A backstage look at the Bon Jovi concert in Abu Dhabi - in pictures

Sound engineers wait at their stations on stage prior to the start of the concert. Delores Johnson / The National

The drumsticks await the band before the start of the Bon Jovi concert at Du Arena on Thursday night. Delores Johnson / The National

A view from behind the stage. Delores Johnson / The National

Green arrows help the performers navigate the darkened backstage area at the Bon Jovi concert. Delores Johnson / The National

A glimpse of the many tools needed to put on a concert sit on the stage set-up area prior to the start of the show. Delores Johnson / The National

A drummer’s kit bag in the set-up area before the start of the Bon Jovi concert at Du Arena in Abu Dhabi. Delores Johnson / The National

Guitars lie in wait to the right of the stage in case they are needed during the set. Delores Johnson / The National

Early fans patiently await the start of the Bon Jovi concert at Du Arena in Abu Dhabi on Thursday. Delores Johnson / The National

A behind-the-scenes look of the stage set-up area prior to the start of the Bon Jovi concert. Delores Johnson / The National

A good luck charm takes up residence backstage. Delores Johnson / The National

Reporter Rob Garratt and Photographer Delores Johnson got a chance to peek backstage before the Bon Jovi concert on Thursday night, catching a glimpse of all the instruments and equipment necessary to put on show for thousands.