What Were Producing

Carey Mulligan and Marcus Mumford's Wassail Benefit for Children in Conflict

Carey Mulligan and Marcus Mumford's Wassail Benefit for Children in Conflict

New York City

December 2024

Carey Mulligan and Marcus Mumford's Annual Wassail Benefit for Children in Conflict supports Children in Conflict’s humanitarian efforts. The evening balanced connectivity and emotion, inspiring generous contributions that raised over $2.2 million. The fundraiser featured John Oliver as host and remarks from Emily Blunt, John Krasinski, Bowen Yang, and Julianne Moore. Luanda Musafiri Emmanuella, a 22-year old Ugandan survivor, told her powerful story that inspired her to create Tumaini, a partner organization supporting women and girls. Star performers included Patti Smith, Brandi Carlile, Leon Bridges, Oscar Isaac, and, of course, Mumford & Sons. 

Over 250 guests enjoyed a touching program focused on the cause, learning about Children in Conflict’s work in war zones and how donations directly impact children in need. Attendees included Anna Wintour, Steven Spielberg, Blake Lively, and many more. Vogue, the event’s exclusive media partner, noted, “Despite the heavy-hitting lineup, none of the above felt remotely corporate, overly earnest, or organized within an inch of its life, as so many charity events are.”

The evening transitioned seamlessly from a lively reception to a seated dinner and program, ensuring a cohesive and creative concept throughout. Catered by our partner Pinch, the New York-style menu was thoughtfully tailored to complement the event’s warm holiday atmosphere, delighting a dynamic mix of attendees. 

We are honored to have brought this evening to life in collaboration with Children in Conflict and our incredible partners. To learn more, read Vogue’s exclusive feature on the night here.

Photography: Yvonne Tnt

New York Public Radio Centennial Gala

New York Public Radio Centennial Gala

New York City

November 2024

WNYC’s 100th Anniversary Celebration at The Glasshouse captured the spirit of a century-long legacy while raising over $2.1 million in support of the New York City's flagship public radio station and WNYC’s parent company, New York Public Radio.

For the fifth consecutive year, we seamlessly blended immersive storytelling with dynamic programming to celebrate WNYC’s enduring impact on audiences and communities. This year, in honor of WNYC’s centennial, a centerpiece of the evening was a visually stunning timeline and gallery of curated archival artifacts, bringing WNYC’s rich history to life.

Hosted by the charismatic Seth Meyers, with Harry Santa-Olalla as auctioneer, the celebration featured unforgettable moments with guests such as Meryl Streep, Julia Stiles, and John Turturro. 

The program included a live auction, remarks from LaFontaine E. Oliver, President and CEO, NYPR, Timothy A. Wilkins, Board Chair, NYPR, and performances by the award-winning Young People’s Chorus of New York City, jazz virtuoso Aaron Diehl, and Broadway powerhouse Shoshana Bean. 

With an afterparty hosted by IG personality New York Nico, the evening featured DJ Talib spinning tracks and a spread of iconic New York favorites: Joe’s Pizza, hot dogs, and, of course, Mister Softee.

Empire was thrilled to produce the centennial event for NYPR, developing program run-of-show, event creative, screen content, and managing technical production and stage management. 

Photography by Carey MacArthur & Tate Productions.

Hanwha LIFEPLUS NY

Hanwha LIFEPLUS NY

New York City

November 2024

Hanwha Finance has returned to New York City for its second year of LIFEPLUS NY. A premier annual event bringing together industry professionals and talented students from top universities, LIFEPLUS NY provides professional insight, career advice, and entertainment. This year, Hanwha Finance gathered a total of 21 speakers and three headline musicians and groups from South Korea with over 700 people in attendance.

During the conference portion, industry leaders and experts in finance and tech led panel discussions and keynote lectures. A new 1:1 consulting program was implemented this year where over ten companies brought in career booths, and students were able to meet with company representatives.

A new space within the venue, The Glasshouse, was revealed after the conference for dinner and networking, which was followed by an afterparty. Hanwha invited back Jaeki Cho, rising social media star and founder of Righteous Eats, to MC the evening. The afterparty was headlined by top South Korean musicians such as hip-hop icons Dynamic Duo, rap star pH-1, and fusion rock artists Seodo Band. 

Empire provided overall project management, production conceptualization, design, and execution, program development, and logistics for executives, speakers, and talent. 

GIC Singapore Insights Summit and 40th Anniversary Dinner

GIC Singapore Insights Summit and 40th Anniversary Dinner

New York City

November 2024

GIC’s annual Insights forum isn’t just a gathering—it’s where 300+ global leaders tackle the world’s biggest challenges. This year, marking 40 years in the U.S., GIC tapped Empire to elevate GIC Insights and a Gala Dinner at New York City’s Spring Studios into a standout celebration of vision and impact.

Themed Invested in a Global Future, the day kicked off with a power lunch overlooking the Hudson, flowing into a Forum led by Eric Wilmes (GIC Americas PE Head) and featuring Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong and GIC Chairman Lim Chow Kiat. A “Boardroom of Ideas” panel included Stephen Schwarzman (Blackstone), Ray Dalio (Bridgewater), Susan Li (Meta), Dave Ricks (Eli Lilly), and others. The night ended with a 40th Anniversary Gala, where Senior Minister Lee's heartfelt words and a medallion signing toasted GIC’s legacy.

The Fortune Global Forum

The Fortune Global Forum

New York City

November 2024

Colin Cowie Lifestyle partnered with Empire to produce innovative and immersive experiences for the 2024 Fortune Global Forum held at Jazz at Lincoln Center. The forum served as a pivotal gathering for global CEOs to address emerging challenges and opportunities, from AI and climate change to geopolitical risks.

Reimagining the traditional conference format, Colin Cowie Lifestyle envisioned an event that combined luxury, entertainment, and business in a way never seen before. The event featured several standout elements including a luxury check-in experience, interactive art installations by BREAKFAST Studio, and sponsored activations for the AFEELA electric vehicle and the Wuliangye specialty baijiu bar. 

Day one culminated in a glamorous gala dinner where guests were greeted with Dom Pérignon, live oyster shucking and caviar, aerialists, buskers, magicians, and more. Highlights from the evening included remarks from Alyson Shontell, Editor-in-Chief, Fortune, a toast from Anastasia Nyrkovskaya, CEO, Fortune, and “Music Through the Ages”—a series of live performances transporting guests through time and music history.

We served as a key partner in executing this vision, offering expertise in project management, technical production, stage management, and logistical coordination. Empire Entertainment remains at the forefront of producing high-impact, immersive events that leave lasting impressions on clients, sponsors, and guests alike.

Credits

Technical Direction, Logistical Coordination, Project & Stage Management: @empireproduced

Design & Production: @colincowie @colincowielifestyle

Producer: @arnelldesign

Florals: @jsperaltaevents

Photography: @judson_rappaport

Décor: @colincowielifestyle @taylorcreativeinc @luxeeventrentals

Lighting: @levynyc

Entertainment: @onthemoveevents

Stationery: @alexandmima

Scenic: @wearesbi

Technical production: @4wallCatering: @gpfood

Plenary session: @Fortunemag

Video production: @lerevefilms @arnelldesign

Kinetic Art: @breakfaststudio

Longchamp "THINK PINK!" Dinner

Longchamp "THINK PINK!" Dinner

Tokyo, Japan

November 2024

At TRUNK(HOUSE) in Tokyo’s charming Kagurazaka district, Longchamp hosted an intimate dinner event to unveil its THINK PINK! Spring 2025 collection. The setting felt like Paris wrapped in a rosy filter, where shades of pink illuminated every corner of the venue.

Dressed in the collection’s vibrant pieces, guests embraced the arrival of spring with a celebration of individuality and joyful self-expression. Highlighting Longchamp’s cherished value of craftsmanship, the evening featured a wagashi-making workshop, where participants experienced the delicate art of traditional Japanese sweets, echoing the maison’s dedication to artisanal excellence.

Paired with exquisite cuisine and thoughtful décor that blended warmth and sophistication, the one-night-only event encapsulated Longchamp’s free-spirited elegance—a memorable prelude to a bright, optimistic season.

Delivering an atmosphere of warmth and artistry, we were privileged to work with Longchamp to bring this special evening to life. By weaving together refined details and cultural experiences, we helped shape an unforgettable moment that celebrated both the brand’s heritage and forward-looking spirit.

Photography by Rob Kim/Bravo
“Watch Party by Bravo” Series

“Watch Party by Bravo” Series

Nationwide

November 2024

Empire partnered with Bravo to present a series of advanced screening events across the country for fans of Bravo’s popular unscripted TV shows. This multi-city event series throughout the summer and fall offered Bravo superfans exclusive and early access to screen their favorite shows, including Summer House, The Real Housewives of Orange County, The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City, and The Real Housewives of New York City.  

At the heart of this partnership is Bravo's extraordinary relationship with its fans. The Watch Party by Bravo event series gave fans a chance to attend exclusive screenings of Bravo’s highly anticipated programming and interact with Bravo talent, all while being with those who share a like-minded love for Bravo. Empire Entertainment was responsible for the full scope of these events, including creative direction, event design & décor, venue coordination, technical production, and guest logistics. From Los Angeles to Salt Lake City and New York City, we ensured that every aspect, from venue selection to the fan engagement moments, created a captivating atmosphere that pulled attendees into the world of Bravo.  

We are proud to have been selected by Bravo to spearhead the launch of the Watch Party by Bravo event series, helping bring these interactive fan experiences to life and strengthening the connection between Bravo and the Bravoholics.

Colby College’s Dare Northward

Colby College’s Dare Northward

New York City

October 2024

Colby College tapped Empire to produce an interactive event that brought over 350 alumni, supporters, and leaders together to showcase the liberal arts college's accomplishments emerging from their recent Dare Northward Campaign. The evening highlighted the impact of donors on campus with custom activations that brought the spirit of Colby in Maine to New York City.

We developed the creative vision from décor to catering and event flow. Guests enjoyed a fireside chat exploring Colby’s future, followed by a lively afterparty reception. Five immersive installations captured the college’s legacy, including a branded photo station, seasonal campus photo activation, lightbox installation, Miller Library-inspired bar, and a Harold Alfond Athletics and Recreation Center and Harold Alfond Athletics lounge. With LED/projection walls spotlighting the campus community and Arts at Colby, the evening brought the college’s identity to life.

Games for Change Summit at United Nations

Games for Change Summit at United Nations

New York City

October 2024

In collaboration with Games for Change, Empire helped bring the Games & SDG Summit to life at the United Nations Delegates Dining Room. More than 170 guests came together to explore how games and immersive media can help support key Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) that impact society and the environment.

The event offered fireside chats, panels, and presentations from cross-sector leaders, along with an on-site arcade featuring games centered on SDG themes like climate change, sustainability, and emotional wellbeing. The day concluded with breakout workshops, where attendees discussed industry challenges, shared solutions, and explored concrete outcomes.

Empire collaborated closely with Games for Change and the United Nations to deliver a successful event, overseeing all aspects of production, including technical, creative, and logistical elements.

New Heights GameChangers Ball

New Heights GameChangers Ball

Brooklyn

October 2024

For the 4th consecutive year, New Heights, a non-profit dedicated to sports-based youth development and education, partnered with Empire to produce their signature GameChangers Ball. The event took place at the Major R. Owens Health & Wellness Community Center in Crown Heights, Brooklyn—New Heights' own home base.

The GameChangers Ball raises crucial funds and celebrates the impact of New Heights’ programs on youth programs. This year's ball hosted 320 guests and raised a record breaking $1.5M through table tickets, donations, live auctions, and auctioneer appeals to support New Heights’ youth programs and initiatives. 

We transformed a basketball gym into an elegant ballroom, overseeing every aspect of the event from concept to execution. Our team handled overall creative and design, production, stage programming, and produced a live performance by Michael Cartwright and music by DJ Andre Oswald.

We are proud to work with non-profit organizations such as New Heights to help create moments with impact and moments that matter. 

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