Heroic Productions and the Commencement Trinity

Posted on June 17, 2024June 17, 2024 by McKenna LaFave

The end of May and the start of June is a magical time for students and the team at Heroic Productions alike! We had the honor of bringing our AV production expertise to several commencements. Milestone moments like commencement should be unforgettable, and top-notch AV is essential to making them truly special. This is where Heroic shines—ensuring that every graduate’s loved ones can see, hear, and feel the excitement. Take a look at our work for the College of St. Benedict, Gustavus Adolphus College, and The Blake School commencements.

College of St. Benedict Commencement

First up in May, we journeyed to St. Joseph, MN, for the College of St. Benedict Commencement. Held in the Clemens Field House, this event celebrated 344 undergraduates and 14 master’s and doctorate degrees. Heroic Productions transformed the dark field house into a vibrant celebration space with an extensive lighting package. Our stage wash effectively highlighted the commencement address and each student as they accepted their diplomas. Additionally, we provided processional and banner lighting, adding a touch of elegance to the proceedings. To ensure crystal-clear audio, we deployed a full line array audio package that covered the presenters, the band, and some special songs performed by senior choir members. The result was a truly memorable day for everyone involved.

Gustavus Adolphus College Commencement

At the end of May, Heroic headed to southern Minnesota for the Gustavus Adolphus College Commencement. This exciting event took place outdoors on Hollingworth Field, with 451 graduates seated on the turf in front of a grand stage. Our mission was to ensure that every word from the presenters, every note from the band, and every song from the choir were heard loud and clear throughout the entire football stadium. Utilizing our full line array audio package, we achieved perfect audibility for every speech and song, making the celebration truly unforgettable.

The Blake School Commencement

The beginning of June kept us busy in the Twin Cities for The Blake School Commencement. This multi-day event took place in the historic Blake School Ice Arena, a barrel vault ice rink that posed some fun challenges for our team—but nothing we couldn’t handle! With commencements for the elementary, middle, and senior high schools, we had to make three different celebrations shine. Our comprehensive line array audio package ensured clear sound for every presenter, band performance, and choir song. We used a stage wash for lighting to ensure our presenters looked their best, while processional and banner lighting added a dramatic effect. To enhance the experience, we incorporated video and projection, ensuring the audience didn’t miss a beat. Additionally, we recorded the event to guarantee that no friends or family missed this special day.

Partner with us for your school’s commencement. Contact us today!

Check out our “Work” page to see more of what we can offer your school.

Children’s Cancer Research Fund’s DREAM Gala 2023

Posted on June 4, 2024June 6, 2024 by McKenna LaFave

A long-standing tradition, DREAM, is the Twin Cities’ gala benefiting CCRF. CCRF crafts this annual event with exciting experiences, inspiring stories, and fabulous food, all for a meaningful cause: to end childhood cancer.

MONUMENTAL DAYS HAPPEN BECAUSE OF NIGHTS LIKE THESE

Imagine a day with better answers for childhood brain tumors. A day when cancer doesn’t strike the same fear as it does today. A day when we look back and see all the people, funding, and trials that made significant progress possible.

A day like that will take a night like this – DREAM Gala 2023

This year, the team at CCRF selected Heroic as their trusted production partner. Our collective planning began with the vision in mind: to move and motivate people to give. As staging and audio/visual design experts, we know how we can influence that effort. It begins with designing an immersive experience that surprises and delights the attendees. We applaud the team at CCRF for selecting just the right partners for success. Working alongside our friends at Festivities, we transformed Quincy Hall (already a beautiful venue) into a fitting backdrop for engagement and giving!

CREATING MAGIC WITH CCRF: A NIGHT OF GIVING

As always, Heroic’s main focus is ensuring our clients’ key messages are seen, heard, and felt. We ensured the best visibility for the 400+ seated dinner audience by strategically placing large projection screens throughout the stage and room. The program included awards, touching stories and tributes, and the very important live auction.

After the dinner and program concluded, attendees moved into a secondary area of the venue where they enjoyed a DJ, more activations, and a few late-night bites.

Under the direction and execution of Eric Perkins, Event Host, and Kristine Fladeboe Duininck, Live Auctioneer, we are proud to report the evening raised over $660,000 for childhood brain tumor research.

If you, too, want to get involved, visit CCRF here.

BRING EVENTS TO LIFE WITH HEROIC

To see how we can make your next gala shine, contact us.

Visit our the DREAM Gala page to learn more about our partnership with CCRF.

Heroic Productions and the Gala Trifecta

Posted on May 20, 2024 by McKenna LaFave

Who said April showers only bring May flowers? At Heroic Productions, they bring back-to-back-to-back galas! Spring has been bustling at our headquarters as we dive into one gala after another. For our association and organization clients, galas are more than just glitz and glamor; they’re about making a real impact on important missions. And let’s face it, the success of a fundraiser often boils down to the greenbacks raised.

But here’s the kicker: it’s not just about flashy auctions. At Heroic, we take our AV production game seriously, especially when it comes to partnering with nonprofits. We’re all about ensuring their message resonates loud and clear.

Gala #1: Home for Life

The first weekend in May brought the Heroic team to the Home for Life Animal Sanctuary’s Spring Gala, a distinguished event dedicated to raising crucial funds for the sanctuary in Star Prairie, Wisconsin. This year’s special guest was none other than international actress and model Isabella Rossellini. Held in the breathtaking International Market Square with its multi-story atrium, the gala promised an unforgettable experience. Our mission? To create a captivating atmosphere in a vast space with challenging sight lines. Using cutting-edge technology, we synchronized dynamic lighting effects with gobo projections, amplified sound reinforcement, and high-definition projection to make Isabella’s presence even more impactful. Our team also ingeniously merged colored lighting and gobos to craft elegant design textures, immersing attendees in a truly captivating ambiance.

Gala #2: Children’s Cancer Research Fund

The second weekend in May brought the Heroic team to the Children’s Cancer Research Fund’s DREAM Gala, a cherished Twin Cities tradition. This annual event, benefiting CCRF, is beautifully crafted with exciting experiences, inspiring stories, and fabulous food, all for a meaningful cause: to end childhood cancer. As always, Heroic’s main focus was ensuring our clients’ key messages were seen, heard, and felt. We set the stage and overall room with large projection screens, ensuring the best visibility for the 400+ seated dinner audience at Quincy Hall. The event also featured an after-party with a live band. We equipped Quincy Hall with staging for the program, silhouetted the ceiling in CCRF’s signature purple, highlighted their green with a fun lighting pattern, and up-lit the speaker podium in a glowing pink.

As for the after-party, we created a lively stage for the band to kick off the night in style. We lit the room in a myriad of colors to match the theme. We even up-lit the cocktail tables in glowing pink to keep the energy high.

Gala #3: VocalEssence

The third weekend in May brought us the VocalEssence Celebration of Song Gala! Founded in 1969, VocalEssence is a global choral music powerhouse with deep Minnesotan roots. This gala was hosted at the DoubleTree by Hilton Bloomington-Minneapolis South, and it was all about fun and interaction. Guests enjoyed performances by the VocalEssence Chorus, Ensemble Singers, Singers Of This Age, and more. The program also featured a live auction and fund-a-need presentation with auctioneer Andy Imholte of Fladeboe Advancement. With an audience of 400, Heroic made sure the message was seen, heard, and felt. Using a ripple wall as the backdrop, we painted the stage blue and red and set up two projection screens so every guest had a perfect view. We also lit the ceiling with laser-like effects using LED moving-head fixtures, creating an electric, concert-like atmosphere.

At Heroic Productions, our commitment to excellence shines through in every event we help create. This May, we were honored to support three incredible galas, each with its own unique flavor and purpose. From the heartwarming cause of animal sanctuaries to the life-saving mission of cancer research and the soul-stirring power of choral music, we brought our AV expertise to ensure each message was powerfully conveyed. We’re proud to be part of these meaningful experiences, helping our clients make a real impact in their communities. Here’s to many more successful events and to making every message leave a lasting impact!

To talk about how Heroic can help make your message seen, heard, and felt at your next event, contact us.

To learn more about the work we do with nonprofits, visit our website.

Global Meetings Industry Day: The AV Collaboration Journey

Posted on April 18, 2024April 18, 2024 by McKenna LaFave

If you missed Global Meetings Industry Day presented by Meeting Professionals International (MPI), have no fear, we did the heavy lifting for you! Some of the most asked questions by event planners were answered by experts in the audio/visual production field. Get ready to uncover the secrets to crafting a collaborative journey with your AV partner that will leave you stress-free and your attendees buzzing with excitement!

What Should Be in an RFP? What Should a Planner Ask Up Front?

When drafting your Request for Proposal (RFP), arm yourself with the essentials:

Dates: Lock in those crucial dates to ensure availability.
Venue Info: Provide detailed venue information for seamless integration.
Site Survey: A thorough site survey lays the groundwork for flawless execution.
Production Schedule: A good production schedule keeps everyone on track.
Room Names/Specs: Know your spaces inside out for optimal setup.
Previous Event Images: Visual cues help set the production bar and align expectations.

Explaining Your Needs: Making Quoting Easier

Clear communication is key. Articulate your needs upfront to streamline the quoting process. Don’t shy away from detailing your requirements — it’s the roadmap to success!

Navigating Rising Costs: Feeling the Budget Pinch? Fear Not!

Collaboration is Key:

Start by seeking multiple bids for competitive pricing. Let the AV wizards work their magic by quoting to your specs, but don’t stop there! Engage in a conversation to explore possibilities and fine-tune the details. Remember, the devil is in the specifics, and quotes may evolve based on your discussions.

Tap into Expertise:

Leverage the wealth of experience AV companies bring to the table. They’re not just there to set up equipment — they’re your partners in creating impactful experiences. Trust them to recommend cost-effective alternatives without sacrificing quality.

Seek Trusted Partners:

Reach out to vetted AV partners who understand your vision and budget constraints. They’re not just vendors — they’re collaborators dedicated to bringing your event to life. Together, you can find creative solutions to maximize impact while keeping costs in check. For example, LED is great and super trendy, but projection may be just as impactful for a lot less budget.

Load In/Out Logistics: Timing Is Everything

Show Complexity and Technology

Load in/out timelines are as unique as your event itself. The more intricate the show and the tech involved, the more time it might take to set up and tear down. It’s like a finely choreographed dance where every move counts.

Venue Constraints

Ah, the venue — our beloved partner and occasional timekeeper. Sometimes, they throw us curve balls with strict load in/out windows. Flexibility is key, and sometimes, we’ve got to work around their schedule.

Preparation vs. Reality

While we’d love to prep everything in the warehouse and whisk it into place effortlessly, reality bites. Some things just can’t be prepared beforehand, and that’s okay. We’ll adapt and conquer!

Efficiency vs. Bodies

Here’s the scoop: More bodies don’t always mean faster load in/out. It’s not about quantity—it’s about quality. Each member of the team plays a crucial role, and too many cooks can spoil the broth.

Trust the Pros

Your AV provider knows the drill. Trust them to estimate the time they need for setup and teardown. They’ll make every second count to ensure your event shines bright like a diamond.

Staging: Sooner the Better

Early bird gets the worm, right? Staging equipment as soon as possible gives us a head start and ensures a smoother setup process. Plus, it saves us from duking it out with catering for elevator rights — nobody wants that showdown!

Dedicated Outside AV Providers vs. In-House: The Great Debate

Building client relationships is like building a castle of knowledge for AV providers. In-house focuses solely on that event because chances are, they won’t see those clients again if they move locations. With outside providers, you get experienced folks who’ve seen it all in different markets and travel with you. Plus, there’s the added perk of having the same friendly faces at your events. So, with outside AV providers, you don’t have to reinvent the wheel — it’s more like a joyful ride!

Articulating Your Vision: From Vintage Vibes to Cutting-Edge Cool

Bring your vision to life with references! Pictures and videos speak volumes. Share your inspiration to ignite the creativity of your AV company. Collaboration is key for those out-of-the-box solutions. Just remember, a more advanced setup might come with a higher price tag and longer load in/out times. And hey, sometimes, “vintage” is just what the event calls for, so you don’t have to stray away from good ole projection and pipe and drape!

In Conclusion: Let’s Rock Your AV Experience!

There you have it, folks! Armed with these insider tips and tricks, you’re ready to embark on your A/V adventure with confidence and flair. Whether you’re drafting that RFP like a pro, navigating the budget maze, or orchestrating the perfect load in/out ballet, remember — you’re not alone!

Forge strong partnerships with your A/V wizards, communicate your vision loud and clear, and embrace the journey with open arms. From vintage vibes to cutting-edge cool, your event is poised to dazzle and delight. Here’s to stress-free planning, jaw-dropping productions, and unforgettable experiences. Cheers to your next event being the talk of the town!

See how Heroic Productions can help you unleash your creativity, and let’s make some magic happen together, contact us.

Check out some of our proudest productions to spark your imagination for your next big event, visit our website!

The Future of Event Tech

Posted on January 25, 2024January 25, 2024 by McKenna LaFave

If you’re in the events industry, you know that event technology is the heartbeat of every conversation. But let’s not just have tech in the room; let’s make it dance! Embracing both form and function is the key. Wondering how to infuse that tech magic into your event? Well, the experts have some playful and futuristic ideas for you!

Lit Check-ins: Sparking Event Excitement with LED Welcome Bliss!

Why shouldn’t you shock attendees right from the jump? Try surprising and delighting with an LED check-in table! However, it’s not just for check-ins; turn it into your bar or silent auction showcase. With LED panels there are limitless design possibilities, from colors to flashy designs, you can truly make it your own.

Starlux Arbors and Archways new in event tech

Arching into the Future: LED Arbors Steal the Spotlight!

Archways and arbors are classic, but here’s a twist – LED archways and arbors have just stepped into the spotlight! Perfect for speakers, panelists, and, of course, selfies and step-and-repeats. Light up your event with this new tech, making it a focal point that shines.

See-Through Event Tech Magic: Samsung’s Transparent MicroLED Screen Unveiled!

Transparent LED screens have been around, but Samsung just dropped a bomb – a new transparent microLED screen! Display content on a transparent background up close, creating a 3D, hologram effect. With higher brightness and less impact from ambient light than traditional OLED panels, it’s a game-changer.

#EventGoals: Infusing Social Media Buzz with Interactive Hashtags!

How about making your attendees the stars of the show? Create a catchy event hashtag and display social media content on the screen. Bring up attendees’ videos and images, keeping the energy high and interactions buzzing throughout your event.

Elevate Your View: Trolley Cameras for Capturing Event Awesomeness!

Capture the magic from above! Cameras and GoPros on trolleys overhead your venue are the latest craze. Perfect for marketing and pre-planning, these cameras capture the entire room, giving you a comprehensive view of the entire venue and event!

Event Tech Pro Tip…

Now, here’s a pro tip: while new tech is a blast, make sure you’ve got a solid AV company by your side. Chat with them before you book a venue. They’ll guide you based on your vision and help infuse the right tech to bring that vision to life. Happy event planning!

To help infuse the best tech into your next event, contact us.
To learn more about Heroic’s newest technology offering, visit this blog.

Heroic Productions Spends a Day at Raise + Arrange 2024

Posted on January 23, 2024June 10, 2024 by McKenna LaFave

Picture this: a chilly January 18, and the Heroic Productions squad descended upon Glasshouse in Minneapolis for the stellar Raise + Arrange 2024 event hosted by Do Good Events. Our CEO, Account Manager, and Marketing maestro joined forces with 80 other event enthusiasts for the afternoon, turning a frosty day into an epic experience.

The theme of this event was “Back to the Future of Events.” The venue transformed into a neon dreamland, with vibrant pinks and purples filling the space. The eye catcher? An LED check in desk courtesy of Full Swing Productions! The festivities kicked off with networking, delectable charcuterie from Chowgirls, and Kombucha sampling thanks to J’s Kombucha. Even Minneapolis local Surley Brewing Co. showed up with some swag and giveaways for attendees.

As the clock struck 1:30 p.m. everyone took their seats at round tables to get cozy with other event wizards. Once our table got acquainted with each other, the conference kicked off. In three hours, this event packed in a treasure trove of knowledge.

Raise + Arrange 2024 with Heroic Productions

Build a Million Dollar Fundraising Event

First up was Fundraising: Building a Million Dollar Event. Two members of The University of Minnesota Foundation, Nick Engbloom and Brittany Minke, took the stage to give us their genius tips for building a million dollar fundraising event. From building strong donor relationships to slightly altering ticket prices, these panelists were filled with a myriad of brilliant ideas!

PR/Marketing for Your Next Event

Next in line was PR/Marketing: Tips and Tricks, which included panelist Ben Theis, CEO of Skol Marketing. The hot topic – trying to bridge the data gap between offline and online marketing. The advice? Continue to mix traditional and digital marketing like a blender. Bring both to the table for conversation. Our pro tip takeaway: create/purchase a separate URL or domain for your event attendees. This way you can directly link web traffic to specific events. Genius, right?

Let Tech Bring You Into The Future

Cue drumroll for The Future of Event Tech, Heroic’s sweet spot! Ed Raeker, the brain behind Starlux, a new tech startup, wowed us with LED archways that can transform your event with illuminated geometric designs. Did we mention the LED check-in desk? Impressive stuff!

The New Age of Mobile Bidding

Then, it was time for mobile bidding, brought to you by the day’s sponsors, OneCause and Auction & Event Solutions. They make bidding and collecting donations a breeze, ensuring your fundraising event is smoother than a well-choreographed dance.

“Fundraise Awesomer” with Patrick Kirby

Donors, Sponsors… and Everything Else! Enter Patrick Kirby, Keynote Speaker, Author, and Founder of Do Good Better Consulting. He hit the stage with contagious energy, reminding us that it’s the little things—like engaging your donors—that truly elevate fundraising events to awesomeness.

The Alignment of Past, Present, and Future

Last but certainly not least, the sensational Heather Boll took us on a journey with Learning from the Past, Living for the Present, Planning for the Future. Heather left us with pearls of wisdom and the courage to conquer the year ahead.

The Raise + Arrange 2024 day wrapped up with a networking happy hour, courtesy of the delightful Brasa Rotisserie. As we indulged in Brasa delights, sipped our drinks, and mingled with fellow event enthusiasts, we left with newfound knowledge and friendships. What a day!

To learn more about what’s new in event tech, visit our blog.

To see what Heroic Productions can do for you, contact us.

Another Heroic Production for Gustavus Adolphus College’s 50th Year of Christmas in Christ Chapel

Posted on December 12, 2023December 12, 2023 by McKenna LaFave

Heroic Productions was back in St. Peter, MN for another year of Gustavus Adolphus College’s Christmas in Christ Chapel. “What is Christmas in Christ Chapel?” you ask. Well, it’s Gustavus’s 50 year-old tradition of bringing the community together to joyously celebrate Christmas. Picture this: a large production with singing, dancing, live music, and the spoken word; all brought to you by the incredible performances of Gustavus Choir, Choir of Christ Chapel, Christ Chapel Ringers, Gustavus Symphony Orchestra, Lucia Singers, and select members of the Gustavus Dance Company.

Christmas in Christ Chapel with Heroic Productions

A Heroic Journey Through Time with Christmas in Christ Chapel

Why Heroic you ask? It all started 14 years ago when Heroic was contracted to help enhance the lighting in Christ Chapel using professional-grade instruments to better illuminate the superstars – the choirs, orchestra, and speakers. Fast forward four years, and Heroic decided to go beyond being a rental contractor. We approached the college with an idea to broadcast the show on the college’s web-streaming services. Gustavus’s response? A resounding “Absolutely!” For the past 10 years, we’ve been an integral part of this magical celebration.

Then came 2020 – the year of the unexpected plot twist. Gustavus decided if the community couldn’t be together in person, they still wanted to spread the Christmas cheer. While other colleges either canceled or used previously recorded versions of similar shows, Gustavus knew they still wanted to showcase the production. Heroic was able to come up with a safe set and recorded all the musical magic in October and edited the show together for a magical broadcast to showcase in mid-December. “It was an incredible undertaking and one of the proudest of my career,” Heroic CEO, Jon Young beams.

Christmas in Christ Chapel Today

Today, Christmas in Christ Chapel holds a special place as one of Gustavus’s “signature events.” Heroic is honored to be Santa’s little helper behind this prestigious production. Our roots in music and entertainment make this event close to our hearts.

Christmas in Christ Chapel is not a “made for TV” show. It’s a live worship service, a dynamic experience that we strive to deliver to both in-person and virtual viewers. With 1,000 people seated in the audience and 10,000 viewing from home, Heroic is in charge of finding that perfect balance.

The building is also not designed for our work – it’s a chapel! Working with stringent engineering specs and adding more power to the building has turned us into efficiency experts. We get more efficient every year! Our team of nine camera operators, four audio technicians, two lighting designers, a director, an assistant director, a page turner, video engineers, an executive producer, a technical director, and 20 stagehands expertly get the job done every time!

So, as we close out another year of spreading holiday joy, we invite you to join us next year, whether in person or from the comfort of your cozy couch. Christmas in Christ Chapel is a celebration like no other, and with Heroic Productions at the helm, you’re in for a treat.

To see the work that goes into this production, visit our website.

Ready to elevate your next event? Let’s start a conversation about how Heroic can bring your vision to life, contact us.

Kitty Hart Discusses Brand Experience on Your Business Greatness Podcast

Posted on October 24, 2023October 26, 2023 by McKenna LaFave

Simone Sloan and Kitty Hart bring the magic to Your Business Greatness podcast! In an exciting episode of Your Business Greatness, Kitty Hart, the VP of Client Brand Experience at Heroic Productions, takes us on a journey through the world of brand storytelling and creating remarkable brand experiences.

Kitty’s Lesson in Sales

Kitty’s career began in sales, driven by the belief that it would give her control over her success. But sales today is so much more. It’s about crafting tailored, unforgettable brand experiences for customers.

“The center of experience design is empathy,” Kitty asserts. If empathy isn’t woven into your process, you’re bound to miss the mark.

Brand Experience Lessons from a Starbucks Cup

Kitty artfully illustrates her point with the Starbucks experience. She describes how Starbucks caters to three types of customers from drive-thru enthusiasts to in-store lingerers and on-the-go orderers. These are three distinct user experiences Starbucks must cater to in order to leave a positive lasting impression on all their customers.

Kitty defines an experience as an interaction, which can be positive, neutral, or negative. Identifying key moments that leave an impression is crucial for businesses to understand and improve their customer interactions. Simone adds, “If you are not thinking through that customer journey and all those different touch points you miss the mark big time, and when you miss the mark big time, it hurts.”

Heroic’s Dance with Event Marketing

Kitty emphasizes that Heroic is in the business of event marketing, asking: what do we want people to do and feel when they leave the experience? Whether that is in-person or virtual. During COVID we had to learn how to take our business virtual and give attendees the same feeling they would get from an in-person experience.

Diversity and Inclusion in Events and at Heroic

Regarding diversity and inclusion, Kitty mentions that when bidding on large projects that go through procurement, they are increasingly asked questions about their diversity, equity, and inclusion mission.

At Heroic, we’ve fostered a culture of unity and mutual respect. Every member of our team is seen and celebrated for the unique role they play, regardless of their background. As a small company that doesn’t frequently hire, we approach each recruitment with a commitment to diversity. Our goal is to place the right individuals in the right positions, based on their skills, passion, and potential.

The Art of Storytelling and Electrifying Experiences

Simone Sloan and Kitty Hart delve into the nuances of brand storytelling and the art of crafting electrifying experiences for businesses. Kitty recounts an exhilarating project with a major fashion-focused beauty brand. Working along with the brand’s guidelines, she discusses how it was a fun experience getting to work with the client and define what the event was going to look like. The Heroic team helped to transform the space into a vibrant runway show with pulsating music and flowing hair. The energy was electric, and it perfectly embodied the brand’s essence.This endeavor required an abundance of talent and vision, ultimately turning a space into an enchanting environment.

Kitty Leaves with a Parting Thought

As we wrap up this engaging podcast conversation, Kitty leaves us with a powerful reminder on the topic of ageism. It’s a perception that often casts a shadow over accomplished women in their 40s, 50s, and 60s. But in reality, these decades are when women are at the pinnacle of their careers. They bring a wealth of experience and wisdom to the table, making them invaluable assets to any organization.

The most successful organizations recognize the significance of a diverse workforce spanning generations, from the energetic innovators in their 20s to the seasoned professionals in their 60s. “Generational experiences matter,” Simone aptly points out. It’s the blending of these diverse life experiences that often leads to the most extraordinary and innovative outcomes.

So, let’s remember that every age and stage of life is an opportunity for growth, contribution, and excellence. We hope this podcast leaves you ready to embark on your own journey of business greatness.

To learn more about our VP of Brand Experience, Kitty Hart, visit our website.To learn more about how Heroic can help you with your next event, contact us.

Heroic Productions Delivers Audiovisual to Gustavus Adolphus College’s Nobel Conference

Posted on October 20, 2023October 23, 2023 by McKenna LaFave

On Tuesday, October 3, 2023, Heroic Productions had the sheer joy of bringing Gustavus Adolphus College’s annual Nobel Conference to life! Since 1965, the Nobel Conference has been a captivating platform, gathering leading researchers and thinkers at Gustavus to delve into groundbreaking, transformative, and urgent scientific matters, as well as the ethical questions that invariably accompany them. Over the years, many Nobel Laureates have been guest lecturers. Heroic has had the privilege of being the creative audiovisual force behind this conference for the past decade!

The Nobel Conference at Gustavus Adolphus College using Heroic Audiovisual

This year’s theme? “Insects: Little Body, Big Impact.” Our team was buzzing with anticipation as we embraced the responsibility of orchestrating the audiovisual experience, ensuring the magic unfolded right before your very eyes.

An Audiovisual Transformation

The metamorphosis occurs annually at Gustavus’s hockey arena, Lund Arena. With a fresh theme each year, our mission is to transform this space from an arena into a dynamic conference center. What makes it all the more thrilling is that this event is hybrid. This means we must craft an engaging atmosphere for both those in the room and those tuning in from the comfort of their homes via the livestream. And did we mention that this event spans two full 8 hour days?

Setting the Stage

Our incredible audiovisual crew waved their magic wands and turned an ordinary room into a captivating experience for both our in-person and online audience. We kicked things off by setting up not one, not two, but four gigantic projection screens that brought content and live footage to life. Behind the speakers and panelists, we utilized five LED towers for background. This created the perfect stage for them to shine. To make sure every angle was covered for our livestream audience, our crew decided on four cameras, ensuring that no moment was missed!

Our lighting guru, Bex, bathed the walls in exquisite shades of green and blue, mirroring the signature colors of the conference’s featured insect, the scarab beetle. Three hundred feet of Truss was installed to handle the lighting and video.

Now, let’s talk sound. Our audio maestros were in their element, ensuring that live music, speakers, and panelists seamlessly took center stage all day long. Coordinating this auditory extravaganza was no small feat. However, they nailed it, making sure that everyone’s voice was heard exactly when it needed to be.

Lights! Camera! Action!

The event unfolded flawlessly. The presenters were exceptional, and the music was nothing short of divine. Gustavus even featured a new jazz work with dancers to lead the opening academic procession! We’re already counting down the days until the next Nobel Conference next year.

To learn more about our work, visit our website.

To see how we can help you transform your next event, contact us.

7 Inspiring Stage Set Design Ideas for Your Next Conference

Posted on October 23, 2019June 5, 2024 by andrew

Even the most experienced conference event planner can sometimes feel stuck when it comes to set stage design ideas that will WOW your audience. It’s important to create something that will impress, but not detract, all while fitting into the venue, supporting your event goals, and staying within your budget.

Conference stage design makes the first impression for all of your attendees. It’s important not to settle into the same old, same old ideas that have been seen at conferences before.

Sometimes, all we need is a little inspiration. So, here are some of the Heroic team’s favorite set stage design ideas that we think will get those creative juices flowing.

Continue reading “7 Inspiring Stage Set Design Ideas for Your Next Conference”

Using Projector Throw Ratio to Determine Audience Placement Relative to Screen

Posted on September 26, 2019March 31, 2022 by andrew

Ah, the screen. It’s a fundamental element in so many different types of events. It must be large enough and positioned properly for everyone to see projected images clearly, even from the back row. Yet it shouldn’t be so big it dwarfs other stage elements or looms over the audience members down in front. But the screen doesn’t work by itself, it has a companion element – the projector. So where should that go? It’s actually all about math.

Continue reading “Using Projector Throw Ratio to Determine Audience Placement Relative to Screen”

Augsburg University Scholarship Weekend With Steve Wozniak

Posted on August 20, 2019March 7, 2022 by andrew

Augsburg University

Augsburg University (Minneapolis, Minnesota) hosted their annual Scholarship Weekend with a kickoff event featuring a keynote conversation with Steve Wozniak. Heroic was there to transform their large gymnasium into a visually interesting and easy-to-see-and-hear venue for a full house of attendees. We used a wall of gray drape (gray takes lighting much better than black), plenty of lights, large iMag screens and a couple of well-placed Meyer Sound line-array speaker systems. Take a look at the video!

A look back: Super Bowl LIVE 2018

Posted on June 2, 2019March 7, 2022 by andrew

Nicollet Mall in downtown Minneapolis

It was one winter ago that the Heroic crew was braving the Minnesota elements in support of Super Bowl LIVE 2018, on 6 blocks of Nicollet Mall in downtown Minneapolis. As one of only two local vendors chosen to handle production for this huge event, we were proud to provide dynamic lighting throughout the entire site, on top of the IDS Center, and on the Verizon UP Stage, where local and national entertainment performed every evening of the 10-day run, regardless of weather conditions. Acts included Idina Menzel, Sheila E, Morris Day & the Time, Prince’s band – The Revolution, Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis, The Jets, Ispo Facto, Vocal Essence, The Jayhawks, Dessa and many more.

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LIVE-STREAMING Christmas in Christ Chapel at Gustavus

Posted on June 2, 2019March 7, 2022 by andrew

Gustavus Adolphus College

Heroic Productions was back again at Gustavus Adolphus College in St. Peter, MN supporting their 2018 production of Christmas In Christ Chapel. This annual event has been a campus and community tradition since 1973, with Heroic’s involvement having grown from simple lighting support to the current multi-camera live web broadcast and recording for broadcast on national Public TV stations. The five sold-out performances feature the talents of more than 300 students, faculty and staff, with music, dance, spoken word and the visual arts bringing this performance to life. The AV needs have evolved to require massive amounts of colorful dynamic lighting, multiple wireless microphones for soloists, and 8 video cameras for the web live stream.

In addition to a 2019 Telly Award, Heroic has also garnered a Hermes Creative Award 3 years in the running, for its production of the live stream broadcast.

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Home For Life Gala With Guest Jane Goodall

Posted on June 2, 2019March 7, 2022 by andrew

International Market Square, Minneapolis

Recently, Heroic was honored to work with “Home For Life,” providing lights (incredible gobo effects!), sound reinforcement and HD projection for their Spring Gala fundraising event at International Market Square in Minneapolis. Famed researcher Jane Goodall was guest speaker at the event and raised much-needed funds for the Star Prairie, Wisconsin animal sanctuary “for cats and dogs who have been unable to find adoptive homes.”

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Delta Airlines’ B747 Farewell Tour

Posted on June 2, 2019March 7, 2022 by andrew

Detroit / Seattle / Atlanta / Minneapolis

Logistics. Planning. And more planning. That’s what it took to pull off this before-Christmas whirlwind-around-the-country, 4 cities (Detroit / Seattle / Atlanta / Minneapolis) in 4-days farewell tour for Delta’s B747-400 airplanes. We supported BI Worldwide by providing the lights, audio and video/projection (notice the large projection screen in the shape of a tail fin!) for the hangar parties. How did we do it? It took two crews and two sets of gear, leap-frogging one another across the country, to pull it off. Some of our crew even had the exciting privilege of riding on the final leg of the tour! It was an honor to be a part of this historic event.

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X Games Party – Maxim & Indian Motorcycles

Posted on June 2, 2019March 7, 2022 by andrew

Aria, Minneapolis

Maxim Magazine and Indian Motorcycles threw an exclusive “by invitation only” party at Aria during a recent edition of the X Games here in Minneapolis, and Heroic was there with over-the-top lighting and audio. We’ve put together a fun, time-lapse video of the set up and included images of some of the incredible motorcycles that were also on display at the party. What a night!

Heroic Supports Nobel Conference 54

Posted on June 2, 2019March 7, 2022 by andrew

Heroic Productions returned to Gustavus Adolphus College in St. Peter, MN for Nobel Conference 54. For this annual prestigious event, the Lund Arena ice rink is transformed into a lecture setting for several thousand attendees, and it’s our job to help make sure the message is seen, heard and remembered by all in attendance. We do that with fabulous scenic, crisp audio and video, and creative lighting. A rock-solid video feed is provided for a live web-stream (also recorded for viewing on YouTube) of all the presenters so that people unable to attend have front-row seats for the lectures.

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2019 MN ILEA Star Awards

Posted on May 27, 2019March 7, 2022 by andrew

2019 MN ILEA Star Awards

The 15th annual MN ILEA Star Awards highlighted the incredible work of this year’s Star Award nominees and showcased the best and brightest in MInnesota’s event world. 2019’s reception/awards and after-party were held at the Renaissance Minneapolis Hotel – The Depot.

As a Platinum Production Sponsor, our intent was to deliver an “over-the-top” AV experience, and everyone at Heroic jumped in to make that happen. With thematic, mood-setting lighting, dynamic LED scenic banners, an LED wall, and an LED podium (all from our ContentCanvas™ family), and crisp-clean audio, attendee response indicated mission accomplished!

For us, the highlight of the evening was being presented with an ILEA Star Award for “Best Technical Production” for our work at 2018 Super Bowl LIVE on Nicollet Mall in Minneapolis. (All awards were judged by independent ILEA chapters from outside Minnesota.) Congratulations to everyone involved in the planning and execution of Star Awards. It was truly an awesome event for all that attended!

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