5
min read -
November 26, 2025

How Blackbird Security Protected Vancouver’s Miku Expo 2024 Concert

By
Poppy Lodge

Japanese pop sensation Hatsune Miku came to UBC’s Thunderbird Stadium last Thursday, and over 80 Blackbird Security guards provided event security for the concert. Hatsune Miku is a popular idol from Japan who happens to be a digital fictional character. Her music is enjoyed by millions of fans around the world, 4000 of whom were in attendance in Vancouver last Thursday. 

Here’s how Blackbird Security kept the event secure from set-up through to the end of the show.

Blackbird Security event security in Vancouver at the UBC Thunderbird Stadium for Hatsune Miku Expo 2024

Event Security Guards Oversaw Setup And Asset Protection

How is a concert possible for a digital character? The answer lies in Miku Expo’s onstage screen, displaying a video of the character dancing, singing, and calling out to the audience in sync with music. This technology and the impressive floor-to-ceiling background stage design required multiple days of prior setup beginning Monday of last week. 

Blackbird’s event security guards were on site to ensure a smooth setup and security for the crew. This included patrolling the perimeter of the building, conducting identity checks at access points, overseeing vehicle access, and ensuring that the transport of equipment into the building was completed safely and without interference. Event security guards were positioned in key areas to protect expensive assets, including parking lots near transport trucks. 

While Miku herself is a digital character, a live band accompanied the pre-recorded vocal performance. Blackbird Security ensured that band members were able to access the building safely before the start of the concert and that their equipment remained protected throughout their time on the premises. 

Blackbird Security event security in Vancouver at the UBC Thunderbird Stadium for Hatsune Miku Expo 2024

Uniformed Security Guards Ensured Crowd Control

UBC Thunderbird Stadium utilized two lineups for attendees: one for concert-goers with assigned seating and one for general admission floor seats. When doors opened at 7:00 PM, both lineups stretched onto UBC’s sidewalks. When events see large numbers of guests, a high level of crowd management is necessary. Blackbird’s event security guards deliver expertly, with guards patrolling the lineup, directing guests and ensuring order and safety within the crowd.

Our clients can choose the uniform Blackbird Security guards wear on duty, allowing for customized deportment. At UBC, our event security guards wore grey collared t-shirts or grey zip-up jackets, branded with Blackbird Security’s logo and name. This distinguished them from the Thunderbird Stadium’s internal staff members while upholding a professional appearance. 

Blackbird Security event security in Vancouver at the UBC Thunderbird Stadium for Hatsune Miku Expo 2024

Event Security Guards Facilitated Pat-downs, Bag Checks, and Ticket Checking

When attendees reached the front of the line, Blackbird Security guards directed them to smaller lineups where event security guards performed pat downs and bag checks. This ensured that no weapons or prohibited items were carried into the venue. The security guards performing pat downs and bag checks were equal numbers of men and women, providing guests comfort and safety. 

At Blackbird Security, customer service is our priority. Our security guards undergo customer service training to learn tools to best interact with the public and facilitate positive experiences. This allows our entire team to take a customer service-first approach to security, a factor that sets us apart from competitors

Blackbird Security event security in Vancouver at the UBC Thunderbird Stadium for Hatsune Miku Expo 2024

Security Within The Concert

Blackbird Security guards were strategically stationed within hallways and at access points, ensuring attendees followed building rules and steered clear of any prohibited areas. This is especially important at concert venues to ensure guests do not run through the hallways and injure themselves or others. 

Emergency response is another guest safety factor that must be considered at concerts. Blackbird Security guards receive first aid training, providing valuable support for attendees and venue staff should a medical emergency occur. 

In addition to first aid training, our event security guards experience emergency response training, learning procedures for handling security incidents and emergencies such as fires. Our security team works with venue staff to learn internal protocols, such as evacuation plans, to prepare for emergencies.

Blackbird Security event security in Vancouver at the UBC Thunderbird Stadium for Hatsune Miku Expo 2024

Partner With Vancouver’s Number One Event Security Provider

Thanks to the diligence of our event security guards, security at Miku Expo 2024’s Vancouver stop went off without a hitch, allowing fans to enjoy the concert safely. We at Blackbird Security have extensive experience securing high-profile events in major Canadian cities such as Vancouver and Toronto. Our industry knowledge, well-trained security staff, and streamlined procedures enable a premium experience for each of our event clients.

Are you interested in having Blackbird Security keep your next high-profile event secure? Get in touch with us at the form below to get started.

Diagram showing harmful X-rays blocked by a lead apron and harmless light passing through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What services do security companies offer?
At Blackbird Security, we offer a range of security services, such as:
- On-site uniform security
- Luxury suit & tie security
- Mobile patrols
- Alarm response
- Access control
- CCTV monitoring
- Event security
- Loss prevention (undercover security)
- Tactical Security
- Concierge/Front Desk Security
- Executive Protection
- Office & Facilities Security
- Government Security
- Parking Enforcement
- Residential Security
These services work in unison to safeguard businesses, people, and assets, offering peace of mind and comprehensive protection.At Blackbird Security, we are industry leaders in providing all of these services. Our expertise ensures tailored security solutions that meet your specific requirements. Browse further to learn more: Blackbird Security Services - Blackbird Security
Can security services be customized?
Many providers offer standard security programs, but Blackbird Security emphasizes a collaborative approach to customization. By considering factors such as your industry, location, size, and specific risks, we work closely with you to design security strategies that fit your needs. This might include adjusting patrol schedules, reporting frequency, or tailoring patrol routes to align with your operations.This is possible through our dedicated Client Services team as well as our in-house Control Centre and Reporting teams. Customization is a fundamental part of how we provide effective and seamless security solutions
Are security providers in Canada regulated?
Yes, most countries and regions (including Canada) have licensing bodies and regulations that govern security providers. Check local laws to ensure your provider complies with these standards.
How do I measure the effectiveness of security measures?
Measuring the effectiveness of security measures involves tracking key performance indicators (KPIs) to evaluate how well systems and personnel are meeting safety and asset protection goals. Start by analyzing incident response times, reductions in theft, vandalism, or shrinkage, and overall resolution rates for reported issues. Comparing pre- and post-implementation data helps demonstrate tangible improvements in safety and loss prevention. Regular audits, surveys, and risk assessment reports can also gauge the reliability and perception of security measures.

Key KPIs to track include:
- Incident response times: Faster responses to alarms or emergencies.
- Reduction in theft/vandalism: Compare loss data before and after implementation.
- Patrol compliance: Track patrol frequency and adherence via GPS or logs.
- False alarm rates: Lower rates ensure focus on real threats.
- Client/Employee satisfaction: Gather feedback to measure confidence in security.
- Client services: Dedicated account representative who supports ongoing needs & can adjust strategy as needed
What level of support can I expect from Blackbird Security
We ensure all of our clients have the utmost support for their businesses, and there's a few ways we do this:

- Allowing access to our 24/7 Control centre for all clients, which is based out of our head office in Vancouver, BC. Clients can call this centre and have a mobile guard swiftly deployed to their business for any spontaneous incidents that occur. We believe in operating it inhouse to ensure all services are streamlined and optimized for the best communication. Our control canter can be reached at this number for current clients: 1-888-991-2622.
- We have a dedicated client services team which directly communicates with clients on a day-to-day basis. Our client services often perform site check ups and can assist with any issues that arise at your business.

Your peace of mind is our priority. We’re more than a service provider—we’re a partner in protecting your business. With our team working tirelessly to anticipate and resolve challenges, you can focus on running your business with confidence, knowing we’re always here to support you. Together, we build safer environments and stronger partnerships, every step of the way.

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