​Initiated by philanthropist and business woman Shari Arison of the Ted Arison Family Foundation in Israel over 10 year sago, Good Deeds Day has grown into a global movement of doing good and the power of doing good deeds. For this years 10^th anniversary event, Empire was engaged to manage partnership and sponsorship development in North America as well as to produce the national flagship event at Herald Square, directly in front of corporate partner, Macy’s.

The flagship event took the form of a street fair at which 20 not-for-profit organizations and corporate partners hosted good deed-related activities on site. Each participating organization was given its own tented space with tables, chairs, and uniform signage in which each organization offered a different participatory good deed. Jessica Seinfeld’s GOOD + Foundation hosted a sorting and bundling clothing project where participants created wardrobe packets for children of families in need. Stand with Us partnered with the Israeli Consulate and made sandwiches that were delivered to a nearby homeless shelter.The event also featured a steady stream of speakers and performances on a main stage throughout the day. David Arison, head of global relations for the Arison group, kicked off the day encouraging everyone to participate and do a good deed, no matter how big or small. Actor, musician, and environmental activist Adrian Grenier spoke about Mobile Kitchen Classroom, an organization that empowers high school students to actively contribute to the creation of a healthy and sustainable food culture. New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio also stopped by to take photos and show his support for the 10^th anniversary events.

As the day progressed, emcee James Donahower kept stage programming light and engaging, while highlighting each not-for-profit and corporate partner and driving home the purpose of the day. The all-day event also featured performances by Jessica Sweetman, Judah Friedlander, Harlem Samba, and more. DJ Beco Dranoff kept the energy up in the crowd between performances and during activities. Empire delivered several sponsors including Macy’s, Scholastic Book Fairs, KINDSnacks, and VH1 Save the Music Foundation, who were on site with innovative activities to offer to participants. More than 33,000 schools nationwide hosted Scholastic book fairs good deed initiatives throughout the months of April and May, 500 children’s books were donated on site at the NY event by Scholastic to encourage people to host read aloud, KIND hosted a guided meditation and shared Kind products as well as hosting a KIND wall of good thoughts, while VH1 brought music instruments for people to practice and play on. The NYPD estimated that the Good Deeds Day Flagship event hosted more than 8,000 people, with many more stopping by to snap a photo and upload their post to social media. Additionally, Empire supported social media marketing efforts, engaging influencers like Bill Gates who tweeted about Good Deeds on the day.  

In addition to strategic partnership and sponsorship development throughout the year, Empire was responsible for the design and execution of the street fair event, including securing Herald Square, providing all tenting, staging and production, security, staffing, on site management, and talent coordination. Empire also worked with reelworks.org, a youth filmmaking charity, and the Good Deeds Day team to create a North American public service announcement (PSA) that ran on partner websites and on Jewish Broadcast Service.  

Good Deeds Day’s 10^th anniversary brought more New Yorkers to participate than ever before and Empire is proud to have had the opportunity to produce this milestone event.

Check out the highlights video, produced by reelworks.org at:

https://app.frame.io/f/XDYNEp5j

To learn more about Good Deeds Day or to get involved in 2017 plans, please visit

www.gooddeedsday.org

Online mattress retailer, Casper, opened their first-ever pop-up shop on the “coolest block in America” on Abbot Kinney. The intimate shop offered curious customers the opportunity to test out the available online-only mattress and simultaneously provide insight into what a brick and mortar solution could look like for Casper.

An eye-catching mural on the front facade of the shop drew in local passers-by and also acted as a billboard on the popular Venice thoroughfare. As guests entered, they were greeted in the foyer by Casper staffers who scheduled 15-minute “naps” or trials for any interested customers and offered insight into Casper’s history, brand, and answered any questions. Guests were then invited to take a private nap on the Casper mattress in a custom-created canopy tent. Following the trial, guests were invited to a sunny patio space to relax and reflect on their experience and enjoy light refreshments.

The experiment was so successful that Casper extended the store’s run by 50%.

Visit here for more.

Working in tandem with the New Museum, Empire booked Shamir – a Las Vegas native with killer vocals that perfectly match this year’s theme – for this year's spring gala. Shamir delivered an electro-pop disco performance, including his hit single“Hot Mess.” He also exclusively debuted his unreleased track from his new album, “Demon”, and performed it for the very first time at the gala.

As for decor and dress, a rainbow ribbon installation hung above guests while bikes filled with larger-than-life, multicolored flowers paired for a vibrant cocktail hour. Spring Studios was buzzing with bright attire including multihued, patched suits, a couple of inventive wigs and hair extensions, and even a pair of curly rainbow horns.

DKNY served as the main sponsor for the gala, which raised $2 million for the museum. Following a live auction of paintings with Simon de Pury in all his glory, over $300,000 was raised.

Throughout the night, legendary DJ Stretch Armstrong kept guests entertained, including DKNY’s creative directors Maxwell Osborne and Dao-Yichow, Mia Moretti, Jeff Koons, Casey Fremont, Cynthia Rowley, Swizz Beats, Michael Stipe, Ugo Rondinone, John Giorno, and Massimiliano Gioni.

For this colorful engagement, we proudly served as entertainment producer, including talent buying, talent management, on-site management, and technical oversight. Now in our third consecutive year of producing this event, we are grateful that New Museum continues to choose to partner with us to deliver quality results.

To learn more orjoin, please visit http://www.newmuseum.org

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Hailed as the Oscars of social media, the Shorty Awards honor the best influencers, celebrities, and brands on popular social media platforms such as Snapchat, Periscope, Instagram, YouTube, Twitter, and more. The 8^th Annual Shorty Awards returned this year to The Times Center. Streaming live on YouTube to over 100,000 viewers, the event highlighted popular digital talent, animals, blogs, and content, alongside traditional celebrities.

Mamrie Hart, ranked #2 on Buzzfeed’s list of “10 YouTubers to Know,” hosted this year’s program, while Pitch Perfect 2’s Flula pumped up the show as the house DJ. Presenters ranged the gamut from internet stars such as Hannah Hart, Rhett & Link, Lele Pons, and Frankie Grande, to America’s favorite weatherman, Al Roker, Fuse TV’s Chris Gethard, and LMFAO’s Redfoo.

The competition was fierce this year with over 3.4 million votes, nearly double that of last year. Winners of the signature Shorty Awards Whale Tail included Jimmy Fallon, Misty Copeland, Katie Couric, Adele, Jiff Pom, Baddie Winkle, Lindsey Sterling, Kevin Hart, Hannah Hart, Casey Neistat, and Snapchatter of the Year – DJ Khaled. Not to mention Pizza Rat walking off with the Shorty Award for GIF of the Year.

International R&B sensation Nico & Vinz hit the stage for a special musical performance with their hit song, “Am I Wrong”, and new track from DJ Spinking “League of Your Own.” Once again, the entire program was simulcast to a separate viewing party downstairs where guests were able to network while enjoying the delicious caterings of Cleaver and Co, beer from Sixpoint, and signature cocktails in teal wax-dipped glasses from Maker’s Mark. Winners from this year’s brand and organization competition accepted their trophies on their very own stage where they were invited to record their acceptance speeches as well.

We’re proud to partner with The Shorty Awards for our second year and we wish a huge congratulation to all the influencer and brand winners this year!

WATCH THIS YEAR'S SHORTY AWARDS HERE.

​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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