely new dimension to filmmaking at WBSL, providing an exciting environment in which to deliver a new level of creativity,” said Emily Stillman, SVP, studio operations, Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden. “With the show’s incredible imaginary worlds and exceptional quality HBO always delivers, House of the Dragon is the perfect production to maximize the unparalleled opportunities this space offers.”

“A production with the ambition and scale of House of the Dragon really requires a studio that can provide cutting-edge facilities,” said Janet Graham Borba, EVP, West Coast production, HBO. “The new virtual stage adds to the highly supportive home hub for the show at Leavesden and lets us take full advantage of the latest developments in technology.”

Since opening in 2012, WBSL has continually reinvested in its facilities and is now home to 19 sound stages, two water tanks and an extended backlot covering over 100 acres of clear horizon exterior landscape. Additional services include the only on-lot childcare facility in the UK, offering a flexible service for cast and crew; an onsite set lighting and rigging department; and post production sound and picture services.