For the second consecutive year, AV Chicago partnered with The Scion Group, a leader in high-quality student housing, to support their three-day gathering at the Chicago Marriott Downtown. The event featured an awards show, keynote speakers, breakout sessions, and interactive touchpoints designed to entertain and engage attendees. Here’s a deeper dive into the elements that contributed to this stunning event production and a few fun interactive elements we took from idea to execution.
Main Stage
Three large-scale LED walls were constructed for the main stage using 200 tiles of Theatrixx Nomad 2.6mm LED tiles. Controlled by the Aquilon Switching System and the Resolume Media Server, the displays showcased stunning, full-raster video content to elevate the keynote sessions and presentations.
A blend of technology, including Astera Titan Tubes, ETC Halcyon Titanium, Mac Aura XB, and ETC Colorsource Spot V, was used to enhance the lighting of the various sessions, with all elements managed via the GrandMA 3 console.
Over 60 Astera Titan Tubes contributed to creating custom-designed frames along the backline of the main stage. This innovative backdrop mirrored the color effects of the videos projected during the event, fostering an immersive atmosphere that enhanced the visual experience during the presentations.
Let’s Play the Feud!
One of the more unique elements of the event was the request to help them design a Family-Feud style game show, adding a touch of lighthearted competition to the festivities. We supplied them with a game show buzzer system, tabletop gooseneck mics, and scenic pieces that emulated the Family Feud aesthetic. These games helped break up the various sessions, providing attendees with an engaging element they wouldn’t forget.
Breakout Rooms & Additional Signage
Smaller-scale video and audio systems were constructed to support the breakout rooms, creating an intimate setting for more in-depth discussions. By building simplified systems, they became easier to control and met the various sessions’ needs.
We also had the opportunity to utilize our Theatrixx 1.88MM LED totems to support wayfinding throughout the hotel and display the seating chart for the awards dinner, allowing technology to enhance elements traditionally communicated through printed signage.
Setup & Execution
AV Chicago provided a team of about 35 AV professionals to execute and manage various elements over the three days. During load-in, the team conducted a full data load-in and rehearsals before the show, ensuring everything ran smoothly and that The Scion Group had the opportunity to incorporate any additional updates or changes. While much of the event was similar to the previous year, AV Chicago needed to introduce some new event elements, including the custom frames and game show-style setup, which enhanced the overall production value.
One complicated factor was the Astera lighting tube frames, which required custom rigging for proper hanging. Since this was our first year working with this design, we relied on the expertise of our in-house fabricator, who managed the welding and construction of the frames, allowing us to fully realize this idea for The Scion Group.
From immersive lighting to game show-style moments, AV Chicago ensured that every detail contributed to a new and engaging experience for attendees who may return to this event year after year. What might we add next year? You will have to wait and see!
Interested in how AV Chicago can help enhance your next event? Contact us!