The Brief
This year’s Hyatt Client Appreciation Event returned to Grand Hyatt Melbourne and delivered a feast for the senses for 80 special guests. Each year the highly anticipated event provides the opportunity for the Hyatt brand to showcase the chosen venue’s meeting and events offering. It’s a chance for both Hyatt and Encore to work together to dazzle, inspire, and leave guests with a lasting impression of why Grand Hyatt Melbourne is in the top echelon of Australia’s corporate event venues.
The brief to long-standing in-house event production partner, Encore, was to highlight Grand Hyatt Melbourne’s unique offering – its unparalleled location, the diversity and versatility of event spaces, and the world-class production and technology expertise available to planners.
The Solution
Under the guise of ‘Grand, Personified’, Encore’s in-house team designed and delivered a sensory experience of Melbourne through the eyes of Grand Hyatt Melbourne. The idea underpinning the concept was taking guests on a journey through the vibrant city and how the venue is intricately woven into its rich history and culture. With its central location, Grand Hyatt Melbourne was brought to life as the beating heart of the city. As only “a tram stop away” from all the city’s major landmarks, it was fitting to turn the event’s registration desk into a Melbourne tram stop. From there guests were ushered down a green carpet into the Courtyard to enjoy arrival drinks and canapés. The Courtyard is a unique space designed to emulate the many lush parklands surrounding the hotel, which play host to some of the country’s major sporting events. Lining the green carpet stood LED Pixel Totems displaying iconic Melbourne sporting experiences. Alongside the Pixel Totems, beautiful flower performers greeted guests adding an artistic flair to the magical parklands space. Guests next journeyed into the Verandah for the main dining experience. Here, the Encore team used Touch Kiosk for the seating chart – turning a somewhat taxing task into a streamlined digital experience where guests found their seats at the touch of a button.
The Verandah was designed to celebrate Melbourne’s iconic culture and art scene. Encore employed a range of audio and lighting technologies to transform the venue walls not only into works of art, but a historical journey of Grand Hyatt Melbourne’s part in the development of Melbourne. A simple yet effective lighting solution was used to decorate the tables, with LED lights placed underneath turning them into colorful beacons that glowed throughout the night. A novel approach was used to make the dining menus more tactile, replacing the standard flat piece of cardboard for a fun puzzle guests enjoyed completing. Guests were then treated to some of Melbourne’s finest foods and wine from Executive Chef Steven Beaumont and his team. Whilst guests enjoyed the smell and taste sensations, their ears were also treated to mesmerizing sounds from a live three-piece band playing in the adjacent Library. It was a truly captivating dining experience.
And there was more to come.
Following dinner, guests were invited back through the doors they entered from to be welcomed by an entirely new space. During the dinner, Encore’s production team went to work to completely transform the Courtyard from a magical parkland into a vibrant concert-like space. The impact of the unveiling lived up to expectations with guests left speechless at the transformation and the spectacle that awaited them. Encore used creative lighting and haze to deliver an atmosphere that was sure to get the party started. Guests were entertained by FX Entertainment, a unique mosaic-mirror-clad duo that danced and performed mime. At the final turn of the decks by DJ DuJour, the event concluded. Whilst it was officially over, it was also officially an outstanding success with guests complimenting Grand Hyatt Melbourne and Encore on a truly wonderful evening.
Client comment:
“Thank you so much for the most magnificent dinner on Tuesday night. The whole experience was magnificent. The food was exceptional, every dish being a piece of art. The Melbourne theme was also beautifully executed. I may be copying it in the future!!”
Demonstrating innovation and creativity, Crown Melbourne & Encore invited key clients and industry guests to ‘Look through the cut glass’.
The immersive event demonstrated the future of 5 star hospitality and innovative event technology – where innovation meets ambiance.
Guests were invited to imagine a world where every beam of light dances through intricately designed cut glass crystal, casting a mesmerising kaleidoscope of colours that elevates events into a new level of sophistication.
This creative strategy set the tone for the event as we celebrated the two partners combine to one in true partnership.
In a stunningly presented room, Encore curated and produced all factettes of the experience bringing the vision to life & creating an extraordinary spectacle, through content, lighting and event technology, while art directing the entertainment and hospitality aspects of the event.
Like the refined colours and flavours of the carefully curated whisky presented in a cut glass, the luscious hospitality provided by Crown sung a symphony of flavour, whilst Encore’s innovative creativity, technology and production created a truly immersive experience.
It was an unforgettable evening, featuring the latest innovations such as a giant immersive LED Cube, LED DJ booth, in-door pyrotechnics, next-gen multimedia content, and entertainers encased in LED lighting cages alongside modular 3D LED constructs.
But the excitement didn’t end there! Our L-Acoustic speaker system, cranked up, filled the venue with thumping sound as DJ Eliza brought the good vibes from her custom-built booth.
The talented chefs and team from Crown Melbourne treated the VIP guests to impeccable catering including a floating antipasto table, delicious canapés, and refreshing Four Pillars cocktails served by the Crown Events and Conferencing team.
A final engagement element was Encore’s Chime platform which was used as custom event ap and linked the invite so guests could seamlessly learn about the event, team, products, offers and seamlessly RSVP. Then for the event and post event it was enabled as a networking platform so guest could see information on key stakeholders in the room and view brochures and gallery for the event. It will remain live so key clients and event organisers can reference it when they need to.
This event was truly immersive, as we not only created magical moments but also unveiled innovative event concepts and designs, explored the latest trends in immersive events, and celebrated the power of unforgettable experiences.
It wasn’t just another gathering – it was a celebration of collaboration, creativity, and client success! Together with Crown, Encore redefined that it’s not about the technology but about how to best use the technology to convey your creative strategy.
The Brief
Encore was engaged by, Mumbai based, BOI Media and Entertainment working with ICICI Prudential Life, to create a prestigious gala dinner for the ICICI Prudential Life 20th Starclub Incentive Conference. A five-day event celebrating the company’s top performers.
ICICI Prudential Life were offering a once in a lifetime opportunity to nearly 800 participants to be flown from India to Melbourne for the occasion.
The scale and prestige of this annual event is legendary and incentivises employees to strive for an invitation to the next trip. This trip however had been delayed since 2019 and would be the first since Covid and be among the first major events for the Encore team post-Covid.
One more important detail, Encore was now operating in a new world with higher wages and high inflation; so, the solution needed to be carefully thought through to deliver on the original concept without adding financial pressure.
The Solution
With India being a cricket-loving nation, BOI requested the theme for the Gala Dinner to be ‘Master Blasters’.
Through the use of kinetic lights, a 22m wide curved screen, table projections and extensive room lighting, the Grand Palladium room at Crown Melbourne gradually transformed and transported the audience to the grounds of the MCG.
Entertainers and chefs were specially flown in from India to add to the atmosphere and authenticity of the evening.
The Encore team found clever alternative solutions to reduce costs without reducing the impact. The team also leveraged their strong relationships with suppliers to deliver the project on budget but with no compromise on quality.
The Result
As soon as guests walked the red carpet into the Grand Palladium their jaws dropped.
The impact of the Gala Dinner was as dramatic and memorable as it was symbolic. It encompassed a cultural vibe for the Indian delegation and recognition of what Melbourne stands for as an international conference city.
Encore overcame monumental challenges to deliver an event that exceeded the high client expectations and was highly successfully for all stakeholders.
A magnificent result was delivered by Encore for BOI and ICICI Prudential Life; the team were back to black and gig fit!
Encore Event Technologies APAC orchestrated an unparalleled experience for 10,000 Chinese visitors during the 2023 Amway China Leadership Seminar in New Zealand.
This article highlights how Encore’s innovative approach to event creative, technology and production set a new industry benchmark, delivering an unforgettable journey that combined technological wizardry with cultural immersion.
The challenge
Over two months, 10,000 delegates were flown in 12 waves to New Zealand for the seminar, showcasing Amway’s commitment to recognising top performers. The program featured a series of events and excursions across Auckland and Queenstown, rewarding excellence and fostering brand allegiance among attendees.
Creative inspiration
The superscale events which took up more than 6,000 work hours included 155sqm LED screens, fifteen 20k projectors, 80 table projectors, eight curved screen projectors, four floor projectors, six semi-trailers hauling equipment and even an ice rink.
The concluding gala events held at the Viaduct Events Centre in Auckland and then the second streams at the Queenstown Ice Arena for the event highlight of the trip, treated guests to a spectacular night full of creative, technological wizardry and heart pumping entertainment.
Technological innovation
Encore’s technical expertise was showcased through the utilisation of cutting-edge equipment, including the L-Acoustics L2D Loudspeakers, setting a new standard in audio delivery. The event boasted superscale setups, including LED screens, projectors, and specialised effects, creating an immersive environment that captivated guests.
Production excellence
Managing the logistics of such a large-scale event was a significant undertaking for Encore, requiring meticulous planning and coordination. The production team dedicated over 6,000 work hours to ensure seamless execution, from rigging to immersive screen content creation.
Economic impact
Beyond its experiential success, the seminar had a substantial economic impact, generating an estimated NZ $40 million for the local economy. Encore’s collaboration with Auckland Convention Group and Queenstown Convention Bureau facilitated pre-event activities and accommodation arrangements, maximising the delegate experience.
Cultural celebration
The gala dinners held at the Viaduct Events Centre in Auckland and Queenstown Ice Arena were the highlight of the seminar, showcasing Aotearoa New Zealand’s culture and spirit. Encore’s creative approach incorporated lighting, sound, and visual elements to celebrate contemporary Māori culture, leaving a lasting impression on attendees.
The result
Encore’s involvement in the Amway China Leadership Seminar exemplifies the transformative power of business events. By seamlessly blending technological innovation with cultural celebration, Encore created an experience that transcended traditional event boundaries, leaving a lasting impact on attendees and the host communities alike.
Encore’s tech spectacle for Amway China’s elite in NZ raises the bar in event production
Encore Event Technologies APAC have shattered the boundaries of event excellence, unveiling an unparalleled experience for 10,000 Chinese visitors that redefines the standards of extravagance. This was not just a celebration; it was an electrifying showcase of innovation and technology, a spectacle that will be etched in memory for a lifetime.
Picture this: a delegation flown to New Zealand in 12 waves, embarking on a two-month odyssey from October 9 to December 5 for the 2023 Amway China Leadership Seminar. What awaited them was not just a series of gala dinners but a sensory explosion of sights and sounds meticulously crafted by Encore.
The pièce de résistance? A mind-blowing final gala night held 15 times throughout the period at the Viaduct Events Centre in Auckland and the Queenstown Ice Arena. A year in the making, each event was a symphony of technological marvels and heart-stopping entertainment that left attendees breathless.
Picture this: a delegation flown to New Zealand in 12 waves, embarking on a two-month odyssey from October 9 to December 5 for the 2023 Amway China Leadership Seminar. What awaited them was not just a series of gala dinners but a sensory explosion of sights and sounds meticulously crafted by Encore.
Now, let’s talk tech. Encore, always at the forefront of innovation, showcased the L-Acoustics L2D Loudspeakers, a game-changer that marked them as the sole APAC company outside the global pilot program. According to Daniel Lourenco, the Director of Innovation and Technology, these speakers aren’t just you average everyday line array speakers; they’re a revolution. “They give greater horizontal dispersion at the front of the stage, extreme amount of energy reproduction, quick and efficient setup time, resulting in a sound quality that frankly gives you goosebumps.“
The scale of these events was colossal, with over 6,000 work hours dedicated to an array of technology that would make your jaw drop. 155sqm LED screens, 15x 20K projectors, 80 table projectors, eight curved screen projectors, and an ice rink – yes, an ice rink – were just the tip of the technological iceberg. More than 600 hours of custom motion design content transported attendees through the breathtaking landscapes of New Zealand on a giant, mountain-shaped central LED.
Delegates in Queenstown were also treated to an incredible display on ice. Daniel explains, “The five skater performers wore 3D tracking beacons driven by Disguise software and we used real time generated tracking content utilising Notch and automated follow-system Zactrack for video and lighting tracking, leaving a visual trail of butterflies or fish. We also had the tracking system on the main performer which really added to his performance.”
To enable the artists to move around without having to walk or skate on the ice, Wahlberg remote controlled motorised platforms were flown in from Germany,
“Traditionally they are used to move stage platforms but we changed the tyres, put studs on them and converted them into bespoke purpose built platforms that we could use to drive the MC and lead singer to the stage and create a bridge to the VIP area. It worked surprisingly well after a lot of fine tuning and rehearsal. We put dedicated cameras in the roof to give the operators a bird’s eye view and attention to detail was paramount as we all understood the safety concerns, particularly around acceleration and deceleration.”
But it wasn’t just about visuals. Encore wove a technological tapestry, utilising Disguise software, Notch, and Zactrack for real-time 3D mapping, turning performances into mesmerising experiences with trails of butterflies and fish.
In the words of John Schryver – Special Events Director for Amway 2023
“We didn’t just aim for an event; we aimed for an extraordinary journey. The feedback from attendees confirms that we didn’t just meet expectations; we exceeded them, delivering an experience that was truly transformative and unforgettable.
For Encore the 2023 Amway China Leadership Seminar set a new benchmark for their event delivery capabilities, showcasing their aptitude for creating experiences that go beyond the ordinary, their global procurement networks, and their local knowledge and expertise.
Encore’s masterpiece in immersive event design & creative strategy produces a thrilling once-in-a-lifetime odyssey in New Zealand for Amway China’s top 10,000 reps.
The massive delegation of top Amway reps was flown to New Zealand in 12 waves over two months from 9 October to 5 December for the 2023 Amway China Leadership Seminar, produced by Encore Event Technologies APAC.
Attendees were treated to an extensive program of events, seminars and excursions that rewarded exceptional performance and elevated brand allegiance whilst enjoying all the incredible sights and adventures New Zealand has to offer.
Encore dedicated their heavyweight creative, production and technology expertise to deliver a brand-defining set of ‘moments that matter’. These included pre-event tourist experiences, business sessions and 15 extravagant gala dinners with unforgettable show performances – embracing the organisation’s values and the best of New Zealand.
The superscale events which took more than 6,000 work hours to create included 155sqm LED screens, fifteen 20k projectors, 80 table projectors, eight curved screen projectors, four floor projectors, six semi-trailers hauling equipment and even an ice rink with advanced content tracking sensors to highlight live performers on the ice.
The concluding gala events held at the Viaduct Events Centre in Auckland and then the second streams at the Queenstown Ice Arena for the event highlight of the trip, treated guests to a spectacular creative visual feast and heart pumping entertainment.
An event of this magnitude required Encore’s special events teams to apply a systematic and creative approach to design a solution for this large-scale event. They began by applying a design thinking methodology to develop a creative strategy and event theming based on the client’s brief, their brand, the purpose of the event and profiles of attendees. The team considered every aspect of the delegate experience from creative design to technical and production solutions to devise an unforgettable event with lasting impact.
Encore APAC’s Creative Director, Julz Partington highlighted the significant role that ‘design thinking’ played in bringing these events to life.
“Design thinking is critical in everything that we do. We take a step back and we think about an event as a creative strategy and a journey. It really is about creating an immersive experience and combining creative, technical and production elements into a unified theme. From table decor, the set, entertainment, the sound and lighting. It’s all part of that strategy. And if you know what that creative strategy messaging is, then really it flows on from there”.
Design thinking is a process that puts understanding the event attendees and their needs at the forefront of design and decision-making; combining elements of empathy, ideation, and prototyping to create solutions that are both effective and user-focused.
“It’s not just about the hospitality, the technology or the decor but about all of these notes as a whole and ensuring that when they are put together they sing the same tune.” added Julz Partington.
“Design thinking is critical in everything that we do. We take a step back and we think about an event as a creative strategy and a journey...And if you know what the creative strategy messaging is, then everything else flows from there."
For the gala, a wide range of innovative technologies were used with panoramic scenes of New Zealand’s natural wonders played across a giant, mountain shaped central LED, flanked by additional curved projection screens and 3D-mapping on the stage floor. Snow machines, special effects and multi-sensory interactive displays of earth, water, fire and air dazzled guests.
Projection mapping was also used to enhance the whole experience. Each dining table and even individual plates had individual animated projected designs, which changed throughout the night to including stunning New Zealand themed creative themes and Amway branded designs.
“There is a VIP table which has their own dedicated mapping content. We’re also projection mapping the stage as well for when talent and performers are on stage, and it flows through to the LED […] in a customised configuration” – said Daniel Lourenco, Director of Innovation & Technology, Encore APAC
During meal service the giant, mountain-shaped LED display capped with imitation snow-caps underwent a dramatic transformation with lava projections oozing over the stage, creating an impressive backdrop for performers, Strings of Fire, who combined pyrotechnics and acrobatic stunts to music setting the stage literally ‘ablaze’.
Entertainment included trio JGEEKS who combined traditional Māori moves with modern dance techniques and humour, C-Pop singer Laurence Larson and multimedia performers Vosper Tron. Throughout the evening, care was taken to ensure the performances and scenography intertwined to reinforce Amway values of harmony, wonder and partnership.
Daniel Lourenco emphasised that all this was possible because of the strong creative direction from the outset and the team’s laser-focus on creating the best possible experience for attendees.
“It’s got to be something different, something special to make it memorable and something that they will take back with them and go, you know what, that was an absolutely amazing show”
Scott Nodsle, Encore’s Managing Director of APAC said the company’s mission has always been to ‘follow our customer’s journey and create events that transform and experiences that go beyond the ordinary’.
“Encore’s successful involvement in Amway China’s Leadership Seminar demonstrates how far business events can go beyond mere logistics to leave a lasting impact on attendees,”
“Events can be a catalyst for change, whether it’s inspiring new ideas, fostering meaningful connections, or driving positive transformation within an organisation,” said Mr Nodsle.
“So, it’s important to create an environment that encourages growth, innovation, and personal development.”
Mr Nodsle, further elaborates on the significance of creating bucket-list memories through international incentives in this article.
A thrilling once-in-a-lifetime experience in New Zealand for 10,000 visitors from China has set a new industry benchmark in event delivery.
The massive delegation was flown to New Zealand in 12 waves over two months from 9 October to 5 December for the 2023 Amway China Leadership Seminar, produced by Encore Event Technologies APAC.
Attendees were treated to an extensive program of events and excursions that rewarded exceptional performance and elevated brand allegiance whilst enjoying all the incredible sights and adventures New Zealand has to offer.
Encore won the competitive bidding process which resulted in visitors filling 20,000 hotel nights in Queenstown and Auckland and funneled an estimated NZ $40 million into the economy. Auckland Convention Bureau and Queenstown Convention Bureau managed the pre-event activities including tourist activities to showcase each local area.
Encore dedicated their heavyweight creative, production and technology expertise to deliver a brand-defining set of ‘moments that matter’. These included leadership sessions, cocktail receptions and 15 gala dinners with main show performances – embracing the organisation’s values and the best of New Zealand.
The event highlight was a stunning final gala night dinner which was staged 15 times throughout the period to visitor groups of approximately 600 per event. Held at the Viaduct Events Centre in Auckland and Queenstown Ice Arena the galas, which took a year to plan, treated guests to a spectacular night full of technological wizardry and heart pumping entertainment.
Scott Nodsle, Encore’s Managing Director of APAC said the company’s mission has always been to ‘follow our customer’s journey and create events that transform and experiences that go beyond the ordinary’.
“Encore’s successful involvement in Amway China’s Leadership Seminar demonstrates how far business events can go beyond mere logistics to leave a lasting impact on attendees,”
For the gala a wide range of innovative technologies were used with panoramic scenes of New Zealand’s natural wonders played across a 3D-mapped 180-degree projection screen via 80 table projectors. Snow machines, special effects and multi-sensory interactive displays of earth, water, fire and air dazzled guests. More than 600 hours of custom motion design content was created across the two locations.
During meal service the room underwent a dramatic transformation with lava projections oozing over the stage, creating an impressive backdrop for performers, Strings of Fire, who combined pyrotechnics and acrobatic stunts to music setting the stage literally ‘ablaze’.
Entertainment included trio JGEEKS who combined traditional Māori moves with modern dance techniques and humour, C-Pop singer Laurence Larson and multimedia performers Vosper Tron. Throughout the evening, care was taken to ensure the performances and scenography intertwined to reinforce Amway values of harmony, wonder and partnership.
Encore has a long history of delivering experiences for Amway the direct selling business, having devised similar trips for delegations from Taiwan, Vietnam, Hong Kong, South Korea and Russia over the past 18 years in addition to other events for international clients.
Mr Nodsle said incentive awards are also evolving within corporations from transactional to transformational. “Rewarding high performers beyond cash bonuses with an experience is invaluable,” he says. “What’s more, colleagues having the time of their life with like minds is a proven motivator that enriches brand allegiance.
“Events can be a catalyst for change, whether it’s inspiring new ideas, fostering meaningful connections, or driving positive transformation within an organization. So, it’s important to create an environment that encourages growth, innovation, and personal development.”
“Post-COVID, events have redoubled their power to connect and inspire. When people come together, ideas take flight and relationships strengthen. Even more so when the experiences fuse imagination, ingenuity, and innovation in culture-rich destinations that elevate a brand’s emotional resonance. What you see is teams buzzing with energy and enthusiasm – both for the company and the country they’ve visited.”
“Events can be a catalyst for change, whether it's inspiring new ideas, fostering meaningful connections, or driving positive transformation within an organization....”
Ken Pereira, Head of Auckland Convention Bureau at Tātaki Auckland Unlimited, said that the gala dinners were a highlight of the itinerary. “Delegates were wowed by the gala dinners. The evenings showcased Aotearoa New Zealand’s culture and spirit, brought to life through a dynamic set up of lighting, sound and visual elements. A key point of difference for hosting an incentive trip in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland is the contemporary Māori culture at the heart of the region, and we were thrilled to see this celebrated at the dinners.”
Mr Nodsle said Encore had seen an immediate and sustained increase in interest in companies looking to scale up their incentives on the back of Amway China’s 2023 New Zealand trip. “The memories for participants are ever-lasting and the positive effects of these events for tourism and the visitor economy continue to flow.”
Raising the bar in creative design: Encore creates an enchanted wonderland The Million Dollar Lunch
Encore transformed the Palladium at Crown Melbourne into a mystical wonderland experience for guests at The Million Dollar Lunch – the AFL’s annual fundraiser for Children’s Cancer Council.
Encore has partnered AFL to deliver the annual fundraiser for more than 10 years. For the recent event, the brief was to transform the gala into an elegant, immersive and never before seen experience for 600 guests.
From the beginning of the process, Encore’s event designers and creative project managers focused on the overall creative strategy. More than 100 hours went into the creative design phase with even more given to creative production, setup, client walk-throughs and show-day production. The Encore team then produced life-like 3D render illustrations, and technical illustrations to demonstrate their creative vision.
The theme of ‘Enchanted wonderland’, called for custom design/bespoke decals, décor, props, that all had to be designed, fabricated and installed within a tight timeframe.
Photo credits: Jonathan DiMaggio; Graham Denholm
Additionally, audio-visual technology and lighting scenes were masterfully developed to create and compliment the magical experience.
The storybook inspired décor elegantly-designed themed areas, cutting-edge audio-visual and lighting technology including LED Cubes displays were all integrated with the luxury venue to elevate the event into a never seen experience – certainly worthy of the name ‘Million Dollar’ lunch.
The Encore creative team paid particular focus on the guests’ journey through the magical experience. Guests arrived at the Atrium greeted by a custom floor decal reminiscent of a ‘rabbit hole’, signaling the start of a magical journey. As the guests made their way through the Atrium to the Palladium, they encountered checkered floor and vortex decals accompanied by oversized ‘this way – that way’ themed signage protruding out of whimsical floral bases. ‘Drink me’ carts with signature cocktails were serviced by storybook inspired characters.
At the end of the pre-function area, guests continued their adventure up the escalators where they were greeted by more storybook-inspired characters, inviting them to travel further through and entrance feature doors constructed as a giant book– like a literary portal to an enchanting world of fantasy and intrigue.
Photo credits: Jonathan DiMaggio; Graham Denholm
As guests turned through the pages of the storybook tunnel, they entered the ‘Queens Court’ – a lusciously red-lit, velvet-draped room, decorated with chess-piece themed cocktail tables leading to a red and white floral-embellished throne set in front of an illuminated backdrop. The Queen sat on an all-white throne greeting guests in character.
Guests had a photo opportunity at the Queen’s Court before finding their allocated seats on the digital display kiosk before walking into the main room and the adventures within.
Following the red-lit, heart shaped themed Queen’s Court, guests entered into a lush green scenery – a wonderland garden complete with giant plants, forest ferns, décor mushrooms and wildlife; including an ornate, oversized candelabra – flanking a Neon arch entrance drawing guests into a spinning world of a ‘Topsy turvy tea party’.
Photo credits: Jonathan DiMaggio; Graham Denholm
The main room was themed as a whimsical and lush garden tea party and featured a central main stage for formalities and a satellite stage hosting the live band. Encore paid special attention to radial sound dispersion from a centralised audio cluster given its flown location and guests being seated around the central stage.
Lighting was precisely designed to perfectly complement the event theme with both intelligent beam fixtures, custom designed GOBO’s and a series of colour wash across the venue. The lighting effects were stunning as the light shimmered and sparkled against the silver sequin drapes that lined the perimeter of the room.
Encore utilised the latest in LED display technology constructing six giant LED cubes suspended from the ceiling, running customised content. These innovative displays were used to create hype moments with custom animations produced by Encore featuring live tally of funds raised as record donations poured in.
Pocket watches hung from the ceiling with themed animations showcasing each auction item and show the formalities, while also showing live to camera shots of the entertainment, MC and speeches.
“Their creativity and technology solutions are just simply mind blowing. They are the best in the business when it comes to creating immersive themed events”
Tables draped in green velvet overlays and custom printed doily bases created a unique tea party style including enchanted florals, teacups, glass candlesticks, butterflies, and tall candelabras.
Photo credits: Jonathan DiMaggio; Graham Denholm
Once the formalities were complete, VIP guests were surprised to find the seamless sequin drapes peel open up to reveal a speakeasy afterparty!
The creative for this room was inspired by the key and the bronze and checker elements. The magic continued with an infinity, LED checkered dance floor and ‘Key hole’ DJ stage. The attention to detail extended to an enchanted floating desert table offering yummy treats.
The Million Dollar Lunch event raised more than $2.9 million in much needed funds for the Children’s Cancer Council.
Photo credits: Jonathan DiMaggio; Graham Denholm
Photo credits: Jonathan DiMaggio; Graham Denholm
Encore was approached to assist with the production and planning of HX2023, Harcourts Australia National conference. A series of events including Launch & Opening Address, Under The Sea networking party and National Awards Gala.
The conference would be taking place in two Gold Coast locations, The Star and SeaWorld, over two full days. Harcourts had come with an initial plan that put into practice, would was exceed budget and prove unsustainable. Encore was able to diversify the proposed plan and bring the same immersive effect while retaining Harcourts’ budget and meeting sustainability goals.
HX 2023 Launch and Opening Address
The Star Theatre, Gold Coast
In conjunction with The Star, Encore was tasked with the conference’s launch and opening event.
Briefed to make it memorable and impactful, a fantastic display of stage management, choreography and cohesive teamwork met and surpassed this ask.
With content on huge LED screens, Encore’s team worked around the clock to ensure meticulous content checks were made and amends completed.
The audience were thoroughly immersed in the show. Lighting and sound bringing the theatre to a whole new level, the opening performance became interactive with audience out of their seats and clapping along. The ball was well and truly rolling for a great conference ahead.
Under The Sea, Networking Party
SeaWorld, Gold Coast
For the first time in the conference event’s history, the networking party was being held offsite. Harcourts had chosen to host at SeaWorld, so guests could enjoy the attractions while they mingled before the evening’s main event: world renowned DJ, Hot Dub Time Machine.
The evening’s theme was Under The Sea, guests came dressed to fit while the entire venue was washed in marine blues and greens, soft ripples adding the to the effect.
The event originally briefed to fit 500, was at the last moment extended to accommodate 150 more guests. Drinks and canapes were served surrounded by aquatic hues and a soft sea mist.
Excitement began to rise in the crowd, as screens displaying Harcourts content, operated by Encore, seamlessly transformed into Hot Dub Time Machine’s signature countdown.
Diamond bacs and truss lighting bringing the stage to life, smoke and haze adding to the excitement and finally the countdown clock hit zero.
The lighting desk was operated in real time with no preview of the set list, making the light show unique to this event. Surrounded by pyrotechnics, Hot Dub Time Machine owned the night. The dancefloor, with enhanced sound and lighting, was packed.
The initial goal was to put on a great show, this was surpassed, it was the show of a lifetime.
The HX2023 Gala Awards Night
The Star Ballroom, Gold Coast
The original vision for the event had included a custom curved screen, which ultimately proved unattainable. Encore keeping the vision and sustainability to the fore, presented a multi-LED solution which would provide the same effect but operate inside the briefed guidelines.
Preproduction was the key to this event’s success, Encore’s strong teamwork, planning and precision could be seen throughout. Through careful forward planning, a pre-show run through gave the team the opportunity to make any necessary amends.
Guests entered the ballroom on a regal blue Harcourts runway, emblazoned with Harcourts’ branding. The room was washed with deep blues, the stage with huge screen was flanked by two trusses of Astera LED tubes lit in complementary blues. A DJ with live performer played a warmup set as guests were seated.
The show opened with the Hall of Fame, the biggest awards of the night. The stage lights switching from deep blue hues to bright golds with pyrotechnics erupting as the Hall of Fame entrants assembled on stage.
The show caller and camera director worked in sync to manage the camera operators as they captured each of the further 250 winner’s award presentations. A technical and production partnership demonstrating the depths of professionalism.
Encore’s lighting manager plotted out the show using The Star’s existing set-up alongside Encore’s equipment, operating both systems in tandem during the event.
After the 250th award had been presented, it was time for the DJ to take centre stage and the celebrations to begin. The lighting now in party mode, guests took to the dance floor and ended their evening in style.
Our team in-house at Crown Melbourne had the pleasure of partnering with the incredible minds at Peter Jones Special Events for this year’s ‘Epworth Glam’ themed Epworth Gala Ball for 1200 guests.
Beautifully captured by Andrew Hobbs Photography.
Featuring Ajaye entertainment & Mike Snell