Objective
Our discerning client wanted to top events they hosted in previous years’ destinations. We recommended that this evening focus on Vancouver’s natural beauty and to host their traditionally formal gala in a rainforest, literally surrounding guests in nature.
Challenges
- We designed the space for a maximum of 150 guests. Response to the event was much greater than originally anticipated and the guest list ballooned from 90 to 190 within days of the event.
- The increase in guests presented significant challenges to the tent configuration layout, which needed to be redesigned for optimal performance viewing.
- Changing the traditional stage for the round performance stage wouldn’t work with the customized production that the opera singers and violinist had rehearsed.
Strategy
- Our long-standing relationship with the venue allowed us early access to reconfigure the event build-out to accommodate the additional guests.
- Opera performance was re-engineered from traditional front to “in-the-round” staging to allow clear sight lines for all guests.
- We collaborated with Vancouver Opera talent to re-choreograph the performance based on the new round stage and adjusted production elements.
The Result
A wildly elegant celebration in the heart of a coastal rainforest featuring an inspired Celtic musical performance by acclaimed Vancouver Opera Singers. Our client and guests were thrilled with this refreshing gala, and awarded the evening with a long standing ovation. One guest, a former opera singer, congratulated the performers in person for their flawless adaptability to perform on a round stage.
