Event Production in a Historic Venue
When it comes to event production, one of the key indicators of whether or not an event will be successful is the ambiance of the venue. Different venues present unique opportunities and challenges for event production companies. Historic spaces, with their rich history and timeless architecture, can elevate any occasion. However, the aging infrastructure requires careful planning and execution.
Benefits of a Historic Venue for Event Production
Sight & Sound Productions recently had the opportunity to produce an event at a historic university. The beauty of the architecture and intention behind the art adorning the walls of the ballroom, where the event was held, were breathtaking. By carefully introducing advanced projection, lighting, and sound technology into the space our event producers elevated the audience’s experience, creating a lasting impression.
Historic spaces are highly sought-after venues for event production professionals. These venues offer unparalleled marketing and public relations advantages, with their recognizable architecture instilling a sense of trust and professionalism.
Event Production Challenges of a Historic Venue
Event professionals and technicians in the AV field often have a dynamic relationship with historic spaces. While they appreciate the character and enchantment of a historic venue, they are also aware of its challenges.
Perhaps the biggest challenge of working within a historic space is navigating its rigging capabilities. Sight & Sound Productions ran into a similar situation at our recent event. The team had to navigate narrow hallways and small elevators, which meant smaller loads and more trips back and forth to the truck. Without proper planning, this would have added to the already stressful load element of the production. However, during the initial venue walkthrough, we identified these non-traditional elements and added time to our load-in, leaving us plenty of time to set up before the show.
Another consideration was the weight of our LED wall. Having worked in this space before, our client brought up concerns over the structural integrity of the venue’s flooring. After much discussion and analysis with our client, Sight & Sound Productions opted not to use the LED Wall. Instead, we utilized projection technology to display the intended messaging and graphics for the event.
Historic Venue Event Production Checklist
Producing an event in a historic space is a fantastic opportunity for your event planner and the attendees. Event production companies need to be extremely thorough in the planning phase. Here are a few things to consider when preparing for your next event in a historic space:
- Review power and electrical capabilities
- Take note of doorway and hallway sizes for load-in
- Inspect rigging points
- Brainstorm how AV technology can elevate the space, not take away from it
- Respect the history and beauty of the space that you’re working in
With all these points considered, your event is bound to be a memorable occasion for both your production team and its attendees.
Plan Your Next Event with Sight & Sound
Planning an event in a historic venue? Contact Sight & Sound Productions today to explore how our expertise in AV event production can take your event experience to the next level.