Our Work

​A Fortune 300 financial services firm had its annual incentive program in Nashville in and asked Empire to recommend entertainment for each night that fit in with the "Music City" setting.

The first night was at the storied Grand Ole Opry, and Empire presented country legend Vince Gill. Gill showed why he has been the recipient of 20 Grammy Awards, mesmerizing the crowd with his virtuoso guitar playing and soulful vocals on classics such as "Bread and Water" and "Threaten Me With Heaven". And his storytelling between songs had the audience hanging on every word.

For the second night, Empire brought in the youngest Grammy Award winner ever— LeAnn Rimes. Rimes alternately rocked the crowd with hits like "Can't Fight The Moonlight" and a cover of Janis Joplin's "Me and Bobby McGee". She also had the attendees in the palm of her hand with ballads including "How Do I Live" and "Amazing Grace".

For the final evening, Empire encouraged the client to bring in an artist with country roots, but who has more of a pop/rock vibe. Nine-time Grammy winner Sheryl Crow fit the bill, performing cuts with a country flair like "The First Cut is The Deepest" and "Strong Enough", but also tearing the roof off with rockers like "Every Day Is A Winding Road", "All I Wanna Do", and even a blistering cover of Led Zeppelin's "Rock & Roll".

Empire contracts headline entertainers for special events worldwide, and has presented and produced dozens of Grammy Award-winners for our clients' programs around the globe.

The setting: an outdoor stage on the beach at the idyllic Ritz-Carlton Hotel in Cancun, Mexico. The purpose: an incentive program for one of the world’s leading communication technology companies. The perfect headline entertainment: multiple Grammy winning band, Train.

Train’s participation in the event was a secret until the moment they were announced onstage to the excited audience of approximately 200 guests and spouses. Once onstage, Train did not disappoint. Their eighty-five minute set included all of their biggest hits, including “Drops of Jupiter,” “Meet Virginia,” “Hey Soul Sister,” and “Drive By,” as well as several covers including, “Ramble On,” and “Don’t Stop Believing,” which included inviting two guests up on stage to sing along with lead singer, Pat Monahan.

Throughout the show, Pat took “selfies” with the audience, and threw several t-shirts into the crowd, including one that he had signed onstage by all band members. In addition, following the performance, Pat graciously greeted and talked with VIPs, taking photos with all of them.

For this incentive program, Empire worked closely with the client’s production company, Swift Smart Solutions, to identify talent candidates, negotiate the performance contract, and facilitate the development of a working production and logistical plan. The collaboration with Swift further included all technical requirements for a stage, sound, lights, and video on the beach, as well as freight into and out of Mexico, local musician’s union requirements, and work permits.

Empire is a leading provider of headline entertainment for corporate meetings and events and is deeply experienced in overcoming the challenges of presenting headline entertainment outside of the United States.

​On the eve of the nation’s first 2016 Presidential primary in New Hampshire, the Bernie Sanders campaign contacted Empire to assist them in presenting an inspiring public concert and rally at the University of New Hampshire’s Whittemore Center. The catch: we had only 72 hours to plan and execute this historic event. Undeterred by the impossible time frame or the impending blizzard, Empire worked quickly to arrange the deliverables necessary to make the show happen.

The incredible lineup included performances by Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros, Young The Giant, Fantastic Negrito, Big Data, Matt Nathanson, Jon Fishman of Phish, and Kat Wright & Friends, and was hosted by Sports Illustrated Swimsuit model, Emily Ratajkowski. Senator Bernie Sanders was then introduced by this star-studded group and delivered a powerful speech to the crowd of thousands of students, teachers, parents, and children, encouraging them to be part of the political process, and to get out and vote. Sanders’ speech was well received and culminated with an original, never-before-played live song by Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros, Feel the Bern. The entire star-studded lineup then joined them on stage for a sensational finale.

Empire partnered with C3 Presents to produce the concert, providing all technical coordination, lighting, audio, video projection and playback, show calling communications, and onsite talent wrangling services. Working in tandem with the Bernie Sanders campaign and C3 Presents, Empire was able to deliver this one-of-a-kind performance supporting Senator Sanders in the hours leading up to the New Hampshire Primary.

Empire is a non-partisan company that supports political campaigns, social and environmental rallies, not-for-profit fundraisers, and activations with headline talent, production, and technical and design expertise.

Once again, the Grammy Awards had Los Angeles buzzing with high-profile events. For the fifth year, Empire was called upon by the visionary artist, entrepreneur, and philanthropist will.i.am to produce the annual TRANS4M Gala, benefiting his i.am.angel Foundation. This year’s Gala honored Producer Norman Lear and was co-hosted by Marc Benioff, Ron Conway, Laurene Powell-Jobs, Sean and Alexandra Parker, and Dean Kamen. The foundation supports transfomation and revival in will.i.am’s hometown of Boyle Heights in east Los Angeles by providing opportunities in STEAM education (Science, Technology, Engineering,Arts and Math) and college readiness.

Over 200 supporters gathered at will.i.am’s studio and headquarters known as ‘The Future’ for an intimate evening that showcased the Foundation’s programs and students. i.am.angel’s donors enjoyed cocktails and hors d'oeuvres as they made their way through The Future’s space, engaging with students in a variety of demonstrations related to i.am.angel’s STEAM programming.

Students showed off their innovative technology projects including a solar car, catapult, hand-built robots, and ESRI maps. Guests also had the opportunity to view and bid on work by artist Janne Kyttanen, best known for his revolutionary work with 3D printing. In addition, “Made ofJapan”, a 3D-printed light sculpture, was available for guests to bid on. This work was originally created as the centerpiece for Onitsuka Tiger’s multi-award-winning Electric Light Shoe campaign, and features a network of Tokyo-inspired streets and highways.

After cocktails, guests made their way to Milk Studios, which had been transformed into an elegant dining room with long rustic wooden tables. Flourishes including hanging greenery, pin-spotted tabletop florals, and flickering candlelight gave the space a warm yet forward-looking style.

Cynthia Erenas, an i.am.angel success story, kicked off the program and warmed the stage with her heartfelt tribute to will.i.am for his commitment to STEAM education. will.i.am was joined on stage by i.am College Track Site Director, Silvestre Vallejo, i.am.angel Director of STEM, Lilly Kam, STEM Academy of Boyle Heights, Teacher Leo Magallon, and their students.

As the evening progressed, auctioneer Zack Krone took the stage and led guests to bid on a 3D Printed Fashion Masterclass, tickets to the GRAMMY Awards and afterparty, an autographed guitar from Sting, a private tour of DEKA Research and Development Facility with Dean Kamen, yoga with Russell Simmons, and tickets to the taping of The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon with a backstage tour with The Roots.

The evening’s highlights also included a performance by the first lady of neo soul, Erykah Badu, and an intimate conversation between the evening’s honoree, Norman Lear, and Touré that covered Mr. Lear’s seven-decade career. Guests wrapped up the evening by dancing the night away with DJ Adam 12.

Empire is honored to continue our long-term partnership with the i.am.angel Foundation and to serve as producer of this exclusive event.

For more information on this innovative foundation, please visit www.iamangelfoundation.org

Empire was proud to work with Ebony and Apple iTunes to present Celebrate Black Hollywood on the eve of the Academy Awards.

This inaugural event took place within the historical and repurposed Studio A, located within the brand new industrial co-working space, the NeueHouse Hollywood, which occupies the landmarked 1938 CBS Radio Building.

Following a packed red carpet and guest check-in via iPads, a brief and moving speaking program was presented to the room full of black actors, directors, producers, writer, executives, and entertainment industry veterans.

The program included remarks by Linda Johnson Rice, Chairman of the Johnson Publishing Company, Bozoma Saint John, head of global consumer marketing, iTunes, and Apple Music at Apple, and EBONY magazine Editor-in-chief, Kierna Mayo.

Following the executive remarks, actor Anthony Anderson, star of Black-ish, took to the stage to share his experiences in Hollywood, and introduced Nate Parker, the writer, director, producer and star of The Birth of a Nation, which premiered at the 2016 Sundance Film Festival and set a new record for selling price. Parker spoke about Black Hollywood banding together to win success at its own terms.

After a celebratory toast, celebrity DJs Nick Cannon and D-Nice kept the room dancing until the wee hours of the morning.

Empire is a leading producer of high-profile events and is proud to have been chosen to support this remarkable event for EBONYMagazine, The Johnson Publishing Company, and Apple iTunes.

For additional editorial coverage, please visit http://www.ebony.com/photos/entertainment-culture/embracing-black-hollywood#axzz41lmU0wKA

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Over the last 10 years, charity: water has redefined thetypical fundraising gala through its signature event, charity: ball. They constantlyutilize new technologies to bring their work to life and inspire guests to give,which has resulted in bringing clean water to hundreds of thousands of peopleover the years. In line with the organization’s model, 100% of every dollarraised at the gala goes straight to the field to bring more people clean water. The 2015 charity: ball was no different.

charity: water hosted its first ever black-tie, sit-downdinner at the legendary Temple of Dendur at The Metropolitan Museum of Art. Uponarrival, guests mingled in the Great Hall amongst charity: water’s hallmarkbeautiful photographs from the field in Ethiopia. Following cocktail hour,everyone made their way through the Egyptian galleries to dinner at The Templeof Dendur in The Sackler Wing. A stunning backdrop, thanks to lighting fromFrost Lighting and décor by Van Vliet and Trap.

Taking advantage of the seated dinner format, charity: waterfocused its energy on a brief and impactful stage program. Scott Harrison, theorganization’s Founder and CEO, welcomed everyone to the 10th anniversary event with an overview of the evening to come, preparing guestsfor a special experience. Pushing the boundaries once again, charity: waterpresented the largest simultaneous Virtual Reality viewing of a special filmthey produced about a girl from Ethiopia named Salem, thanks to support fromsponsors Verizon and Samsung. The 8-minute video brought you directly into thefield where you experienced firsthand the struggle of life with dirty water andthe difference one well makes for a whole community.

Following the viewing, professional auctioneers from Christie’stook the stage to lead another new iteration of charity: water’s unique liveauction. Similar to years past, guests were invited to pledge donations byswiping their RFID bracelets programmed and provided by Connect&Go. Asalways, the auction didn’t consist of expensive prizes or elaborate trips, butsimply the opportunity to bring communities across the globe life’s mostbasic need—clean water. Whereas in years past it was an individual experience,this year the auction fostered a communal concept where individual pledges combinedto create their tables’ cumulative amount, creating a bidding competitionamongst the tables. Real-time graphics were projected on the wall of the museumthanks to our partner L&M, tracking the donations visually. As certain fundraisinglevels were reached, guests were treated to surprise champagne toasts. Celebratingthe $2.4 million raised and 243 villages that will receive clean water, theevening culminated in a special guest performance by Zach Williams, front manfor the Lone Bellow.

Overall, CBX was one for the books and we’re honored tocontinue to partner with charity: water and help make whatever difference wecan.

To learn more about their work or to get involved pleasevisit http://www.charitywater.org/

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On December 2, 2015, EBONY Magazine presented the 4th annualEBONY Power 100 Gala, honoring the nation’s 100 most influential AfricanAmericans and celebrating the 70^th Anniversary of the publication.

This year’s Ebony Power 100, livestreamed on ebony.com, tookplace at the historic Beverly Hilton's International Ballroom and washosted by Johnson Publishing Company Chairwoman, Linda Johnson Rice, and CEO Desirée Rogers.

Following red carpet arrivals and an elegant VIP cocktail reception, the 500+ guests were seated for adinner program emceed by television and movie star Arsenio Hall. Attendeeswere entertained by a wide array of musical performances, each one representingthe music industry over the past 70 years. Performers included child phenom,Bobby Hill (who recently serenaded the Pope), Jidenna, who wowed with hits like“Classic Man", vocalist Judith Hill (whose forthcoming album is produced byPrince), and a rousing finalé performance by none other than George Clinton andthe Parliament Funkadelic.

DJ Kiss performed throughout the event and spun at the post-reception in the InternationalFoyer and Terrace.

Celebrities and A-listers in attendance included Zendaya andJesse Williams (who graced the cover of the annual issue), as well as AnthonyAnderson, Tracee Ellis Ross, Tina Knowles, Loretta Devine, Holly RobinsonPeete, Ledisi, and Verdine White of Earth Wind & Fire. Harry Belafonte, who also appeared on the cover, sent a heartfelt video tribute for the occasion.

The Ebony Power 100 was presented by Nationwide Insurance, with othernoteworthy sponsors and partners including United Airlines, Cadillac, Hennessy, HiltonWorldwide, Twitter, and Home Depot.

Empire was honored to once again serve as event producer forthe Ebony Power 100, responsible for venue selection, décor, production, talentbooking & coordination, registration, livestream, videography, eventlogistics and onsite management.

Empire is a leading producer of branded entertainment and broadcastand non-broadcast, celebrity-driven media events.

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After their successful inaugural gala fundraiser in 2013 honoring Karl Lagerfeld, and their second event in 2014 recognizing the career of Stella McCartney, the Lincoln Center Corporate Fund (LCCF) chose to honor the creative directors of the culturally iconic and internationally recognized fashion house, Valentino, with their Women’s Leadership Award. To produce this prestigious event, the LCCF turned to us for the third year to design and produce the evening.

Held again at Alice Tully Hall, the evening began with a red carpet and VIP cocktail reception. Twenty five pieces from Valentino’s Fall 2015 Collection were on display in the lobby, providing guests with a rare, up close view of the one-of-a-kind dresses. The couture was showcased in custom-designed display units, produced in Italy and installed specifically for this event.

Guests then moved into the theater, where Glenda Bailey, the editor of Harper’s Bazaar, Diane Kruger and Keira Knightley spoke about the Valentino designers Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pierpaolo Piccioli, who took over the label in 2008, shortly after the retirement of the company’s founder, Valentino Garavani. Ms. Knightley presented the duo with the awards by Lalique, but not before Valentino co-founder, Giancarlo Giammetti, jumped on stage for an impromptu toast.

To close the program, Bruce Willis took the stage to introduce Debbie Harry, who performed some of her most well-known Blondie hits. Ms. Harry performed alongside a Juilliard string quartet for a unique rendition of her classic songs.

Following the stage program, guests re-entered the Alice Tully Hall lobbies, which had been transformed from the reception space in to a seated dinner for 350 guests, designed in a classic black and white palette, which allowed for a glamorous backdrop to Valentino's designs.

To learn more about the Corporate Fund and to donate please visit http://www.lccorporatefund.org.

We were honored to be involved in another program at Lincoln Center in support of the arts and continue our work with esteemed fashion and luxury brands.

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One of the largest and most influential tech gatherings in the world, the Salesforce World Tour brings together businesses and technology leaders who are focused on opportunities in cloud-based and mobile computing. Empire's Tokyo Office was proud to again produce this industry benchmark event for client Salesforce.

The event hosted over 14,000 registered guests over the course of two days at three different venues, the Ryogoku Kokugikan, the Prince Park Tower, and Toranomon Hills Forum in Tokyo, and the livestream was watched by over 500,000 viewers.

Keynote speakers included Keith Block, President and Vice Chairman Salesforce, Parker Harris, Co-Founder Salesforce, with special performances by Tatsuya Tatsuya,a celebrated Japanese musician, and Konishiki, a former Sumo wrestler. There was also a special presentation on the second day by Professor Shinya Yamanaka of Kyoto University who was awarded the 2012 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine.

A branded exhibition hall was again featured this year at the Prince Park Hotel with displays by partner companies. The Toranomon Hills Forum served as a focal area where Marketing and Developer experts converged for detailed sessions and hands on demonstrations.

Empire’s Tokyo-based Asia division, working closely with Salesforce's Japan and US teams and Salesforce's agency, was responsible for the event's design, production, and direction.

Empire once again proved to be the leading producer of global conferences and events in the Asian region and is proud to be the partner of choice for this and many other such global premier events.

Fast-growing sleep startup Casper approached Empire to assist them with their latest marketing activation, The Nap Tour. To showcase their award-winning mattress while providing naps to those in need of rest, Casper built a custom trailer called the “Napmobile", complete with four luxurious sleep pods, each containing a Casper mattress, dimmable lighting, privacy shades and recorded bedtime stories. The Napmobile made stops between September and November in seven major cities: Boston, New York, Washington D.C., Philadelphia, Nashville, Atlanta, and Miami.

Empire took the lead on identifying the locations for each city and executing all strategic scouting and permitting logistics. For such a unique activation with a sizeable footprint, there was considerably planning involved in accommodating space for the installation, while capturing high foot traffic appropriate to their target demographic. Empire's scope of work ranged from preparing multiple location options with Casper prior to tour to the execution of all required permits, security, insurance and logistic considerations for load-in/load-out. Locations were unique to each city and examples span from renting out private parking lots in Boston and Philadelphia; obtaining city permits for public parks and plazas in New York and D.C.; contracting private empty lots in Williamsburg and Miami; and participating as a vendor at the Atlanta Arts Festival.

During the Nap Tour, the campaign gained more attention than we had expected from local passersby in each city as well as from those following Casper on social media. Each activation day saw an average of 300 - 400 nappers in addition to multiple indirect impressions. The program was also picked up by local press outlets covering the eye-catching installations.

Empire is proud to serve leading brands with innovative event marketing activities and branded installations in the U.S. and around the world.

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The Coalition for the Homeless has been working tirelessly for over three decades to provide aid to homeless and at-risk New Yorkers. More than 3,500 men, women and children receive assistance each day through the Coalition’s direct initiatives, which include providing housing, emergency food & clothing, crisis services, job training and special programs for kids such as Camp Homeward Bound.

On Tuesday, November 17, 2015, the Coalition for the Homeless hosted their 21st annual ARTWALK NY, bringing together more than 800 Coalition supporters, artists, collectors, art-lovers and celebrities in the Flatiron’s Metropolitan Pavilion for an evening of festivities including a live and silent auction of over 100 pieces of donated contemporary art.

For the sixth consecutive year, Empire Entertainment served as overall producer of ARTWALK NY. Artists Patricia Cronin and Deborah Kass were honored for their contribution to contemporary art, and Richard Gere and Alec and Hilaria Baldwin were honored for their continuous philanthropic support of the Coalition over the years.

To the delight of the partygoers, the evening’s program started off with a bang when Alec Baldwin jumped onstage to offer up Richard Gere as the first “item” for sale starting at a mere $50,000. Later, when the real live auction began, Sotheby’s Aileen Agopian auctioned off a stunningly curated selection of art pieces donated by some of the world’s most celebrated artists, including Jenny Holzer, Deb Kass, Glenn Ligon, Ed Ruscha, Patricia Cronin and Andy Warhol.

The evening, generously sponsored by Tiffany & Co., began with hors d’oeuvres by Pinch Food Design and libations graciously provided by VDKA 6100 Peroni, Slope Cellars and Grace Hightower and Coffees of Rwanda. Several of New York’s best restaurants, including Michael’s, The National, Palma, The Odeon, Tijuana Picnic and David Burke Kitchen provided tasting stations.

Throughout the night, guests bid on and purchased works from established and emerging artists while grooving to tunes spun by DJ May Kwok.

Working closely with Coalition for the Homeless’ events team and title sponsor Tiffany & Co., Empire Entertainment served as executive producer of the event and was responsible for aspects ranging from event design, layout, production and logistics to décor and restaurant coordination.

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

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Under the sponsorship of the Cabinet Office of Japan,the Cyber³ Conference Okinawa 2015 was held on November 7-8, 2015. Aspart of this event, host venue of the G8 2000 Okinawa Summit, The Busena Terrace, hosted the Cool Japan Dinner, during which enra gave a magnificent performance for theGovernor of Okinawa Prefecture as well as 300 other leaders in politics,business, society, and media from throughout Japan and around the world.

With enra’s experience performing at the PrimeMinister’s Official Welcome Dinner for International Olympic Committee representativesduring the Tokyo 2020 Evaluation Commission Visit in March 2013, the CabinetOffice wanted to book enra again, and with their enthusiastic interest, we madeit happen.

Leading up to this event, Empire worked closely withenra’s creative director on the details of the show and to make it asuccess that the Japanese government would be proud to show the world. Inresponse, the distinguished guests from all over the world that saw enra livein Okinawa filled the venue with thunderous applause.

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Empire recently worked with Fitch Ratings to present the third edition of the Why? Forum, an exclusive thought leadership forum. This year’s Why? Forum focused on emerging markets, featured presenters such as Dr. Condoleezza Rice and Fareed Zakaria, and took place at the new Whitney Museum of American Art in New York City. As with past Why? Forum events in New York and London, this year’s Why? Forum explored the ‘reasons behind the rating’, focusing on emerging markets, the global economy and investment risks and opportunities around the world.

Empire worked closely with Fitch and its branding firm Addison to design the insightful and engaging stage program and to the transform the minimalist space into a Fitch-branded environment.

Fitch Group CEO Paul Taylor kicked off the Forum welcoming guests and introducing the afternoon’s Leader Panel. Moderated by renowned journalist Dr. Fareed Zakaria, the informative and riveting panel also featured economist Austan Goolsbee, Retired Citigroup Vice Chairman Bill Rhodes and Fitch Rating’s James McCormack. Topics ranged from income inequality and anticipated Federal Reserve and Central Bank moves, to the Trans-Pacific Partnership and changing demographics.

Following an audience Q&A with the Leader Panel, Paul Taylor returned to the stage to introduce the afternoon’s keynote speaker, former Secretary of State Dr. Condoleezza Rice. Dr. Rice covered subjects including U.S. immigration policy, the Middle East, Russia and China. Afterward, Dr. Zakaria returned to the stage to lead a candid conversation with Dr. Rice.

At the conclusion of the stage program, Nate Silver, founder of the website FiveThirtyEight, gave a brief presentation recapping the prior night’s elections and forecasting the upcoming 2016 Presidential Elections. In summary, don’t always trust the polls.

For this unique program, Empire served as overall producer, helping to secure the keynote speaker and panelists, handling all technical production, scenic and staging, catering, and guest logistics. Empire also worked to negotiate approvals for the use of footage, photos, digital and social media content for press and web purposes.

To learn more about this innovative series, check out the Why? Forum website at www.whyforum.com

On November 5, 2015, Empire Entertainment once again served as producer for Keep a Child Alive’s Black Ball at the Hammerstein Ballroom in New York City. Generously sponsored by Jynwel Charitable Foundation Limited, Microsoft and Givenchy Parfums, this year’s 12th annual Black Ball featured extraordinary performances by Alicia Keys, Lenny Kravitz, Wale and LION BABE and was emceed by comedian, actor and director, Chris Rock.

Hosted by Keep a Child Alive’s co-founder and 15 time Grammy Award-winning artist, Alicia Keys, who was joined by close friend and comedian, Chris Rock, who served as emcee, keeping everyone in stitches throughout the program. “It’s the funniest I’ve seen him. You can definitely tell he’s prepping for those Oscars,” said one guest of Rock, who has been named to host the Academy Awards on Feb. 28, 2016.

The Black Ball was once again designed by Creative Director Earle Sebastian, who chose an Afrofuturism theme for this year’s elegant cocktails, dinner and stage design. Design elements included a kinetic soft wall that undulated to a series of oscillating fans and a neon-lit Soweto Sound System created with New York-based design studio Mogollon.

A proud Alicia Keys and Keep a Child Alive CEO, Peter Twyman, took the stage early in the evening to deliver inspiring remarks about the power and potential of young people living with HIV and an impassioned plea for support.

This year’s Black Ball honored Patrice Motsepe and Dr. Precious Moloi-Motsepe, individuals who are transforming African communities by addressing issues of social and economic inequality and envisioning a future when all Africans can realize their full potential.

A star-studded guest list of over 700 came out to support Keep a Child Alive’s mission with guests including Clive Davis, Gayle King, Tyson Beckford, Carmelo Anthony, Lewis Hamilton, Nigel Barker, Padma Lakshmi, and Mr. Brainwash.

Guests dined on a delicious dinner designed by guest chef Marcus Samuelsson and catered by Creative Edge. This year’s Black Ball raised $3.8 million dollars through table/ticket sales, sponsorships, donations, pledges and a live auction hosted by CK Swett. The live auction featured a selfie with Chris Rock, a visit to the set of Fox’s hit TV show, Empire, an extremely rare hand-crafted bottle of Rémy Martin’s Louis XIII Cognac, and an original painting by Kehinde Wiley. The Black Ball has raised over $28 million since its humble beginnings in 2004.

After the auction Alicia Keys and her band put on an electrifying concert performance that, true to Black Ball tradition, featured several amazing musical guests.

Neo-soul duo LION BABE joined Keys to open the concert with an old school classic, “Tell Me Something Good.” Rapper Wale then came out to perform “Lotus Flower Bomb,” segueing into a duet with Keys on “What You Won’t Do for Love.”

Grammy Award-winning rocker Lenny Kravitz took the stage next, pumping up the crowd with “Let Love Rule,” “American Woman” and “Are You Gonna Go My Way?”

Moments after the concert ended, Swizz Beatz and DJ Runna took to the stage to DJ the Afterglow party, keeping all the guests dancing into the early hours of the morning.

Empire has been proud to serve as the Producer of the Black Ball since its inception in 2004 and to partner with Keep a Child Alive and Alicia Keys to grow it into one of New York’s most anticipated, annual fundraising events.

To learn more about Keep a Child Alive and support their mission, please visit www.keepachildalive.org. #KCABlackBall

A leading technology company hosted its premierevent for developers around the world at Spring Studios in New York City with asimultaneous live broadcast online reaching over 340,000. A platform forannouncements about the future of its tools and services in the DevOps era, theevent generated unprecedented engagement from the developer and IT communitiesworldwide.

Spring Studios, a photo studio and recent additionto NYC’s trendy Tribeca neighborhood with a modern design and 22’ floor-to-ceilingwindows overlooking the Hudson River, provided the perfect setting for an eventdedicated to vision, collaboration and the boundless possibilities of the cloud.

To balance the sun-filled window backdrop with theneed to beautifully illustrate data-driven content, three large-scale,high resolution LED screens were custom-built to fit within the existing windowframes. This view was then “extended” along the sides of the room with large-scaleNew York City-scapes encased in custom-built plexi panels, echoing the windowframes. This design delivered the visual wow! factor required while alsoensuring the data-driven content was presented with uncompromised clarity.

The visual aesthetic and brand messaging wereintegrated into every aspect of the event. Guests received their first taste oftechnological innovation at registration, where an animated floor of LED tiles welcomedguests to the event. The lunch space décor echoed the keynote walls, with asuspended plexiglass panel installation that spanned the length of the room. Afternoonbreakout sessions offered custom content tracked to attendees’ variedinterests and needs, and “Inspiration Stations,” located throughout the eventspace showcased insights into how the company’s partners and clients are using theirproducts in real-life applications.

A live production studio built on site streamed theKeynote event as well as post-interviews and discussions to the global online developercommunity.

From registration, breakfast and keynote to lunchand evening cocktails, every element of this program was custom-designed tocommunicate exacting brand values and messaging and to deliver a high-touchguest experience.

Empire is a leading producer of conferences and top-tier B-to-B eventsworldwide.

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The acclaimed American Museum of Natural History in New York City seemed the only appropriate backdrop for this celebratory event in which the world’s largest private equity firm marked its 30th Anniversary.

Over 1,500 employees came together in the famed Milstein Hall of Ocean Life (more commonly known as the Whale Room) to memorialize their accomplishments with a custom-created menu and bar experience, an energetic DJ and an interactive photo booth, always a guest favorite. The room was transformed by custom floor-to-ceiling branded banners and backdrops highlighting the company’s achievements thus far. Soaring floral arrangements, reflective linens and sleek furniture fit perfectly with the water-themed space.

In keeping with the light mood of the fete, the company’s Founder and CEO took the “world’s largest selfie” during his stage remarks, capturing an image of all of the employees with his beloved flip phone (aided by cutting-edge technology that actually captured a 360° image of the entire room by piecing together live and pre-captured shots). The image was immediately projected on large screens in the space, prompting amusement from the crowd about their not-so-tech savvy leader.

After the remarks and just as the festivities were ramping up, the top 75 partners and advisers in the firm, accompanied by their spouses, quietly headed upstairs to the Theodore Roosevelt Rotunda (also known as the “Dinosaur Room”) for an elegant and intimate seated dinner. Once the filet mignon and desserts (customized with chocolate-sauce written notes) were enjoyed, it was time to dance! Guests enjoyed a live band while taking in the elegant décor, including soft lighting highlighting the existing architecture as well as the refined florals, linens, and lounge furniture.

The custom evening was one to remember, fit only for a firm that is one of the fastest-growing in its industry and managing over $365 billion in assets.

In October 2015, for the third consecutive year, Empireproduced the Lowline Anti-Gala to help raise funds surrounding the project’sgoal to create the world’s first underground park in New York City’s historicLower East Side.

Upon its completion, the Lowline will completely transforman abandoned trolley terminal below Manhattan’s Delancey Street into a fullyfunctioning, public green space. Through next-generation solar technology, theLowline plans to redirect natural sunlight underground to enablephotosynthesis, thus creating and sustaining plant life under the bustling streetsof New York.

This year’s Anti-Gala, the organization’s annual fundraisingevent, came on the heels of the major opening of the project’s newestdevelopment; the Lowline Lab. Funded by a successful Kickstarter campaign thatraised over $200,000 from thousands of donors, the Lab operates as a workingprototype and technological showcase that is open to the public until March2016. There, guests can learn about the innovative technology that will light theLowline, and get a glimpse of what it will feel like to be within anunderground oasis.

To celebrate the Lowline Lab’s inaugural weekend, Empire workedclosely with them to conceptualize a ‘Building the Lowline’ construction theme,taking place inside the historic Angel Orensanz synagogue. This was completewith “construction workers” dressed as if on a job site, using flashlights tocheck out the area and directing guests as if on an actual construction site.The menu was handcrafted in the style of a construction worker’s diet, with guests noshing onpotato samosas, kebabs, hot dogs and even pigeon cooked “under a brick”created by Chef Gabrielle Hamilton and Neuman’s Catering. Furthermore, thecenterpieces were made out of cinderblocks and bars were constructed with herb garden-covered palettes used for specialty cocktails.

Throughout the evening, remarks were delivered by co-foundersDaniel Barasch and James Ramsey; while Lowline supporters Josh Sirefman and NewYork State Senator Daniel Squadron introduced this year’s honorees,Councilwomen Margaret Chin, and Board Chair, David Barry.

Notable attendees at this year’s gala included artist TomSachs, filmmakers Spike Jonze, Megan Ellison and actresses Laura Prepon andRose McGowan. To close out the evening, renowned DJ duo The Misshapes took tothe stage to spin a great mix of music that kept everyone around for a livelyafterglow.

Empire is proud to serve as the Lowline’s producers for theirannual event, creating a custom-themed event to reflect the organization’svision of creating the world’s first underground park.

To learn more about the Lowline, visit www.thelowline.org.

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In our first collaboration with Chicago-based ContextMedia, Empire produced a very successful and high-energy cocktail reception at the newly opened One World Trade Center, the tallest building in the Western hemisphere. With soaring panoramic views of New York City, guests mingled and danced while engaging with ContextMedia’s technology platforms throughout the space. We effectively utilized a panoramic-shaped venue to keep guests involved in every part of the space and turned an average Wednesday night into a bumping dance party.

ContextMedia is a health information services company, building digital media technologies to deliver lifestyle education to patients to improve health outcomes. The company empowers healthcare professionals to engage patients while curating content personalized for each member office. It is the fastest growing company in the industry impacting over ten million patient visits each month.

This event was meant to engage their New York City-based clients and introduce them to ContextMedia’s technologies in a fun and accessible setting. Upon reaching the 102^nd floor, guests were welcomed with themed cocktails, buffet-style stations and impressive and creative hors d’oeuvres.

As guests entered the room, they were greeted with an interactive wall of screens. Built specifically for this event, the wall allowed guests to see the technology first hand and customize their experience. Smaller interactive screens were also placed throughout the space to allow guests to engage with the product.

Entertainment began with DJ Irie getting everyone out on the dance floor and the event really hit its stride when Questlove took the stage. He is best known as the drummer and front-man for the Grammy-winning band The Roots, the in-house band for The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. He has produced for artists including Elvis Costello, Common, Jill Scott, Erykah Badu, Bilal, Jay-Z, Nikka Costa, Al Green and John Legend.

The photo booth was also a big hit throughout the night as guests incorporated our fun props and costume pieces into their pictures.

Empire is proud to produce conferences and events for some of the world's leading healthcare and technology companies.

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After receivingfive standing ovations in five shows, enra has closed the curtain on asuccessful first US Tour. With five unique venues in five cities, five publicperformances, and five unique audiences, enra earned glowing reviews for theperformances and received numerous invitations to return. Presenters andaudiences alike praised enra, and American audiences in Birmingham,Memphis, Knoxville, Durango, and Detroit roseto their feet to shower the group with applause.

Monthsof careful preparation went in to producing enra’s longest tour to date. Fromsecuring visas and tax documents for the group members with an eye for futureprojects, detailed advance planning, to arranging expert in-personmanagement on the ground, Empire was there at every stage to ensure that thetour would not only go smoothly but also be a success for everyoneinvolved.

enra’smembers received a warm welcome everywhere they went and performed inbeautiful venues. "That was amazing!" was the general reaction from enthusiastic crowds. The tour also included three separate educationalevents for local students who were thrilled have a rare chance to learn fromenra’s multi-talented expertise.

Markedby its financial success, technical perfection, resourceful management, andthrillingly positive audience response, the tour was a total victory for enraand for Empire. We extend our deepest thanks to the supporters of enra andeveryone that made it possible.

On Saturday, October 17, 2015, Empire produced About.com’s Expert Conference for the third consecutive year at the IAC Building in NYC.

The conference gathers together hundreds of About.com’s experts - - the writers who deliver the content on the site, on topics ranging from travel, health, and tech, to sandwiches, etiquette, and women’s hairstyles. The site is visited each month by approximately 90 million users.

CEO Neil Vogel impressed the experts once again with his no-nonsense, cut-to-the-chase manner of addressing all issues head-on. External speakers this year included Joy Bauer, nutrition expert for the Today show, and Brian Stelter, Senior Media Correspondent for CNN. Presenters made good use of the fantastic, and enormous high-resolution video wall at the IAC Building (120’ Wide x 11’ High), including powerful and eye-catching content throughout the day.

Following several presentations in the main theater area, guests then broke into three separate groups for more intimate and interactive breakout sessions. Attendees also enjoyed breakfast and lunch breaks catered by Abigail Kirsch.

Empire managed all aspects of the About.com conference, providing stage management, registration, TPA procurement, technical direction, catering management, décor, and more. Empire is proud to produce business conferences for some of the world's leading technology companies.

Every five years, this cutting-edge company hosts a multi-day event that includes a major product andinnovation exhibition at the Jacob Javits Center, keynote remarksfrom its worldwide Chairman & CEO, and a gala dinner for over 1,000 of itstop customers and business partners at the New York Marriott Marquis in the heart of Times Square.

This year, Empire was challenged to create a Gala evening based on the client's theme of new impossible innovations and to produce the keynote session justhours earlier in the Broadway Ballroom of the New York Marriott Marquis.

Empire’s solution, developedover the course of many months of collaboration, was to create an evening that fused performances andsurround projection technology to take the audience on an impossible journey: travelingthrough time to experience Times Square in the past, present and future. Eachera would be represented with a live performance segment that reflected itsculture, music, imagery, energy and technology.

Following the afternoon’sflawless keynote address by the company's Chairman & CEO, Empirequickly transformed the ballroom into an elegant gala environment, surroundingthe room with over 300 feet of HD projection surfaces and replacing the theaterseating with black dining tables adorned with a red glass cubes.

Following a welcome by host andemcee James Donahower, he introduced the concept of time travel through Times Square. Asurround projection environment of an animated Times Square of the 1920s, completewith sound effects, was dramatically revealed to the audience.

Then, as jazz music began toplay, a spotlight illuminated a single point on stage as a female jazzsaxophone player, Chelsea Baratz, soloed the sounds of Summertime as the billboards slowly flickeredaround her. Next the music shifted to anupbeat rendition of the Charleston and a cast of 1920s-attired flappers enteredto dance the steps of the jazz age. As the performance built in energy, thedynamic tap dance duo of Grimes & Fleming performed their fast-movingtandem tap routine as a finalé of film footage of dancers andwater fountains was projected on all screens. At the end of the1920s/1930s performance and as guests enjoyed their dinner, the animated skyscape of Times Square returned to thescreens and slowly evolved to 1950s to a soundtrack from those years.

After dinner, the emcee returned to set up thenext segment, highlighting some of the major technological and cultural changesof the 1950s and 1960s. As he finished his remarks, the sounds of the Drifter’s1964 hit Under the Boardwalk beganto play as doo wop a capella group the Tee Tones appeared on stage. Next up thescreens shifted to reflect the Broadway show marquees of the time as vocalistsand a cast of costumed dancers entered to perform selections from Pippin (Magic To Do) and Hair: the Musical (Age of Aquarius) as the screens projectedanimations of the 1960s Flower Power movement. In the finale for thissegment, a solo vocalist performed Louis Armstrong’s What a Wonderful World as the Times Square screens recreated thelive broadcast of the first manned lunar landing.

Following dessert service, the emcee took thestage one final time, setting up the Times Square of the future. Thisperformance began with vocalist Kelly Levesque singing an original compositionentitled Future Mood surrounded byan HD projection of the earthrise from space. Next up, violinist Sarina Sunoperformed a fast-paced classical electronica piece as the animated screencontent reacted to the sounds of her LED-lit, electronic violin. As a fittingconclusion to the evening, Levesque took the stage again to perform Love Can Move Mountains and Reach. This time, Kelly wore a floor-length gown covered with hundreds of mirror tiles as she was lit by a seriesof carefully placed lasers in a hazed room, creating the effect of a halo oflaser beams in all directions. Many of the audience members reached for theirphones to photograph the spectacular finalé.

The client was delighted with the outcome ofthe evening, and this original production entertained this highly critical audience.

To create this one-of-a-kind, once-in-a-lifetimejourney through performance, Empire worked with a wide variety of creative,scenic, talent, music and technical partners that included LIVE LAB and manyothers.

Empire is one of the world’s leading creatorsand producers of original live media and events on behalf of leading corporation andbrands.

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When one of the world's leading insurance companies hosted an incentive program in Crete in September 2015, they planned a fantastic evening outdoors, themed around the feel-good movie "My Big Fat Greek Wedding" and they came to Empire for the entertainment that would fit the theme. While ABBA has been defunct for decades, Empire recommended and contracted the next best thing: Bjorn Again, the ABBA tribute band. Dressed head-to-toe in costuming that helped define the original band, the group had the attendees on their feet performing classics such as "Dancing Queen" and "Waterloo". On a raised stage with the Mediterranean Sea and the stars as their backdrop, the band was a highlight of a fantastic event.

Empire is proud to consistently be able to recommend entertainers who fit our clients' event themes, as well as their budgets, and to have presented headline performers in over 40 countries around the globe.

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​Empire produced a business conference and farewell dinner for over 500 guests for a leading Japanese healthcare company in Dubai. The company was visiting Dubai to hold an incentive tour for top sales employees over a period of several days. Guests had a chance to enjoy a wide range of activities including a deep look into the local Arabian culture with camel tours into the desert.

Empire worked closely with a local agency to make this event happen over a two day period. During the first day a business conference was held where next year’s goals were announced and action plans for the upcoming year were laid down. The challenge was that the venue needed to be transformed from a business conference venue to a gorgeous farewell dinner venue in just one day. A larger stage and extravagant light fixtures needed to be placed with all settings from the previous night readjusted to a party atmosphere.

The farewell party included a dance performance, where company staff members reenacted a popular performance of the popular Japanese vocal group Exile on stage. The Empire team put together a full lighting system which transformed the venue into a concert hall bringing everyone to their feet. We also produced a fashion show as part of the evening festivities, which had over 20 models, once again done by company employees.

Empire’s success in Dubai showcased yet again our ability to produce the highest quality events anywhere in the world.

With the 75^th Anniversary of the brand rightaround the corner, Coach wanted to showcase their first runway collection forNew York SS16 Fashion week in an impactful and memorable way.

Empire was engaged by Coach and KCD Worldwide, the leadingfashion public relations and production agency, to lend expertise inpermitting, labor & union relations, and site-specific logistical planningand management. Empire and KCD worked in close collaboration with Coach overseveral months to select and secure the site, design a plan and make theproduction a reality.

The decision was made to bring the show home – to the futuresite of the new Coach headquarters currently being built at 30th Street and 11th Avenue in the new Hudson Yards development. A large, openconcrete rooftop, located adjacent to the High Line and just a short walk fromthe new Coach tower, proved to be the ideal location to build an event spacethat would impress audiences and blend seamlessly into the natural beauty ofthe High Line.

Construction, tenting, scenic and technical teams workednon-stop for almost a month to construct a beautiful two-story glass box tent. The Friends of the Highline andthe NYC Parks Department granted Coach permission to use the High Line as aguest entryway and a one-of-a kind, one-day only bridge was built to facilitatedirect access to the tent from the High Line.

Empire also worked to develop a unique guest entry plan. A nearbylot was transformed into a Coach-branded drop off point where high-profileattendees were chauffeuredto the show in special Coach taxis. Guests strolled along the High Line andtook in the view of the enormous glass tent in the Fall afternoon sun. After making their way inside, guests weregreeted with scenic elements designed by Stefan Beckman to bring the windswept Americanprairie feel of the High Line indoors. Guests walked over the mirrored runway and took their seats on amulti-level wooden polygon bleacher built into the center of the tent,surrounding by planters and greenery that perfectly matched the look and feelof the High Line.

Over 500 guests attended the nine minute long show includingAnna Wintour, Chloe Grace Moretz, Mariel Hemingway, and numerous fashion buyers,members of the media and tastemakers and celebrities from around the world. The collection, largely centered onmulti-colored floral patchwork dresses inspired by designer Stuart Veversvision of a wardrobe for “a magpie girl who goes onroad trips, picking up Western things, but who also might steal from hergranny’s closet on the Upper East Side". Nearly 40 models showcased almost 50 different looks styledby Karl Templer to a soundtrack DJ’d live by Steve Mackey.

Voguecalled the Coach show one of the New York Fashion Week’s best shows.

The completeshow can be viewed at: http://www.coach.com/shop/womens-spring-2016

​Looking to have the Season 2 premiere of the hit TV show EMPIRE match the energy and grandeur of its enormous fan base, FOX knew the event needed to take place in New York City.

The renowned Carnegie Hall was perfect venue for the premiere, lending a juxtaposition between the elegant and classic musical landmark and the current pop culture and hip hop theme of the show.

Because of the enormous popularity of the show, a 100’ long press wall, tent, and gold carpet were installed on 7th Avenue, allowing the large cast their own moments to shine. The carpet was well-attended, with appearances by show creator Lee Daniels, and cast members including Terrence Howard, Taraji P. Henson, Trai Byers, Jussie Smollett, and Gabourey Sidibe, as well as other celebs including Mariah Carey, Rosie O’Donnell, Gail King, and Naomi Campbell.

Following the carpet, 2,500 lucky fans enjoyed an advanced screening of the highly-anticipated first episode of Season 2 followed by a live Q&A session with all of the cast. Rounding out the stage presentation were energetic performances by cast members Jussie Smollett (Jamal Lyon), Bryshere Gray (Hakeem Lyon), and Serayah (Tiana Brown). Fans at home were able to watch a live broadcast of both the Q&A and performances.

After the screening, 450 guests including cast, FOX executives, and sponsors from Lincoln and Pepsi moved upstairs to the recently opened Weill Terrace Room to celebrate the success of another season. Located on the 9th and 10th floors of Carnegie Hall, the after party offered sweeping views of midtown New York, which guests enjoyed while lounging on furniture designed to recreate an elegant yet homey living room. A warm gray and neutral palette was accented by candles and florals in deep greens, creams, and browns.

Heard over the excited chatter, DJ Natasha Diggs got the crowd dancing on the 10th Floor while a playlist curated by Lee Daniels kept the party going on the 9th Floor. Comfort food and cocktails were provided by Stephen STARR Catering and was rounded out with birthday cake for Taraji P. Henson.

Empire is honored to continue our long-standing working relationship with the FOX Broadcasting team and look forward to supporting more upcoming events.

On September 17, 2015, Empire was honored to serve as theproducers of the star-studded, 14^th annual Samsung Hope for ChildrenGala, which took place within the Grand Ballroom and the Hammerstein Ballroomat the Manhattan Center in New York City. The Hope for Children Gala is Samsung’s principal cause-marketingevent dedicated to supporting children’s health, education, and sustainability.

The evening kicked off with a star-studded blue carpet, packedwith celebrities and athletes including Demi Lovato, Mark Messier, TaraLipinski, Tony Bennett, Henrick Lundqvist, Katrina Bowden, Dascha Polanco, JimGaffigan, and Meredith Viera.

Once inside, the 700 guests were invited to enjoy a cocktailreception in the Grand Ballroom, which featured interactive elements for theguests to enjoy, along with a large-scale orchid chandelier display over acenter bar. Following cocktails,guests were invited into the Manhattan Center for dinner. On their way in, theywere treated to another impressive floral display featuring thousands of callalilies blanketing the ceiling

The seated dinner program featured many participants andperformers including emcee, Josh Lucas, Students from Exploringthe Arts Frank Sinatra School inBrooklyn, The Roots, Rob Thomas, Ingrid Michaelson, Boomer Esiason, NickCannon, Demi Lovato, President and CEO of Samsung Electronics North America,Gregory Lee, and President & COO of Samsung Electronics America, Timothy Baxter.The centerpiece of the evening’s program was Ben Stiller presenting Samsung’sChampion of Hope Award to Brad Pitt and the Make it Right Foundation for theirwork rebuilding New Orleans' Lower 9^th Ward after hurricaneKatrina.

While the Gala took place downstairs, for the first timeever, Samsung invited Galaxy Owners to attend a pre-reception in the GrandBallroom, where they interacted with the latest Galaxy devices and had thechance to win a variety of prizes. Guests enjoyed refreshments, music curatedby DJ Nick Cannon and anexclusive live performance by electro-pop duoIcona Pop that was broadcast live to YouTube via the GalaxyNote5. Following the pre-reception, consumers joined Gala guests in theHammerstein Ballroom for Demi Lovato’s memorableperformance.

The Samsung Hope for Children Gala raised a record $2 million. This included over $80,000 from the Silent Auction,Text to Donate, Blue Box Raffle and Charity Buzz. Charity Partners included the Boomer Esiason Foundation, Christopher& Dana Reeve Foundation, Exploring the Arts, Make It Right, Many Hopes, OnlyMake Believe, Sidewalk Angels, Staten Island Museum Foundation, StillerFoundation, and the United States Olympic Committee.

Empire was proud to work closely with the Samsung team todeliver a flawless evening for such a worthy cause. To learn more aboutSamsung’s Hope for Children visit http://www.samsung.com/us/hopeforchildren/

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