And “expose to the right”: rather than exposing for the highlights and pulling in shadows, do the opposite.
Expose for shadows, while trying not to completely blow out the highlights - again this is for noise reduction.
Use a good low light camera, Canon R6 or 1DX. Both can be rented if the image is worth it.
And of course the biggest widest (open) fastest lens you can find. Seriously though, a wide-angle will also maximise the close up, & minimise the distant (contrasting tail).
Good luck.