The feeling of excitement and friendship of an in-person event hit me a few weeks ago. I was getting ready for a 25th-anniversary celebration of Collaboraction, a Chicago theatre company for social change through original devised theatre and community engagement, as they hosted their Moonrise Event. The event was hosted at Rockwell on the River, a beautiful event space nestled off the water in the city. As I looked out at the rain a few hours before the event, I was relieved we made a late decision to move the main stage inside, and I smiled as I heard the live band start to soundcheck.
As the event start neared, the room was taking shape with 25 years of Collaboraction history showcased in three installations strategically placed throughout the venue. The event team designed the space to walk attendees through the last 25 years and tell the story of where they have come from. Utilizing various av technology, sponsored by AV Chicago ®, we used uplighting on the brick to create a sense of intimacy and warmth in the huge space. A talented designer turned a 40′ feast table into a magical forest tablescape. The creativity of the host and the talented team of Collaboration members was visible to everyone who attended.
It was a culmination of a pent-up desire for an in-person event, and it didn’t disappoint! During setup, old friends and acquaintances were able to come together, many for the first time in over a year. I was excited for the audience to arrive and start celebrating an inspiring theatre company in an inspiring space.
This organization has worked for over a quarter of a century to bring a diverse community of Chicagoans to create original theatrical and virtual experiences that cultivate dialogue and action around the world’s most critical social issues. In my over 20 years working with this organization, I couldn’t be prouder of the work they have done nor more excited for the opportunities they will continue to create. I can honestly say it was a one-of-a-kind event perfectly set in a one-of-a-kind Chicago venue.
For more information on Collaboraction check out this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2y2j2385IRc
AV Chicago’s techs at Collaboraction
