Our Work

For the fourth time, Empire was honored to partner with Lincoln Center for their annual Fashion at Lincoln Center Gala, taking place at Alice Tully Hall. This year’s gala was An Evening with Louis Vuitton, honoring the brand’s Artistic Director of Women’s Collections, Nicolas Ghesquiere.

On-stage remarks were made by Steve Swartz, Glenda Bailey, Jennifer Connelly, Paul Bettany, and Nicolas Ghesquiere himself. Guests in attendance included Nicole Kidman, Jayden Smith, Michelle Williams, and Sophia Turner, among many others.

The event featured a headline performance by French singer-songwriter and visionary, Woodkid, performing five songs including his track ‘OTTO’ that was specially composed for Louis Vuitton’s Paris fashion show and Nicolas Ghesquiere. With the support of a hand-picked 38-piece orchestra, custom-made set design and a surprise guest appearance by iconic French actress Catherine Deneuve, Woodkid and the accompanying ensemble received a standing ovation from the exuberant crowd after delivering one of the most unique performances to ever grace the Alice Tully Hall stage.

Following the stage program and performance, guests were invited into the Hall lobby for dinner, where the elegant table settings were surrounded by a multi-media installation featuring various Louis Vuitton content curated specially for the event.

Empire was responsible for all stage program and performance production, curating the orchestra, facilitating off-site musical rehearsals, set-design, technical production, lighting design, and the lobby installation, among other elements.

Empire is a leading producer of high-end events for luxury and fashion brands and is proud to partner with Louis Vuitton, Lincoln Center, and Woodkid on this highly successful event.

Microsoft hosted their three-day in-person and online developer event, Connect();, at Spring Studios in New York City.

Led by Microsoft Cloud and Enterprise Group EVP Scott Guthrie, Connect(); is a key communications event for the Microsoft developer community and functions as an annual platform for announcements and demo’s in Cloud, DevOps, Mobile, Data, and AI. At Microsoft Connect(); developers are introduced to important new tools and services that enable them to build the apps and software programs of the future that will have a positive effect on people’s lives. Spring Studios once again served as the ideal setting for an event dedicated to impact, innovation, and openness.

To balance the Keynote room’s sun-filled space with the need to beautifully illustrate data-driven content, three large-scale, high-resolution LED screens were custom-built to fit within the existing window frames. An additional series of transparent columns were lit from within and created two “walls” on each side of the room, masking the extensive back of house space required to support the technical program in the open plan space while visually supporting Microsoft’s themes of open-ness, flexibility, and transparency. The same visual aesthetic was extended into every aspect of the event and incorporated radiating graphics and HUD interface elements, communicating that “information is everywhere.”

Guests received their first taste of technological innovation at registration, where they were welcomed by name on a reactive LED screen installation covering the full width of the entry wall. A large lunch café was created with a décor scheme that incorporated custom-built, ceiling-high steel LED frames draped with foliage to create smaller, intimate restaurant-style spaces that displayed both technology and nature.

A series of breakout sessions presented content targeted to attendees’ varied interests, while imagery displayed throughout the venue showcased real-life applications of how products designed to empower developers help to unleash the power of data and reimagine possibilities that will improve our world.

Every element of Microsoft Connect(); from registration, breakfast and keynote, to lunch and evening cocktails, were custom-designed to communicate exacting brand messaging and to deliver a high-touch guest experience to this important audience. The keynote and breakout sessions were livestreamed through an onsite studio built for this purpose and content was watched online by millions around the world.

Empire is proud to collaborate with Microsoft on this annual, top-tier business communication event.

To view excerpts of Connect(); 2017, please visit https://www.microsoft.com/connectevent

The Brady Center / Campaign to prevent Gun Violence works tirelessly to shape strategic policies and conduct public health campaigns in an effort to prevent the over 33,000 annual gun deaths in America. Empire was proud to join with Brady to produce their critical New York City Gala to increase the resources dedicated to their public health and safety awareness campaigns.

Together with Brady, Empire worked to secure one of New York City’s newest and oldest venues – the recently-opened Ziegfeld Ballroom where the Ziegfeld Theater once stood. The event kicked off seamlessly when registration partner 501 Auctions quickly checked in guests and registered bidders for the auction. Once inside, donors and supporters enjoyed a cocktail reception featuring a silver and grey color scheme to reflect the building’s art deco heritage. Once seated for dinner, guests were presented an informative and emotional stage program. The program began with a high-energy performance by the Gospel Choir of Harlem, a moving victim testimonial, and a live auction pledge experience led by auctioneer Charles Antin. As the evening progressed, guests were inspired by an unforgettable speech delivered by New Jersey Senator Cory Booker, a longtime supporter of gun violence prevention legislation whose first-hand knowledge of the gun violence epidemic in his home city of Newark brought the audience to tears. Advertising visionary David Droga was honored for Droga5’s partnership to develop an advertising and social norms campaign that speaks to gun owners, without any judgment, about the dangers of guns in their homes.

The evening concluded with a heartfelt and upbeat performance by founding member of the Goo Goo Dolls, Johnny Rzeznik, who is also committed to this cause. Empire proudly supports the important work of The Brady Center in its effort to end the senseless epidemic of gun violence in America. To learn more about the Brady Campaign and support their mission, please visit https://www.bradycampaign.org/bradycenter. With your help, we can say #ENOUGH to gun violence.

The Brooklyn Navy Yard’s Building 77 is a 1,000,000 square foot, state-of-the-art industrial / manufacturing, tech and design hub and the largest building on the 300-acre campus. Located at the corner of Vanderbilt and Flushing Avenues at the Brooklyn Navy Yard, Building 77 is projected to add 3,000 jobs and will expand employment at the Navy Yard by more than 40%. The 16-story Building 77 includes a 60,000 square foot ground floor public food manufacturing hub, which will serve as a public gateway to the Yard, and the central gathering point for Yard businesses, employees, and their guests. New York institution Russ & Daughters recently signed on to be a ground floor anchor tenant and other food production businesses will lease smaller spaces throughout the ground floor to enhance and complement the food and beverage offerings.

Based on its past work at the Brooklyn Navy Yard, Empire was engaged to produce the grand opening in a two part event: a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony with the Mayor of New York City, Bill de Blasio, and later that evening, a celebration with activations that included tenants from Building 77 and the rest of the Brooklyn Navy Yard. Empire worked closely with the Brooklyn Navy Yard’s External Affairs team to curate activations that highlighted not only the diversity of the tenants, but also their tremendous contributions to education, engineering, technology, fashion, art, and rehabilitation. During the press conference and ribbon-cutting, invited guests dined on delicious bites prepared by tenants including Rustic Tavern, We Rub You, Food Sermon, Pizza Yard, Jalapa Jar, Grandchamps, Brooklyn Greenery, Russ & Daughters, and the Brooklyn Roasting Company.

Speakers included New York City Mayor, Bill de Blasio, Brooklyn Navy Yard Board Chair, Henry Gutman, Brooklyn Navy Yard President and CEO, David Ehrenberg, and others. The evening event was a Brooklyn Navy Yard-wide block party held inside Building 77’s cavernous ground floor. The party was a true celebration of the diverse community of Brooklyn Navy Yard’s people, businesses, artists, designers, innovators, creatives, and technologists.

Those in attendance and activating within the event included:

ARTISTS: Nadia Beladia, Steph Mantis Designs, Susan Woods, Jacqueline Meier, Dieu Donne, Clay Industries

FASHION/GARMENT: Hip Hop Closet, Akiko et Atsuyo, Lafayette 148

TECH/INTERACTIVE: 10x Beta (New Lab Company), December Box, Refoundry (Interactive Hand Print Project), OgoSport, A Heirloom, Abby Lichtman (Portrait Demonstrations and Painting Demonstrations), Bridge Cleaners (Hand Sewing Demonstrations), New Lab, RockPaperRobot (New Lab Company), Nova Concepts (VR Experience), HITN (Hispanic Information and Telcom Network with Live Mock Broadcast), SITU Studio, Ecologic Solutions, Ferrara Design, Care Of, Turnstile Tours, Consortium for Research & Robotics (Demonstrated a Robot),

FURNITURE: Bien Hecho, Scott Jordan, Asher Israelow, Lost & Found Props, Patina (Provided all Furniture for Tenant Exhibits)

TRAVEL & TOURISM: Caribbean American Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Turnstyle Tours.

MUSIC: NORTON Records (Played 1950s & 1960s Rock & Roll).

SIGNAGE & PRINTING: Duggal Visual Solutions

In addition to providing overall event design and management, staffing, technical production, permitting, and planning, Empire coordinated all food and beverages, custom activations and exhibitions representing over 50 tenants from the Brooklyn Navy Yard and Building 77.

Guest took home a Brooklyn Navy Yard Tote Gift Bag that included a custom, handmade sketch of Building 77 by Abby Lichtman, Coffee by Brooklyn Roasting Company, and a Brooklyn Navy Yard water bottle and mug.

Empire is honored to have produced this milestone event in this historic and once-again vibrant location.

To learn more about the Brooklyn Navy Yard and Building 77, visit https://brooklynnavyyard.org/leasing/bldg-77/

Empire was honored to serve as the producers of the star-studded, 16th annual Samsung Annual Charity Gala, which took place at Skylight Clarkson Sq in New York City. The annual charity gala is Samsung’s principal cause-marketing event dedicated to supporting a variety of charitable organizations focused on children’s health, education, and sustainability.

For the first time in the gala’s history, the event took place in a completely raw venue, which was transformed to allow guests to experience different environments throughout the evening.

Guests arrived and were met with a giant neon welcome sign and entered through a heart-shaped neon tunnel. At the cocktail reception they were treated to music courtesy of 10-year-old prodigy, DJ Livia, and live art by Shantell Martin on a gigantic mural wall. As guests enjoyed interactive catering displays, they explored various installations including LED light chandeliers, monumental walls of real flowers, kinetic glitter bars, and a large LED digital silent auction display.

Celebrity attendees including Goldie Hawn, Nicky Hilton, Camila Alves, Victor Cruz, Rita Ora, and Rob and Marisol Thomas. The red carpet also featured a non-traditional step & repeat, with the benefiting charity logos represented on the wall.

Following cocktails, guests made their way through a gold shimmery tunnel, featuring tube lights, and a mirrored wall at the end displaying the #SamsungGives hashtag before they turned into the dining hall.

As they stepped through the doors, guests were amazed to see two 55’ walls covered in real roses, along with two walls showing almost 300’ of animated digital projection content, which took them on a visual journey throughout the evening. Stage programming included remarks by Victor Cruz, Camila Alves, Deputy Head of Samsung North America, YH Eom, President and CEO of Samsung North America, Tim Baxter, and Goldie Hawn, along with speakers from several of the charities and a live auction and appeal led by Lucas Hunt. In addition, guests were treated to live performances by Jon Bon Jovi and Hunter Hayes.

After dinner, guests were ushered into the evening’s final environment, a mirrored and digital wonderland, for desserts and a concert by DJ Kronik and Flo Rida, who had guests dancing until the end of the night.

The Samsung Gala raised an all-time record of more than $3 million for its Charity Partners, who included Big Dreams For Kids; The Boomer Esiason Foundation; Boys and Girls Clubs of America; The Brees Dream Foundation; Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation; Comfort Zone Camp; CMA Foundation; GLSEN; Habitat for Humanity; The Hawn Foundation; Henrik Lundqvist Foundation; Jon Bon Jovi Soul Foundation; Just Keep Livin Foundation; LOLLIPOP; Mark Messier Foundation; Sidewalk; Angels Foundation; Tackle Kids Cancer; Turn 2 Foundation; and the Victor Cruz Foundation.

Empire was proud to work closely with the Samsung team to design and deliver a flawless and memorable evening benefiting these worthy causes. For more information, please visit Samsung.com.

The Coalition for the Homeless hosted the 23^rd annual ARTWALK NY bringing together more than 700 art lovers, celebrities, artists, collectors, and Coalition supporters at Spring Studios for a night filled with over 100 pieces of contemporary art in a silent and live auction.

The Coalition for the Homeless has been developing and implementing cost-effective strategies to end mass homelessness in New York City for close to four decades. The Coalition works tirelessly to alleviate the suffering of more than 3,500 men, women, and children each day by providing emergency food and clothing, housing, crisis services, job training, and programs for homeless youth.

Empire was proud to serve as overall producer for ARTWALK NY for the eighth consecutive year. The evening was generously presented by Italian fashion house Max Mara. This year, artist Louise Fishman was honored for her contribution to contemporary art, and Vincent and Shelly Fremont were honored for their continued philanthropic support of the Coalition throughout the years. Debbie Harry presented the Philanthropic Honoree award to the Fremonts.

Aileen Agopian auctioned off a spectacular selection of art pieces courtesy of some of the world’s most renowned artists, including Andy Warhol, Chuck Close, Alex Katz, Ed Ruscha, and the night’s honoree, Louise Fishman.

The evening began with hors d’oeuvres by Spring Place and cocktails graciously provided by VDKA 6100, Brooklyn Brewery, Bird in Hand Winery, and Ilegal Mezcal. Tasting stations were provided by a selection of New York City’s best restaurants, including ACME, Celestine, Il Buco, Mission Chinese, The Odeon, Dizengoff, Fairfax, Houseman, Samesa, and Wildair. Mah-Ze-Dahr Bakery offered mini pastries and Morgenstern’s Finest Ice Cream offered several of their delectable unique flavors as well as an affogato in collaboration with Counter Culture, which served espressos and lattes.

Throughout the night, guests bid on and purchased works from established and emerging artists while listening to upbeat tunes spun by DJ Mia Moretti and DJElle Dee.

Working closely with the Coalition for the Homeless’ events team and title sponsor Max Mara, Empire served as executive producer of the event and was responsible for event design, production and logistic, décor and restaurant coordination.

To learn more about the Coalition for the Homeless or to get involved and donate, visit http://www.coalitionforthehomeless.org/​

​Empire partnered with Endeavor.org to celebrate their success over the past 20 years leading the high-impact entrepreneurship movement. The gala highlighted Endeavor’s powerful global network of game-changing entrepreneurs and international industry leaders from 30 markets for over 600 attendees.

The evening kicked off at Spring Studios with a cocktail reception overlooking the heart of New York City's trendy TriBeCa neighborhood. Guests enjoyed hors d'ouevres and cocktails provided by Pinch Food design while they circulated among exhibits showcasing some of the entrepreneurial ventures their work has facilitated.

Following cocktails, all guests were invited to a seated dinner in the massive, minimalist Studio 3/4. The dinner program included remarks by Board chair, Edgar Bronfman, Jr., and CEO of General Atlantic, William E. Ford, who was honored as an exemplary supporter of high-impact entrepreneurs worldwide. At the conclusion of dinner, guests were treated to a performance by Warner Music artist, NIIA, an American singer, pianist, and songwriter.

Following the dinner program, guests enjoyed an afterparty at Endeavor's Scale Up night in the cocktail space now transformed into a nightclub, featuring DJ Hannah Bronfman.

Empire collaborated with the Endeavor team to plan and execute a carefully-orchestrated event, for which every aspect of the design showcased the organization's mission and success stories. Designs included Empire custom exhibits, a timeline wall, furniture fabrications and custom installations that visually represented various Entrepreneurs' inventions and business models.

Empire is proud to support an organization that has transformed local economies through innovation, job creation, and mentorship. Endeavor works with over 1,500 entrepreneurs who have created nearly 700,000 jobs across 30 growth markets since founding in 1997. Empire continues to be a leading producer of innovative not-for-profit galas.

To learn more about Endeavor, please visit https://endeavor.org/.

When it comes to recognizing a feat as enormous as Harper’s BAZAAR’s 150 years in the United States, one celebration simply is not enough. Early this year, Harper’s BAZAAR celebrated its 150th Anniversary, “BAZAAR ICONS BY CARINE ROITFELD”, in New York City, and to continue this celebration with the help of Empire Japan, the 150th Anniversary celebration Tokyo Edition was held.

Held at the exceptional Joel Robuchon restaurant in Ebisu, top celebrities walked the black carpet while the Harper’s BAZAAR logo was beautifully displayed on the face of the building. Following the arrivals and to officially start the celebration was a toast by the BAZAAR ICONS organizer, the fashion world`s very own Carine Roitfeld. The highlight of the evening was a special performance from world-acclaimed musician MIYAVI.

Empire was honored to be involved in the successful planning and casting of this celebration, once again proving its expertise in producing high-profile events around the world.​

Official Photos by Tsukasa Nakagawa & Yuji Nakama

On Halloween eve, Empire produced the Lowline Anti-Gala for the 5th consecutive year. The annual fundraiser plays a crucial role in the organization’s plan to convert an underground trolley terminal into the world’s first solar-powered subterranean park on Manhattan’s Lower East Side. This year, the welcomed guests to the historical Stanford White-designed Capitale near the Lowline site for a Forces of Nature-themed costume party.

Guests were welcomed into a vibrant cocktail reception referencing strong undertones of the elements of water and air. Dinner was served in the grand ballroom, in which over 20 live trees, which had been graciously donated by John Mini, created an ambiance for a moonlit dinner in a forest to symbolize the earth.

The dinner program was hosted by Dan Barasch, Co-Founder and Executive Director of the Lowline, and board member Marquise Stillwell. The program honored longtime Lower East Side resident and famed actor, Alan Cumming. Dressed as Spiderman, Alan gave gracious remarks about the Lowline’s development and his experience living in New York City. Marquise and Dan also honored Veronica Vasquez, a member of the Lowline Young Ambassadors Program.

After dinner, Marquise, Dan, and Alan led the pledge drive to a festive Monster Mash. Energy in the room was high as guests raised over $20,000 for The Lowline in addition to $250,000 in sponsorships and table sales, taking the project one step closer to the goal of opening by 2021.

DJ Lina provided music for the party that kept guests on the dance floor in the fiery-themed afterparty. New York City’s famed fire performer, Flambeaux, and his fire dancers lit the room with excitement and awe as costumed guests danced into the late hours of the night.

Empire has been honored to serve as Lowline’s event producers since 2013 and are proud to support the creation of the world’s first cutting-edge underground park.

To learn more about the Lowline, visit thelowline.org

Empire recently worked with Barclays Center to produce the venue’s first-ever Barclays Center Cares Gala: Shining a Light on Brooklyn.

Held at The Liberty Warehouse in Red Hook on the shores of New York Harbor in Brooklyn, the event celebrated the venue’s charity arm and five years of partnership with the Brooklyn community since Barclays Center opened its doors.

The evening included red carpet arrivals, a cocktail hour and silent auction, a seated dinner and an afterparty. The gala was hosted by FOX’s Rosanna Scotto and featured performances by Grammy Award-nominated classic soul artist Leon Bridges and DJ Chromeo.

Barclays Center CEO, Brett Yormark, recognized many Brooklyn community icons including Sustainability Award honoree, Scot Medbury, President of Brooklyn Botanic Garden, Culinary Leader Award honorees, Levy CEO Andy Lansing, and Alan Rosen, owner of Junior’s. Community Champion Award honorees included Rondae Hollis-Jefferson of the Brooklyn Nets, and Anders Lee of the New York Islanders.

Proud Brooklyn native, actress Rosie Perez, presented the final Community Champions award to professional boxers Daniel Jacobs and Heather Hardy, and Bruce Silverglade, Owner and President of Gleason’s Gym.

The final award of the night, The Vanguard Award, went to Scooter Braun, best known for managing Justin Bieber and Ariana Grande.

The evening ended with an afterparty and dessert reception featuring a dance set by electro-funk duo Chromeo.

Empire was proud to be selected by Barclays Center to support their work in the Brooklyn Community. To learn more about Barclays Center Cares, visit http://www.barclayscenter.com/bccares

Presenting Japan’s top CEOs, Forbes Japan announced their third annual CEO Ranking. This year's CEO Conference, the award ceremony for the winners, was held October 10th at the Palace Hotel Tokyo.

For this year's conference, special panel sessions were held in addition to the award ceremony and winners’ remarks.

Empire Japan was responsible for overall event planning, production, coordination, and management. In addition, Empire also produced an interview video of Dr. Gill Pratt of the Toyota Research Institute.

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Once again, Empire's Tokyo office had the opportunity to produce the leading Japanese IT event for the fifth year in a row. Salesforce.com continues to bring together the brightest businesses and technology leaders who are focused on expanding in the cloud-based and mobile computing realms. This exciting event gathers leaders from around Japan to Tokyo for two full days of sessions, expos, and events.

Salesforce.com this year hosted over 8,200 attendees over the course of two days at the Prince Park Tower and Tokyo Prince Hotel in Tokyo.

This year’s keynote speakers included Keith Block (President and COO Salesforce), Shinichi Koide (Chairman, President and CEO Salesforce Japan), Akito Mizuno (President Mizuno Corporation), Tsutomu Isobe (President Amada Holdings Co. Ltd.), Haruki Mukai (Cabinet Secretariat Councilor), with a special performance by Japan’s famous singer, Crystal Kay. This year the Fortune CEO Series was held to highlight experts from various fields, bringing many exciting speakers to the stage. The Fortune CEO Trailblazer Panel kicked off the first day’s activities, followed by a keynote in the afternoon with a Fortune CEO Fireside Chat.

This year’s exhibition hall also highlighted the growth of Salesforce with an increase to over 80 companies, significantly more than last year. The Tokyo Prince Hotel, located next to the Prince Park Tower, was rebranded the Trailblazer Zone and was the main hub for developer experts and a wide range of technology sessions.

Empire’s Tokyo-based Asia division was responsible for all event design, production and management, including technical production, and coordination.

Empire is a leading producer of global conferences and events in the Asian region and serves as the partner of choice for some of the world’s most sophisticated technology companies to produce their premier business events.

UN Women hosted their third annual HeForShe event, a global solidarity movement in support of women’s rights and full equality between women and men.

The HeForShe 10x10x10 Gender Parity Report took place at the beautiful Cipriani 42nd St. and brought together Heads of State, CEO’s of global corporations, and leaders of the world’s top universities to review the impact the #HeForShe campaign has made in each of these sectors internationally for the gender equality.

Empire acted as the overall event producer handling the audio, video, staging, scenic aspects, and stage management of the program.

Hosted by Under-Secretary-General of the UN and the Executive Director of UN Women Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, and MC’ed by Senior Advisor to the Under-Secretary-General and Executive Director of UN Women Elizabeth Nyamayaro, the event featured each of the IMPACT and Thematic Champion’s strategies for effective change.

A highlight of the morning was His Excellency Peter Mathurika, President of Malawi’s moving speech and accompanying video of his nation’s work to end early childhood marriages. Other notable speakers included the CEO of Barclay’s, Jes Staley, Chairman of Price Waterhouse, Cooper Bob Mortiz, His Excellency Sauli Niinstö, President of Finland, His Excellency Shinzo Abe, Prime Minister of Japan, CEO of Vodafone, Vittorio Colao, and John J. DeGioia, President of Georgetown University.

The event served not only as a reflection of the progress made, but pointed to the future of the initiative as six new champions were named to move the cause of gender equality forward in each of their specific sectors.

Some of the new champions include Andrew Wilson, CEO of Electronic Arts, Bruce Cleaver, CEO of De Beers, Giles York, and Chief Constable of the Sussex Police. These new champions have committed to making gender equality an “institutional priority”, agreeing to monitor the commitments annually. For more information on UN Women and the HeForShe initiative, go to http://heforshe.org

Casper (the sleep company) goes to Casper (the city in Wyoming) for the Eclipse!

On August 21st, 2017, the earth crossed the shadow of the moon, creating a total solar eclipse that travelled across the entire USA – and one of the best places to view this astronomical event was Casper, WY. So Casper (the sleep company) hit the road to create a once-in-a-lifetime luxury camping experience for 50 lucky customers and fans.

Partnering with Under Canvas, Alamo Draft House, and Outdoor Voices, Casper set up a pop-up campground 15 miles outside of town at the Trout On Inn, a picturesque venue along the shores of the North Platte River.

Upon arrival, guests were checked in to luxurious Safari tents provided each outfitted with two twin beds featuring Casper mattresses and bedding. Lunch was served out of Casper, WY’s own Mad Flatters food truck, and outdoor apparel company Outdoor Voices organized float trips down the river and yoga in the fields. As afternoon activities came to an end, guests were treated to a sunset BBQ.

Following dinner, expert astronomer and Director of the Center for Astronomy and Physics Education Research, Stephanie Slater, in town herself for the eclipse, stopped by and offered her insights into the cosmic coincidence and its effects on the human race throughout history.

The evening closed with a screening under the stars of Close Encounters of the Third Kind presented by Alamo Draft House on their renowned inflatable screen set in the horse corral.

A cowboy breakfast was set in the morning where guests enjoyed pancakes and coffee in eager anticipation of the coming eclipse. As the path of the moon’s shadow passed through the country, and total darkness eclipsed broad daylight guests looked up to marvel at the sight.

A farewell lunch was served by Impossible Burger.

San Francisco’s Chandran Gallery hosted British-born Artist Shantell Martin’s month-long solo exhibition at their gallery’s Geary Street location. Her show, titled “Charge Your Self”, included site specific, immersive wall drawings, canvas works, ceramic objects, and other installations of her signature black and white art. Known for her immersive art installations, this specific exhibit explored connections between commitment, positive energy, and self-love.

Shantell Martin’s unmistakable drawings are visible both inside and outside of the gallery, as well as underfoot on a floor installation.

During a series of opening events, the multi-media artist welcomed guests into the space, delivered a live, interactive drawing demo and performed an improvisational music concert, using declarative and powerful word-based paintings as the basis for the performance.

Shantell Martin’s live appearances and installations have included a collaboration Kendrick Lamar for American Express at Art Basel, an interactive installation for Alicia Keys's Keep a Child Alive Black Ball, high profile events for Samsung, and work with institutions such as the MIT Media Lab, Autodesk, and New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts.

Eschewing traditional art world norms, Martin’s work purposefully bridges fine art, performance art, technology, and commercial work. Her artwork has appeared in the Brooklyn Museum, Museum of the Contemporary African Diaspora, Bata Show Museum, and at the prestigious Albright Knox Gallery in Buffalo, New York.

Shantell Martin is a creative force whose talents transcend individual genres of expression and forms and she is celebrated worldwide both for her innovative artworks and site specific installations, but also for her live drawing, keynote speeches, musical performances, and technology collaborations.

Shantell Martin is represented by Empire’s new Empire Artists division which represents a new generation of creators and artists.

For inquiries, please contact info@empireentertainment.com or call 212.343.1645

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When Microsoft and creative agency Dialogue Live sought a world class thought leader to deliver inspiration and insight to an important audience of global business decision makers, they turned to Empire to deliver the appropriate candidate. Empire ultimately delivered Ian Bremmer, an American political scientist who specializes in U.S. foreign policy, states in transition, and global political risk.

Set “In the round” at the Verizon Center in Washington, D.C., an audience of nearly 18,000 people watched as Ian Bremmer participated in a 30-minute fireside chat with Microsoft President and Chief Legal Officer, Brad Smith, discussing recent geopolitical events and the role the technology sector can play in advancing solutions to some of the world’s biggest issues.

The conversation also touched on a wide range of current affairs, including climate change, education, trade, and regulation, and the implications it has on business and society. The conversation ended with a discussion on artificial intelligence and its impact on jobs, and how the role of industry will change to advance sustainability.

It was evident that both the audience and Microsoft were inspired by Ian Bremmer’s insights, as they remained in rapt attention throughout the discussion.

Empire handled the negotiation and contracting of Ian Bremmer, coordination of all logistics, as well as all onsite management.

Empire is a leading resource in delivering keynote speakers, political experts, and speakers of all areas of expertise for a variety of organizations.

To watch the full discussion, visit: https://partner.microsoft.com/en-us/assets/2017/08/04/16/26/754561

OZY, the start-up media brand focused on bringing its readers the new and the next, brought their second installment of OZY Fest to Central Park's Summer stage.

This year’s line up featured the best in musical, intellectual, culinary, and artistic talent, and OZY Fest 2.0 enjoyed substantial growth from the previous year in terms of audience, media coverage, and stature.

Empire, working together with OZY, delivered several of the festival’s tent-pole headliners including closing headliner Jason Derulo, Samantha Bee, Malcolm Gladwell, Zara Larsson, and Eddie Huang.

Empire is a leading source for A-list talent for festivals, and public and corporate events throughout the world.

Empire was called upon to recommend and contract some of the most interesting keynote speakers in the world for a Fortune 500 company’s annual incentive and retreat program in spectacular Banff, Canada. The client collaborated with Empire to arrange a lineup that would wow their leading employees. Day one of the conference featured a moderated conversation and debate with David Axelrod (the Chief Strategist for President Obama’s campaigns) and conservative commentator and syndicated columnist, Dr. Charles Krauthammer. The two men shared their views on the current political and economic climate, with both providing tremendous insight and humor throughout the discussion.

The second day kicked off with a surprisingly emotional keynote from Dr. Robert Gates, who served as the 22nd United States Secretary of Defense from 2006 to 2011. Dr. Gates teared up when talking about how difficult it was for him to send young American soldiers into battle in Iraq and Afghanistan, and allowed the attendees a look inside his thinking while he served under Presidents George W. Bush and Obama.

Immediately following Dr. Gates, Empire presented Brian Muirhead, the current Chief Engineer for the NASA Engineering and SafetyCenter. Brian’s discussion of the Mars missions he has been involved with fascinated the attendees before they headed out for their afternoon activities.

The final speaker was J.R.Martinez, the wounded U.S. Army Veteran best known for winning season 13 of ABC’s “Dancing With The Stars”. Martinez’s message of never letting obstacles stand in your way and always looking for new peaks to climb left the audience on a high note on their final day in Banff.

For the evening events, the client asked Empire to suggest the ideal concert performer for a beautiful outdoor amphitheater surrounded by the Canadian Rockies. After much discussion, it was agreed that Grammy-winners Train would fit the bill, and they didn’t disappoint. Performing shows on two consecutive evenings, the band played hits including 2001’s Grammy winner for Best Song, “Drops of Jupiter”, as well as their most recent smash “Play That Song” (and all of their hits in between such as “Hey Soul Sister”, “Drive By”, “Meet Virginia”, “Marry Me”, “50 Ways to Say Goodbye”, and “Save Me San Francisco”). And the crowd also was thrilled with the band’s choice of covers which included “Ramble On”, “Under Pressure”, and especially “Don’t Stop Believing”, during which lead singer Pat Monahan invited a couple of attendees onstage to sing along.

Empire is proud of our track record in securing many of the world’s leading speakers and performing artists for special events in Canada and other international destinations.

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To welcome in the next generation of the NMD shoe line, adidas sought out to create a bi-coastal pop-up experience in both Los Angeles and New York City. The activations themselves featured repurposed shipping containers which included a camera obscura and retail space, allowing passersby to experience the optical illusion through a unique photo booth experience.

Consumers received a printed copy of their camera obscura experience and were welcomed to engage with the retail portion of the pop-up displaying exclusive NMD product. In New York City, the installation was decorated with photography from Dondre Green, a street photographer hailing from the Bronx.

Over the course of a week, the New York City pop-up located in Soho saw over 1,000 customers pass through, just blocks away from two of the brand’s flagship storefronts.

Empire, in partnership with Roundhouse Agency, was tasked with sourcing the location of the pop-up as well as securing all necessary permitting and providing on-site support to ensure a smooth event from end to end. We are proud to once again work with the adidas brand and continue to act as a leader in producing global fashion brand events.

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​Empire was proud to help produce the "SUPER ENERGY" fashion event for Kansai Yamamoto, one of the most famous Japanese designers, at the dynamic Roppongi Hills Arena.

The day-long festival is part of a massive effort to lift Japan out of the post-3/11 tsunami doldrums and energize it as it gets ready to host the 2020 Olympic Games.

The show featured approximately 250 big names, including Hip Hop artist, Tyga, actor/film director, Yusuke Iseya, model, Akimoto Kira, model/talent, Ahn Mika, model/artist, Tsuchiya Anna, actress/photgrapher, Miyuki Matsuda, movie commentator/talent, LiLiCo, and many more. The show also featured original clothing from Kansai Yamamoto’s archive collection and a range of performances that lit up the stage.

Other highlights of the show were energetic performances from the African Percussion Group "Wagan Ndiaye Rose with sophie ker gi" and the 100 brass band and dance department of Gakuen Hachioji Senior High School. It was a night of electric stage performances, unique acts, and various workshops backed by the voice of Kansai Yamamoto.

The family-friendly "SUPER ENERGY" event drew around 10,000 people.

Empire is a major producer of public events and is very proud to be a partner of this year's celebration.

For the fifth consecutive year, Empire served as producer of the Fragrance Foundation Awards, the fragrance industry’s premier event celebrating outstanding achievement and creativity.  

Held at Lincoln Center’s Alice Tully Hall, the evening began with guest arrivals and an elegant cocktail reception in the Hall’s outdoor sunken plaza and soaring glass atrium. Amidst a series of freestanding walls, printed with this year’s design motif, guests mingled and sipped champagne while attending celebrities walked the red carpet and posed for photographers.

Once seated in Alice Tully Hall, the evening's host, comedian and actor, Joel McHale, kicked off the star-studded award program in his signature style. His humorous opening monologue covered the Fragrance industry and this year’s nominee achievements.

Notable program participants included Hall of Fame Honoree and CEO of Puig, Marc Puig, Lifetime Achievement Perfumer, and Master Perfumer of Firmenich, Harry Frémont. Country singer Trisha Yearwood performed a moving rendition of "Somewhere Over the Rainbow".

Celebrity presenters and attendees included Karlie Kloss, Katie Holmes, Carolina Herrera, Judith Light, Adrian Grenier, NinaGarcia, Debi Mazar, Dascha Polanco, Jessica Pimentel, Mario Contone, Tommy Dorfman, Elettra Wiedemann, Carly Chaikin, Annie Parisse, Anna Clumsky, Lais Ribiero, and Rose Gilroy.

Following the seated Awards program, guests returned to the Alice Tully Hall atrium which had been transformed during the program into an elegant, seated dinner—the perfect summer evening dining experience.

The evening ended with an afterparty held at the Lincoln Restaurant where guests danced to music by fashion-favorite DJ Mia Moretti.  

The Fragrance Foundation Awards bring together virtually every luxury and consumer brand in the fragrance industry, including Estée Lauder, Ralph Lauren, Tom Ford, Diana Vreeland, Burberry, Giorgio Armani, ToryBurch, Marc Jacobs, Victoria’s Secret, Michael Kors, Givenchy, Elizabeth Arden, LVMH, Puig, Dolce & Gabbana, Chanel, Cartier, Jean Paul Gaultier, Hermès, Lancôme, Zegna, Clinique, and Gucci.

Empire is a leading producer of events, award shows and programs for the luxury brand, fragrance, cosmetics, and fashion industries.

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When TNT wanted to launch its new series, WILL, an unconventional period drama centered on a young William Shakespeare, they turned to Empire to deliver an attention-getting premiere event to reflect the unique character of the series.  

The premiere took place in the center of New York City on the iconic Bryant Park lawn. Empire worked closely with the Park to secure the venue and all permissions and to present the episode on the giant 40’x20’ screen used for the Summer Film Festival.  

After a set by DJ Jon Blak, themed festivities, and red carpet arrivals, the episode was introduced by EVP of TNT Original Programming, Sarah Aubrey, as well as executive producers Craig Pearce (The Great Gatsby, Moulin Rouge!, Romeo+ Juliet) and Shekhar Kapur (director and Golden Globe nominee for Elizabeth).

On a perfect summer evening, guests sat atop colorful blankets on the expansive lawn and enjoyed treats from Hester Street Fair vendors, including the aptly named “To Banh Mi or Not to Banh Mi”.  

Following the episode, Vanity Fair Senior Writer Josh Duboff brought the cast onstage fora live discussion, including Laurie Davidson, who plays William Shakespeare, Olivia DeJonge (The Visit, Hiding), Colm Meaney (Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, Hell on Wheels), Mattias Inwood (The Shanara Chronicles), Jamie Campbell Bower (Sweeney Todd, The Twilight Saga) and Ewen Bremner (Trainspotting, Snowpiercer).

After the stage presentation, the cast and friends headed over to the Bryant Park Grill which had been tented and transformed into a festive Elizabethan party hall. Shelves stacked with books and skulls, tapestries, and British rustic furnishings were juxtaposed with posters that combined the aesthetics of Elizabethan England with edgy punkrock street art, setting the perfect tone for the party.

Guests enjoyed British pub food and drinks while participating in a branded photo booth, tattoo, and calligraphy activities, all to a soundtrack of the Sex Pistols, The Clash, and The Jam.

For this large-scale public event and VIP afterparty, Empire was responsible for securing the venues, handling all staging and technical production, audience logistics, and activities as well as the décor, design, and production of the afterparty.  

Empire is a frequent producer of large-scale premieres and is a trusted activation partner to networks and studios in the all-important New York City market.  

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On a crystal clear evening, guests arrived at the Observatory at the top of the World Trade Center building to a stunning sunset over the New York City skyline. The tone was set for a beautiful and warm evening to celebrate and raise support for one of Empire’s most beloved long-time clients, Happy Hearts Fund.

The Happy Hearts Fund, founded by Petra Nemcovain 2006 after she survived the 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami, is dedicated to providing ongoing support by building schools and providing opportunities for education to children in countries effected by natural disaster, long after primary rescue efforts have left these struggling communities. Celebrating the success of these school programs, the theme of the the night was Graduation: Class of 2017!

The evening kicked off with a cocktail reception, passed canapes, and remarks by Petra, Tomas Alvarez-Bolon, also a survivor of the Indian Ocean Tsunami, and Edna Candelaria, a student at one of the Happy Hearts Schools in the Philippines. Many major supporters were honored with an award and “diploma” for their tireless involvement in the cause, including motivational speaker and dedicated philanthropist Tony Robbins, long-time Happy Hearts Fund supporter, Ramzi Mussalam, and Founder of All Hands Volunteers, David Campbell.

After this, guests took part in a live auction hosted by the ebullient auctioneer, Simon de Pury, and they were off to the races! In no short order over a million dollars was raised and some very pleased guests would be going home with a variety of priceless trips and experiences, fantastic jewelry, and fine art by modern masters like Bosco Sodiand and Helidon Xhixha. Guests also won premium tickets and backstage passes to John Legend and U2, a once-in-a-lifetime South African excursion, and more, all of which was donated from supporters from around the world.

Following the extremely successful auction, guests enjoyed a whimsical buttermilk and berry panna cotta as they enjoyed a high energy performance by Just Kool from Kool and the Gang with hits like“Fresh,” “Get Down On It,” and “Celebration”.

As dinner and the performances came to an end, guests were then invited to the next room for an after party hosted by DJ Cassidy, who had them on their feet dancing until the wee hours of the morning.

Empire is proud to continue our partnership with many purposeful and impactful non-profits like Happy Hearts Fund, and to help them successfully host these thrilling fundraising events.

To learn more about Happy Hearts Fund, please visit www.happyheartsfund.org

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Global advertising and powerhouse marketing agency, Grey, launched its year-long centennial celebration with a kick-off week featuring a mix of business meetings as well as celebratory social events. Grey called upon Empire to produce three of their biggest events for the week.

Grey welcomed agency leaders from around the world with a reception and seated dinner in the Whitney Museum of American Art. After remarks by Debby Reiner, CEO of Grey New York, Marc Pritchard, Chief Brand Officer of P&G, and Sir Martin Sorrell, CEO of WPP, guests had the chance to explore the Whitney. During dinner, Jim Heekin, Chairman and CEO of Grey Global, unveiled the gorgeous, warm red coffee table book profiling Grey’s first 100 years. These books were also showcased on bookshelves spanning the Whitney lobby. Michael Houston, Grey Global President, revealed the commemorative Grey centennial logo – one that celebrates the colorful, diverse minds of Grey's 5,000 global employees by turning scans of their brainwaves into art. A video also introduced Grey's Rising Stars, recognizing young talent and their worldwide contributions to the agency.

The 68th floor of 4 World Trade Center was the perfect setting for the Global Meetings. Floor-to-ceiling windows provided an expansive 360° backdrop of skyline views while executives attended keynotes and breakout sessions. To balance the sun-filled venue, window tints were customized with elements of the Grey centennial logo to add another layer of branding and dimension to the space. Similar vinyls also subtly called out iconic New York City landmarks for newcomers.

The Centennial Gala dinner at Madison Square Park concluded the week of events. Guests enjoyed cocktails inside elegant tents surrounding the main bar set up in the central fountain, while DJ Lina provided music throughout the evening. The clear expansive dinner tent featured a stunning ceiling installation of sheer fabric panels printed with Centennial graphics. The dinner program featured comedic throwbacks to some of Grey's most famous ads, and presented awards to teams behind iconic campaigns featuring Volvo, Gillette, the E*TRADE baby, the Swedish Number, and more. As part of the future-facing announcements, Houston introduced the UNICEF + Grey Global Kids Council, vowing to drive social change by working together with the next generation to solve cultural challenges with creative solutions.

Additional visual aesthetics and brand messaging were creatively integrated into the event. Floral arrangements in the warm red tones found in theGrey logo were displayed in modern vessels to offset and match the monochromatic, minimal, and geometric designs of furniture and table settings. Red colors were also featured in the custom-designed "brainwave" barback drop and sculptural dinner centerpieces cut from acrylic panels.

Empire is proud to collaborate with Grey to celebrate their monumental achievement and reveal a commemorative visual identity for the 2017 Centennial year – highlighting Grey’s global range of creative perspectives and solutions in creating Famously Effective work.

Screenvision Media is a premier cinema, video, and media organization that curates powerful and uncluttered storytelling for brands, exhibitors, and audiences at movie theatres nationwide. For this year’s Screenvision Media Upfront, the company chose the theme “The Most Memorable Impression” to represent their ability to deliver impact before, during, and after the in-theatre experience. The Upfront demonstrated how Screenvision Media connects brands to every part of the moviegoer’s journey, driven by data and technology, interactivity and integration.

To bring the “Most Memorable Impression" theme to life, Empire developed a design and concept, working closely with Screenvision Media, to transform New York City’s PlayStation Theater into a fully immersive theater and afterparty experience for its high-level attendees.

As guests checked in to the event, they were encouraged to download an app that functioned as both a digital passport and tool to unlock special AR content throughout the evening. Guests then moved into the theater space where top Screenvision Media executives, including CEO John Partilla, unveiled its “10 Pack” offering, a package giving advertisers access to blockbuster films along with an advanced targeting tool, Cintel. Through Cintel, brands will have the ability to target advertising based on behavioral and psychographic data, in addition to movie genre and demographics. Highlights from the industry were also showcased, including the upcoming 2017/18 movie slate and record-breaking box office figures.

After a reveal to the afterparty, guests were welcomed to a large, inviting space featuring a 24’ bar, innovative atering stations by Creative Edge, and interactive movie sets inspired by some of the most anticipated feature films. The main attraction was on the existing concert stage, where guests stepped into the jungle of Sony’s “Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle”, Marvel Studios’ “Thor: Ragnarok”, Sony’s “The Emoji Movie”, and Fox Studio’s “Deadpool 2”. Within each set were a series of custom guest activities including actual movie props and an interactive photo booth in “Jumanji”, a Whiskey tasting bar and pool table in “Deadpool”, and arm wrestling table in “Thor: Ragnarok” meant to depict the film’s gladiatorial contest between Thor and the Hulk.

Christie Digital, Vision Media, and Selfie With Me provided interactive video walls and photo booths throughout the event.

Empire is proud to have once again worked closely with Screenvision Media’s team to reach their advertisers with a creative concept and provide a memorable experience for the influencers in attendance. Empire was responsible for all event details including concept, venue acquisition, layout and set design, catering, staging, sound, lighting, graphics, furnishings, carpet, catering, technical production, staffing and partner/studio coordination.

Empire is a leading producer of innovative Upfronts, Newfronts, and other mission critical business-to-business events.

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The Architizer A+ Awards are the definitive global architectural award program, with over 100 categories, and are judged by a panel of more than 400 luminaries and thought leaders from fields as diverse as fashion, publishing, product design, real estate development, and tech. Winners, jurors, and VIPs gathered at a red-carpet gala that is part of the three-week-long NYCxDesign program New York City. Comprising diverse and innovative global projects from starchitects to emerging firms, this year’s winners represent the best new architecture, interiors, and products from across the globe. For the third year in a row, Empire was at the helm to ensure this event was a success.

The ceremony kicked off with a phenomenal and impassioned speech about the Architecture industry by Architizer CEO, Marc Kushner, who served as the evenings host.

"The A+ gala is more than just a party. It represents a moment for us to stand up and champion our art, recognizing the transformational role that architecture plays in our lives," said Kushner.

Luminaries from the world of architecture and design entered the industrial-style space to a red carpet and step & repeat welcome, where event sponsor Sunbrella’s custom architectural installation welcomed guests under an array of colored fabric. Guests enjoyed cocktails and passed hors d'oeuvres by Cloud Catering along with ambient music played by DJ Javier Peral, while enjoying the décor and enhanced atmosphere with a custom Corian bar created by sponsor DuPont.

Attendees also enjoyed interacting with the Behr/Home Depot photo booth and extraordinary visual demonstrations of winning projects by the virtual reality team at Graphisoft.

This year's biggest winner was Adjaye Associates, which was named Firm of the Year, and other special achievement awards were presented to Koray Duman, Tatiana Bilbao, Carlo Ratti, and and DJI drones, among others. The Lifetime Achievement honoree was handed to the brilliant architect, Odile Decq, which was highlight of the night where all were inspired by her legacy.

"[Receiving this award] is an incredible honor and, of course, very humbling...To be recognized for work that you deeply believe in is incredibly rewarding." - Sir David Adjaye

Empire is a premier producer of some of the world's most prestigious award ceremonies, including The Webby Awards, The Fragrance Foundation Awards, and was honored to be chosen as Architizer's production partner for the Architizer A+ Awards.

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