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Goosebumps ( 1 / 5 )
Working in tight collaboration with the client, we married their vision with some technical magic — The result is one of our favorite events ever, one that still send chills down our spines. Here's what happened — Be sure to read to the end:
A few years back, we were working for a show producer and our common client was in the hair and fashion industry. Every two or three years they did a very large event showcasing the latest trends and products. It featured on-stage training, education and yes, lots of music and runway shows. This was the first year after their founder, Don, had passed. He was a beloved man; an industry giant. This was to be the first show since his death.
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Goosebumps ( 2 / 5 )
The audience of about 1200 streamed into the hall buzzing with anticipation. They were excited to start the weeklong program that would undoubtedly engage, excite, entertain and inspire. We chose a cold opening. When the audience was seated, the hall still roaring with anticipation, we began. The music swelled for a few seconds before fading along with the lights. We sat in total blackout for a few beats, then rolled a video paying tribute to Don's work and his life. The stage remained dark to heighten the drama.
It was emotional. The audience loved Don. He was like family. For many in attendance, his journey had been their journey as they came into their professional prime at the same time in their lives.
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Goosebumps ( 3 / 5 )
The tribute concluded with some video shot at a previous year's symposium. In it, Don was on stage talking to the audience, his passion always shining through. We started a very low bed of music under his talking.
The song chosen was Gimme Shelter, by The Rolling Stones; a song from Don's era. During the bridge, the female background vocals become dominant and are sung nearly a Capella over a low drum and bass guitar. The reverb on the vocals gives that part of the track a beautiful, yet haunting feel.
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Goosebumps ( 4 / 5 )
As Don wrapped up on stage, the music volume started to swell again, slowly getting louder. We timed the music so the tension was greatest just as Don smiled and waved to the audience. We froze the video just as he did a half turn, departing the stage one last time.
On our headsets, we heard the show caller say, "Standby lights and runway."
We waited a beat as the audience took in the moment. Then another.
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Goosebumps ( 5 / 5 )
In perfect sync, a barrage of white moving lights swept up from the floor to the stage, illuminating the runway. A nearly 6ft model burst through the darkness, strutting down the runway as the chorus thundered through the PA. The audience leapt to its feet and burst into a heart-felt, and for some, a tearful applause.
In that instance, we had honored Don's legacy as a man and his life's work. We had bridged the company's past, with its future, eliminating any doubt that his work would go on.
It was magic for anyone in the room. A true moment in time. One that still makes the hair on my arm stand up when I recall it.
This is why we do what we do.
