On the first weekend of October, the New YorkTimes shared its love of food with New York City, launching the first ever NewYork Times Food Festival.

The New York Times partnered with Empire toproduce both a large public-facing festival in Bryant Park as well as two fulldays of live Talks programming at TheTimesCenter, uniting more than 20 exceptional chefs and restaurants, foodjournalists and experts with thousands of passionate foodies.

The Bryant Park component featuredrestaurants and chefs hand-chosen by New York Times editors Sam Sifton andChristine Muhlke including Frenchette, TAK Room, The Beatrice Inn, EmmySquared, Adda and more. All of the participating chefs sold items not availablein their restaurants, all inspired by classic New York City street food.

Saturday morning, The Park opened with aceremonial “noodle cutting” by Mayor Bill de Blasio and New YorkTimes CEO Mark Thompson on the Main Stage using an 18’ lasagna noodlein place of a traditional ribbon. The Park’s iconic fountain entrance revealeda playful, yet elevated food festival design with red patterns and clean, picnic-inspiredaccents. A substantial portion of the Park showcased curated restaurants andchefs to the public to allow for the community to experience the event.

In another portion of the Park attendees paidan admission to allow them access to food and beverage available for purchase. Insidethe ticketed area, more than 4,000 attendees over two full days foundthemselves in a food-lover’s paradise of reimagined street food.

The New York Times partnered with Farm toPeople to provide the Marketplace, a retail environment sellingartisanal food items and New York Times merchandise. Additional partners includedThe Best of Smorgasburg with seven of the Brooklyn institutions’sbest vendors and Ample Hills Creamery servingtheir new, exclusive Times-inspired ice cream, “The Flavor of Record”.

At the East end of the park, the NYT CookingStage hosted live cooking demos by Thomas Keller, Angie Mar, Alison Roman, MelissaClark, and many more. A smaller Workshop Pavilion featured specialty sessionsincluding aFall wine preview with Times wine critic Eric Asimov, mixology master classes presented by Tequila Don Julio, Bulleit,Tanqueray Gin & Johnnie Walker, and cake decorating classes by Instagramwunderkind Heber Clawson.

The main stage featured sets by DJs Coleman,Aaron DRM, Rich Medina and Natasha Diggs who kept the crowd dancing on thelawn, while custom modular seating supported by Uber Eats and picnic tablesgave the attendees a place to enjoy their food. Uber Eats also sponsored twoclever installations featuring bicycles and takeout boxes promoting their#LetsEat campaign.

Presentingsponsor MasterCard hosted a tent where card holders and attendees wereinvited to “Experience the Taste of Priceless,” enjoying custom macarons andcomplimentary sparkling wine pours. Their tent featured a gorgeous logoinstallation of illuminated florals for their #StartSomethingPricelessmessaging while elegant cutouts in the wall lit displays of the macarons infloral scenes of yellow and red, representing the Mastercard logo.

Just blocks away, The TimesCenter hosted two full days of live journalism, interviews, andbook signings in partnership with Kitchen Arts & Letters. Panel discussionsincluded Eating as a Living: Life of a Food Critic featuring FrankBruni, Ruth Reichl, Sam Sifton and Pete Wells from the New York Times and Bourdainand Beyond featuring Andrew Zimmern and Pati Jinich in conversation withKim Severson. Other participants included Massimo Bottura, David Chang andAction Bronson, among many others.

Downstairs at the TimesCenter, Johnnie Walkerand Bailey’s provided cocktail tastings and Guinness allowed attendees to“Personalize Your Pint” with custom-printed photos in the foam. REI invitedguests to customize their own trail mix.

For this first-time festival, Empire servedas overall producer of the outdoor festival and TimesCenter activations.Empire’s role included ideation, layout, design, tenting, permitting, security,staging & technical production, staffing, culinary integration, sponsorideation and activations, management of registration and operations of stagesand much, much more.

Empire is a leading producer of world classFestival and culinary events and we were honored to work with The New York Times Company to help produce this successful, first-everNew York Times Food Festival.

To learn more and sign up for information onnext year’s Festival visit https://www.nytfoodfestival.com

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The Hult Prize’s $1million check is the largest sum awarded to the winners of any social goodinnovation competition. This is because the solutions the Hult Prize funds areboth effective, and especially urgent. The competition, which is open tostudents around the world, encourages and energizes young entrepreneurs tobuild for-profit startups that focus on critical social challenges. To date, theHult Prize has engaged over one million students and deployed over $50 millionin capital to winning projects.

Each year, the HultPrize directs applicants, of which there may be as many as 50,000, to focus ona single, specific issue; in 2017, participants designed innovations to improvethe lives of at least 1 million refugees over the next five years, and thewinning proposal was an initiative to bring community transit hubs to refugeesettlements, solving for the significant mobility gap that migrants face.

The Hult Prize main eventtakes place inside the United Nations Headquarters, with the presentations bythe final six teams occurring in the ECOSOC chamber in the afternoon. Once thepresentations are complete, all the participants go upstairs to a reception inthe Delegate Dining Room, both inside and on the patio that overlooks the East riverwhile the judges are given 45 minutes to deliberate and select a winner. As inyears past, President Bill Clinton has joined them for a final briefing andthen he announces the winner from the stage. President Clinton will also announcethe next year’s challenge.

Empire’s team wasresponsible for all production support for the presentation and reception, venuemanagement, food & beverage, accommodations, credentialing, press support,set design, and graphics. We also coordinated with the UN broadcast office tohave the proceedings webcast.

To learn more about the Hult Prize, please visithttp://www.hultprize.org​

Following the immensely successful launch events and 12 city U.S. tour for Dartmouth College’s $3 billion capital campaign, The Call to Lead, Dartmouth’s leadership and Board of Trustees once again engaged Empire as their creative and production partner to take Dartmouth’s message worldwide with a series of Global Summits.

Alumni, family, and friends from Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA), gathered for Dartmouth’s first-ever Global Summit in London – a platform on which to claim Dartmouth’s pride of place in the global higher education landscape through increased brand awareness and institutional competitiveness, fostered by a highly enthusiastic, highly supportive international communities, including undergraduate alumni, graduate alumni and parents.​

The Global Summit weekend included three distinct events filled with learning, fun, and inspiration to celebrate Dartmouth’s 250th anniversary. Friday’s Welcome Reception showed that the “Big Green” had arrived in London. Held at The Shard, London’s tallest tower, the venue offered guests 360° views of the city and the iconic London landmarks, The Tower of London and the London Eye, which were lit in green light for the evening. At the Shard, guest enjoyed networking, cocktails and rekindled connections to Dartmouth’s five schools.

Saturday morning’s programming sessions brought guests “back-to-class” at the Institute of Technology & Engineering (IET Savoy) and fully immersed them in Dartmouth’s bold strategy and visions for its big bets on discovery. The lunch networking hour featured hosted table conversations and allowed for truly participatory engagement by all in attendance. Gail’s Bakery, owned by a recognized Dartmouth alumus, provided guests the opportunity to taste the best that London has to offer with a local connection to their Alma Mater.

The crowning jewel of the weekend was a spectacular celebration in one of London’s most historic venues, GuildHall, that fused Dartmouth’s rich history with forward-looking plans for its next 250 years. Students and faculty shared stories of collaboration that have led to world-changing impact spanning disciplines, generations and geographies. The evening included a surprise musical performance by the Dartmouth Idols paired with acapella group Anuna performing a 900 year-old Irish vocal tradition. The evening included stunning announcements of substantial support and donations by many generous alumni.

Between stage segments, meals were served with precision timing as guests were treated to a visual extravaganza of high resolution footage and imagery of the Dartmouth campus through the seasons.

The evening culminated with Laurel Richie, Board of Trustees Chair, recapping Dartmouth’s strategic priorities and energizing the crowd to act and answer The Call to Lead. At the conclusion of Richie’s remarks, guests moved into the afterparty, where Dartmouth’s Baker Tower, recreated with its spire glowing green, served as the centerpiece of the space. This striking scenic piece was surrounded by a variety of themed activities including a London phone box (recreated in green) and other social media activations.

Empire worked closely with several Dartmouth departments and teams, as well as faculty, students and volunteers, to plan and execute the first of these international events. Empire’s roles included concept & program development, venue acquisition, budgeting, registration, scripting, screen content production, technical production, catering, permitting, security, scenic, décor, staffing and guest logistics and experience.

Empire is a leading international producer of high-level events, both on and off campus, for many of the world’s leading educational institutions.

For more information on Dartmouth’s Campaign, visit https://calltolead.dartmouth.edu/about/dartmouth-250-global-summit

VIDEO CREDIT: Dartmouth MPG Team

Co-founded in 2017 by the Bill & Melinda GatesFoundation and Project Everyone, the Goalkeepers event takes place during theannual United Nations General Assembly in New York City and brings together Headsof State and international Sustainable Development Goals “Goalkeepers” (thosespearheading various missions in their local communities) alike. Among otherthemes, this year’s Goalkeepers focused on the challenge of fighting globalinequality.

Kicking off the two-day event, the 2019 Goalkeepers GlobalGoals Awards were presented at the Frederick P. Rose Hall at Jazz at LincolnCenter on September 24, 2019. The Awards program opened with an energetic dancenumber by “This is America” choreographer Sherrie Silver and performed by agroup of young dancers synchronized to original screen content.

Host Tumelo Mothotoane kept the program flowing as globalchangemakers were honored for their work. Award winners included African UnionYouth Envoy, Aya Chebbi, Child Rights advocate, Payal Jangid, mPharma founder, GregoryRockson, and Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, who was honored for hisprogressive sanitation work in India.

Award presenters included Bill Gates, Melinda Gates, UnitedNations Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed, and Executive Director of theUnited Nations Children’s Fund, Henrietta Fore. Simultaneous translation wasutilized to translate between Hindi and English to ensure the audience couldenjoy the entire program.

After the Goalkeepers Awards program guests entered theAtrium space overlooking Central Park to enjoy cocktails and custom food bars.Guests interacted with custom activations including an art installation made ofover 75,000 bottle tops, collected and painted by women in Salvador, Brazil,and an impressive 68’ long custom mirror wall, encouraging social sharing bythe guests to spread the word about their favorite goals.

The next morning, over 400 guests were welcomed back to the mainGoalkeepers event by a stunning multimedia vocal performance by Ogi Ifediora,performing to looped tracks of herself and screen content by renowned TreatmentStudios. Once inside the Appel Room, programming began with keynote remarks byNew Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Arden and Spanish Prime Minister PedroSanchez, followed by a seated conversation with both Prime Ministers along withBill & Melinda Gates.

Throughout the day other speakers delivered impactfulmessages, including Stanford Professor and Bias expert, Dr. Jennifer Eberhardt,Lydia Murithi, Dr. Joia Crear Perry (all in conversation with Melinda Gatesdiscussing bias), Aliko Dangote and Zouera Youssoufou (in conversation withBill Gates discussing ways to change the odds instead of evening the odds fortoday’s less fortunate, especially the children), as well as Richard Curtis,who spoke regarding the 2020 call to action.

Session moderators included Journalist and United NationsGoodwill Ambassador, James Chau (Bill Gates’s session) and British journalistand broadcaster Tulip Mazumdar (Melinda Gates’s session).

Providing even more of an audience reach this year, asegment of the program was filmed for the BBC World Debate. Moderated by ZeinabBedawi and featuring Mo Ibrahim, Sigrid Kaag, Kay James, and John Fugelsang whodiscussed inequality throughout the world. This segment wasbroadcast the following weekend on BBC.

Between and after content sessions and as breakfast, coffeebreaks, and lunch were enjoyed, guests were invited to experience activationsin the Atrium including the “Goalkeeper’s Library” where the titles from theGoalkeepers community were available for the guests to take. In addition to theLibrary, guests were able to select a #togetherband, allowing themto showcase their favorite goal in a fashionable way.

Empire was proud to work with the Bill & Melinda GatesFoundation, Project Everyone, and many other partners to present Goalkeepers2019.

To learn more about the Goalkeepers event, please visit: https://www.gatesfoundation.org/goalkeepers/

Additional information about the Sustainable DevelopmentGoals can be found here: https://sustainabledevelopment.un.org/?menu=1300

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The inaugural NYC VenuesNow Conference was held at theConrad Hotel downtown for over 600 attendees early September 2019. Oak View Group’s Media & Conferences divisionannually hosts the conference which provides a forum for leaders in the liveentertainment industry to discuss important trends and topics appearing in theVenuesNow magazine published by OVG. After two years in Los Angeles, theflagship event has moved to New York City.

The first day of the VenuesNowConference took place in the Gallery Ballroom and featured opening remarks byOVG Founders Tim Leiweke and Irving Azoff. Soon after, the all-star lineup ofspeakers would discuss key topics from Capital Ideasto Esports. James Dolan sat down with Irving Azoff to discuss business and MSG Co. and the program included panel discussions featuringNBA Commissioner Adam Silver, WNBA Commissioner Cathy Englebert and MLS CommissionerDon Garber.

Other notable speakers includedExecutive Vice President of MSG Live Darren Pfeffer, President of San Francisco49ers and Co-Managing Partner of Elevate Sports Ventures Al Guido, Director of Strategy for AT&T DaveMacdonald and many more. The first day of conferences concluded with anotheropening night cocktail reception in the Gallery Prefunction space &Northeast Gallery featuring DJ Monopoli.

The final day of the conferencetook place on 9/11, 18 years after the devastating tragedy. A beautiful floral installation honored those affected by theevents on 9/11 with a graphic wall featuring silhouettes of the twin towersbuilt out using white roses.

The opening topic, “NeverForget: How Sept. 11, 2001 Forever Changed Public Assembly,” featured ahighly qualified panel of safety experts who discussed exactly how publicsafety in this business has changed post-9/11. Light discussions followedthroughout the final day and attendees were encouraged to take roses providedto the 9/11 Memorial, just a short walk from thevenue.

The VenuesNow Conference connects leaders, influencers and visionariesin a variety of discussions and networking opportunities highlightingcomprehensive topics and the future of the industry. Empire was proud to serveas the overall producer for this event.​

Empire was honored to once again serve as Samsung’sproducer of the 18th annual Samsung Gives Charity Gala, which raises funds fora variety of social and charitable programs focused on helping youth buildbrighter futures. This year’s Gala took place in theHammerstein & Grand Ballrooms of the Manhattan Center in New York City.

Upon arrival, guests entered the foyer,which had been transformed into an elegant registration space with deep bluedrapes and chandeliers adorned with twinkling lights, crystals and flowershanging to the floor, along with a moving digital step & repeat of charitylogos, utilizing Samsung’s new product, “The Wall.” Guests then proceeded to the Promenade in theHammerstein Ballroom and upstairs to the Grand Ballroom to enjoy cocktails andpassed hors d'oeuvres, surrounded by large-scale floral installations.

After cocktails, guests made their way intothe historic Hammerstein Ballroom, which was transformed into a scintillatingbanquet hall. An attention-grabbing LED set design showcased animated contentand logos of Samsung’s donors and charitypartners. Throughout the event, the LED panels were used for to provide visualcomplement to each musical performance.

The evening’s program included live “Voice of God” announcementsby celebrities DJ Irie, Jessie Decker, and Mark Messier, a lively opening performanceby DJ Irie, Wyclef Jean, and The Young People’s Chorus of NYC (under the direction of FranciscoNunez), special guests, Ryan Seacrest and Mark Consuelos, and remarks by Good+FoundationFounder & President, Jessica Seinfeld, and Eric LeGrand among others. FromSamsung, Executive Vice President of Samsung Electronics America, Joe Stinziano,and President & CEO of Samsung Electronics North America, YH Eom bothaddressed the audience. This year’s“Champion ofHope” award was presented to NBAChampion and philanthropist Dwayne Wade by his sister, Tragil Wade. The eveningalso featured a mid-show performance by Portugal. The Man who played theirhits, “Feel it Still,” and “Live in the Moment.”

The evening’s finale wasa performance by legendary hip hop group, The Roots, who delivered a non-stophigh-energy set that featured a surprise performance by Ciara who, along withher dancers, had the entire crowd on their feet through her hits including, “Goodies,”“Tootsie Roll,” “1, 2 Step, and "Level Up.“

The Samsung Gives Charity Gala raised morethan $2.4 million for its Charity Partners, who included The Ryan SeacrestFoundation; Good+Foundation; The Irie Foundation; Boomer Esiason Foundation;CAPA Foundation; The Eric and Jessie Decker Foundation; Farm Team; Joyful HeartFoundation; Mayor’s Fund to Advance New York City; New York City Ballet; NewYork Public Library; New Victory Theater; Team LeGrand; The Mark MessierFoundation; Victor Cruz Foundation; Why Not You Foundation; Young People'sChorus of New York City; and The Wade Family Foundation. Each charity was represented by a celebrityin the audience, including Sarah Jessica Parker, Ali Wentworth, MariskaHargitay, Peter Herman, Yolanda Hadid, Ali Wentworth and more.

For the 5^thyear, Empire was proud to work closely with the Samsung team to design anddeliver an incredibly memorable evening benefitting these worthy causes.

For more information onSamsung’s charitable initiatives,please visit https://www.samsung.com/us/careers/giving-back/

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Bustle Digital Group held their 2^nd Annual Rule Breakers event in Brooklyn on September 21, 2019 featuring performances by Lizzo, Betty Who, Jessie Jo Stark, Abir, and more. Empire produced the mainstage and other elements at the all-day immersive festival, designed to celebrate women who push boundaries, ignore convention - - and of course, break rules - - to further women’s rights.

The day began with attendees engaging in a 45 minute meditation session and then moved on to roller skating in the rink that is part of the LeFrak Center in Prospect Park. DJ’s Natasha Diggs and Rashida spun the tunes that kept the guests dancing and the festival vibe building.

The audience was then treated to a surprise show by Brooklyn United, a marching band comprised of fifty or so boys and girls ranging in age from 6 – 17. The troupe marched into the audience which quickly made space for them in front of the stage where the kids wowed spectators with their high-energy musicianship and dancing.

The first headline performances of the day came from Abir and Jessie Jo Stark, both of whom delivered fantastic shows. The buzz built as Betty Who took the stage later in the day, with the 6’ 2” singer bringing tremendous charisma to her performance of hits such as “Mama Say” and “Somebody Loves You”.

After Betty Who’s performance ended, the 6,000+ crowd was clearly buzzing and moving closer to the stage for the headline performance of Lizzo, which came just minutes after a rousing speech about women’s rights by politician Stacey Abrams. Lizzo took the stage to a roar from the crowd which she wowed with her sense of humor, incredible vocals, choreography (along with her “Big Girl Dancers”), and her messages of love and acceptance. Songs like “Truth Hurts”, “Juice”, “Good As Hell” and more had the audience singing along to every word and dancing under a perfect sunset in Prospect Park.

Lizzo’s concert ended at 9PM, at which point Empire had 15 hours to flip the venue to be ready for doors for the client’s Camp Romper event starting at Noon the following day. The Camp Romper event was a family friendly program, highlighted by performances by Rock & Roll Playhouse, an organization which prides itself on providing kids and parents a place to inspire creativity through music across the country. And they certainly did so for the many families who came out to the Camp Romper event. The families enjoyed the fun music and activities that the bands provided, along with activations scattered throughout the event space where the kids could have their faces painted, watch bubble artistry, and much much more.

Empire provided the staging, audio, and lighting for the mainstage and also coordinated and managed other various entertainment elements throughout both days. We are proud to produce some of the most exciting consumer-facing events on the planet, including the Bustle Rule Breakers and Camp Romper events.

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One of the world’s leading automotive companies tasked Empire withsecuring two fantastic nights of concert entertainment for their Dealer Meetingin Chicago in August 2019, and Empire delivered with Train and Imagine Dragons.

On the first night, the 2,400 auto dealers and their spouses gotto see firsthand why Train is one of the best bands available for corporateevents. Lead singer Pat Monahan always works the crowd with hisincredible vocals, great songs, and sense of humor. When the band wasn’tperforming their own smash hits, like the Grammy-winning “Drops Of Jupiter” and“Hey Soul Sister”, they delivered widely-known cover songs like “UnderPressure” and “Reeling In The Years”. And as usual, Pat invited attendeesto join him onstage to help sing Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believing” which isalways a highlight of Train’s shows.

Word among the guests was that the Train performance would bedifficult to top. But Imagine Dragons hit the stage on night two, andfrom the opening notes of their blockbuster “Believer”, it was obvious thecrowd was in for another great night. Between hits like “Demons”,“Thunder”, and “On Top Of the World”, lead singer Dan Reynolds spoke about theimportance of equality, loving yourself for who you are, and the urgency of gettingtherapy for young people suffering from depression. And when the bandclosed the show with their #1 smash “Radioactive”, punctuated with pyrotechnics,confetti cannons, and streamers, it was an over-the-top ending for twoincredible evenings.

Empire has been securing headline entertainment for special eventssince 1993. From classic artists such as Elton John and Stevie Wonder, tothe hitmakers of today like Train and Imagine Dragons, we are honored toprovide the best in musical and comedic entertainment for our clientsworldwide.​

New York, July 17, 2019 — J. B. Miller, presidentand CEO of Empire Entertainment, Inc., and Mark Poncher, president of PeakXVGlobal Events, today announced the union of their two global event production agencies.After many years of collaboration, Empire and PeakXV agreed to merge in order toexpand their capabilities and global footprint to best serve the mission-drivenneeds of existing and future clients. The combined entity will now be knownsimply as Empire.

Miller and Poncher have more than 60 years of live andbroadcast event production experience combined, bringing clients’ brands and storiesto life with lasting impact. The companies they’ve built have each becomeindustry leaders in the design, planning and execution of global media andexperiential events worldwide.

“All of us at Empire are thrilled to welcome Mark Poncher and his team to ourfamily,” says Miller. “From our first collaboration in 2007 on the ClintonGlobal Initiative Global Citizen Awards at Carnegie Hall, it was clear that Mark and his team were consummate professionalsand extraordinary producers who share Empire’s commitment to excellence andclient service. We know that combining our two stellar teams into oneorganization will provide all our clients in the corporate, private, governmentand not-for-profit arenas with unparalleled capabilities to create and produce eventsthat matter.”

Poncher, now COO of the company, added, “I’m reallyexcited, as is everyone on the PeakXV production staff, to join forces with thegreat team that Empire has built. Together we look forward to strengtheningcapabilities across the organization and expanding our West Coast team to supportcurrent and future clients.”

Empire recently marked its 25^th anniversarywith another consecutive year of record growth. The New York, Tokyo, LosAngeles and Hong Kong-based firm has executed projects in over 100 countriesincluding high-profile events like the TIME 100 Gala, Tribeca Film Festival,the Black Ball and the Grand Opening of Palm Island Dubai. The union with PeakXVwill contribute greatly to increasing momentum and growth. And with Ponchertaking on the role of COO, Miller, long recognized as one of the eventindustry’s top executive producers and creative visionaries, will dedicate substantiallymore time to client management and creative direction.

“Our plan is to leverage our respective strengths andprioritize three areas with great growth potential for us,” says Miller. The Empireplan calls for:

1. Increasing focus on noteworthy thought leadership programs, summits, conferences,and exhibitions of international stature and gravitas.

Empire’s experience on projects like Bill & Melinda Gates FoundationGoalkeepers, Eurasia Group’s GZero Summit, and Smart Cities NYC, is nowsupplemented by the team behind the Clinton Global Initiative, C40Johannesburg, Solve at MIT, and others.

2. Expanding Empire’s West Coast presence with full, local productioncapacity from Seattle, Portland & the Bay Area to Los Angeles & LasVegas.

Empire has long served West Coast clients in the technology, media,entertainment, automotive, digital and fashion/lifestyle industries. This move immediatelytransforms Empire’s existing West Coast team into a large-scale operationcapable of full-service client management, creative development and executionfor all types of projects.

3. Expanding capabilities to produce large scale sporting & civicevents, particularly surrounding the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo.

Poncher and his team bring unrivaled experience in large scale sportingevents to supplement Empire’s work with sports brands that include FOX Sports, SportsIllustrated, Nike and Adidas. Poncher’s deep experience in the sports spaceincludes the Pan Am Games Opening & ClosingCeremonies in Rio and Guadalajara, the Pyeonchang handover during the Closing Ceremony of the Sochi 2014 Olympic Winter Games, TheParalympic Games, the Opening and Closing Ceremonies of the European Games inBaku, Azerbaijan, and serving as Executive Producer for the Opening &Closing Ceremonies of the Special Olympics at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum.

This expansionalso serves as an important step in Empire’s long-term global growth plan,which includes creating a formal presence in Europe, Middle East and Africawhere both Empire and PeakXV have extensive capabilities and pastexperience.

J. B. MILLER, PRESIDENT & CEO

J. B. Miller founded Empire Entertainment in 1993 andhas grown it into a dynamic, full-service, New York City and Tokyo-basedexperiential and entertainment production agency that designs and producesprojects for corporate, government, association, not-for-profit, and privateclients.

Led by Miller, long recognized as one of theindustry’s leading executive producers and creative visionaries, Empire hasexecuted projects in over 100 countries. These events have included,broadcasts, parties, conferences, launches, festivals and awards programs suchas the White House U.N. General Assembly Head of State Reception, the TIME 100Gala, The Tribeca Film Festival, the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue launch,The Webby Awards, The Clinton Global Initiative’s Global Citizen Awards, TheGotham Awards, the Film Society of Lincoln Center Chaplin Award Gala, the FitchRatings Why? Forum, the Robin Hood Investor Conference, the Keep a Child AliveBlack Ball, Microsoft Connect Developer Conference, Internet Week and the GrandOpening of Atlantis, Palm Island in Dubai.

Empire projects have also included participation byartists and leaders such as Adele, Jay-Z, Bono, Beyoncé, Justin Timberlake,Bruce Springsteen, Alicia Keys, Prince, Sting, David Bowie, Andrea Bocelli,Kanye West, Stevie Wonder, Taylor Swift, Bruno Mars, Rihanna, Jerry Seinfeld,Billy Crystal, Jon Stewart, Stephen Colbert, Jimmy Fallon, President BarackObama, President Bill Clinton, Hillary Clinton, Steven Spielberg, George Lucas,Bill Gates, Oprah Winfrey, His Holiness the XIV Dalai Lama, Blue Man Group, andDavid Copperfield among others.

* * *

MARK PONCHER, COO

PeakXV was formed at the beginning of 2017, as apartnership between Mark Poncher and Chris Wayne (who passed away in January2019). Their clients include the Clinton Global Initiative, the Peter G.Peterson Foundation, Third Way, Solve at MIT, the Soufan Foundation, theGeneral Entertainment Authority of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, HuffPost, andthe Above the Noise RecoveryFest Concerts.

Prior to PeakXV, Mr. Poncher spent more than 30 yearsproducing events, creating experiences and managing environments for audienceslarge and small. He has served as the Executive Producer of the Clinton GlobalInitiative conferences worldwide since 2006, C40 Annual Meeting inJohannesburg, the Bloomberg Tobacco Awards in Abu Dhabi, and the U.S. - AfricaBusiness Forum.

Mark was also the Business Producer for the ceremoniesfor 2007 Rio and 2011 Guadalajara Pan and Parapan American Games, Rio Réveillon(New Year’s Eve), and the Cinco De Mayo 150th Anniversary broadcast special. Hewas Head of Production for the Baku 2015 European Games Ceremonies and theExecutive Producer of the 2014 and 2015 Rose Parade Opening and ClosingSpectaculars. He produced the Handover Ceremonies for the Sochi 2014 OlympicWinter Games and Paralympic Games Opening and Closing Ceremonies as well as theExecutive Producer for the Opening and Closing Ceremonies for the 2015 SpecialOlympics World Games in Los Angeles.

For more information, contact:

J. B. Miller

President & CEO

jbmiller@empireentertainment.com

Mark Poncher

COO

mark@empireentertainment.com

​

Creating meaningful connections between Uber Eats and its partners was a common theme throughout the recently held Future of Food Summit in Hong Kong as the company continues to invest in Asia Pacific where consumers order more Uber Eats than any other geography in the world!

Empire Entertainment Japan x Pico TBA were proud to produce this 2-day summit, partnering with Uber Eats Global Creative team, which hosted around 300 industry and opinion leaders from Asia Pacific as well as notable F&B figures from around the region including Coca-Cola, Cafe Coffee Day, Burger King, Baskin Robbins, Guzman y Gomez, Chai Time and more.

The summit was kicked off by Mr. Raj Beri, Head of Uber Eats APAC who talked about the state of food on demand in Asia Pacific, followed by a fireside chat about how technology is changing the way we eat, keynotes, panel discussions and networking opportunities. There were also various experience zones, workshops and food drops for the attendees to enjoy.

Empire x Pico TBA was involved in the concept development, planning, venue management, production and operations.​

​Empire delivered aprivate concert by legendary rock musicians for a birthday celebration at aclient’s private estate in Northern New England.

For this intimate event of approximately 70guests, Empire secured a 75-minute headline performance of John Fogerty, the co-founder ofCreedence Clearwater Revival and Rock ’n Roll Hall of Famer, alongside a special guest performance by Billy Gibbons, guitarist and lead singer of ZZTop and Rock n’ Roll Hall of Famer, .

The event took place in a constructed tent in anopen field. Following a dinner, a surprise reveal of the stage introduced theevening’s surprise headline entertainment.

When Fogerty and Gibbons hit the stage everyonegot up to sing and dance to their classic hits including, “Proud Mary”, “HaveYou Ever Seen the Rain”, “Centerfield”, "Sharped Dressed Man", and “La Grange”.

Prior to the performance, theguests enjoyed an intimate dinner and an exciting 20-minute drone show. Empire worked closely with the event décor teamto orchestrate a seamless performance for this special birthday celebration.

Empire is a leading producer of private concerts by celebrities,megastars, and icons.

Sometimes an event venue just screams out for a particular type of artist. Such was the case when a longtime corporate client asked Empire for a concert act to perform an outdoor, Summer night amphitheater show at the San Diego Symphony. Empire suggested James Taylor as the perfect performer for the setting and the client readily agreed. Empire contracted the five time Grammy Award-winning singer/songwriter, who has sold over 100 million albums worldwide, to perform a greatest-hits set that included mellow classics like "Fire & Rain", "You've Got A Friend", and "Sweet Baby James". His more upbeat hits such as "Your Smiling Face", "How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved By You)", and "Mexico" had the 1,000 plus attendees out of their seats dancing and yelling for multiple encores. With the sun setting behind the stage, and a full moon rising, there was no doubt that JT was the perfect performer for the evening.

Earlier at the same conference, Empire had also secured The Honorable Newt Gingrich and Valerie Jarrett (Senior Advisor to Barack Obama) to engage in a moderated conversation about the state of the American political system. The two proved that politicians from opposite sides of the aisle can speak civilly to one another, listen to one another, and discuss real solutions to modern challenges such as immigration, the "tribal" news media and economic disparity.

Securing keynote speakers and headline entertainers is one of the many services available to clients in Empire's overall portfolio of event production services — Empire has delivered in incredibly broad range of many of the world’s leading artists and thinkers for private events. We pride ourselves on collaborating with clients to determine the best performers and presenters based on deep understanding of attendee demographics, event budgets, client goals, and the setting for any particular project.​

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Empire recently welcomed Health Catalyst, a Utah based dataanalytics company, to New York City for the exciting launch of their IPO. Thegroup was treated to an action-packed day for over 300 of their employees andguests.

After ringing the closing bell at NASDAQ, the group boardedsix double decker buses for a customized tour of New York City, including awalking tour of the World Trade Center and 9/11 Memorial.

The bus tour culminated at Pier 40, where guests boarded a privatedinner cruise, showcasing the Manhattan skyline, including a trip under theBrooklyn Bridge and a close up viewing of the Statue of Liberty.

Empire is a leading producer of launch events, campaigns andannouncements and is proud to support innovative ventures like Health Catalyst.

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Playworks celebrated their fifth annual Get in the Game Gala, hosted by Nickelodeon, in the Viacom Building rooftop overlooking Times Square on abeautiful summer night.

This year Playworks New York/New Jersey expanded their impact to servemore than 125,000 girls and boys in over 200 schools across our region to ensure safe, healthy and inclusiveplay which helps reducesbullying, increases physical activity, improve learning and promote social and emotional skills.

In addition to their full time Playworks programming in local New YorkCity and Newark schools, this winter they launched daily programming in four Rochester schools as part of their Western NY expansion, funded in part by theRalph C. Wilson Jr. Foundation.

There was much to celebrate as Playworks' NY/NJ BoardChair, Laura James, and Team Up Program Manager, Luis Guerra presented the Most Valuable Principal award recognizing Dina Ercolano, and honored five Playworks Junior Coaches.

The evening featured inspiring remarks from Playworks NY/NJ ProgramDirector, Henry Appiah, Director of Development, Deborah Brodheim, and Founderand CEO, Jill Vialet. A live auction led by CK Swett raised funds to supportthe expanding efforts of Playworks to bring the power of play to every child inNew York and beyond. A special highlight was Sponge Bob Squarepants greeting guests and congratulating the Junior Coaches on their awards.

Attendees enjoyed stunning views of Times Square and experienced playthrough immersive activations of traditional recess games like Four Square andSwitch, along with life sized installations of Jenga, Hop Scotch, Ground Pongand a rousing game of Ro-Sham-Bo Rockstar.

Working closely with Playworks, Empire served as the overall eventproducer, managing elements including venue, décor, programming, and technicalproduction. Empire is a leading producer of fundraising events and we arehonored to have produced all five years of the Annual Playworks New York Get in the Game Gala.

To support or learn more about Playworks, please visit www.playworks.org

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Third Way, the nationalthink tank, in conjunction with the Black Economic Alliance and Winston Fisher,gathered Democratic officials, strategists, constituency leaders, campaignstaff, and influencers from early and battleground states to chart the way towin in 2020.

Opportunity 2020, TheWay to Win, was held in June 2019 at the Gaillard Center in Charleston, SouthCarolina and built on Third Way’s 2018 strategy session in Columbus, Ohio, where Democrats coalesced around amessage of economic opportunity that delivered the House majority and helpedrebuild the Blue Wall. Empire installed environmental branding throughout thevenue to create a sense of place for all attendees so that everywhere theyturned, carefully-curated images would remind them of their goals for 2020.These included a 3D display at the ballroom entrance, scrolling images onbuilt-in screens, and strategically placed banners and graphic walls.

Third Way Opportunity2020 kicked off with a plenary session in the smaller of the two ballrooms setin a theater arrangement supplemented with soft seating for networking and acustom stage branded for the event. The two-hour plenary featured presentationsand panel discussions with University of South Carolina Director of the Centerof Education and Equity of African American Students, Dr. Jennifer Reed, SenatorChris Coons, and New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham. Immediately followingthe session, attendees moved upstairs to the Galleria for an opening reception.

The next day, theplenary was held in the large ballroom where Empire built a three-tier amphitheaterto create a more intimate setting for the presentations. Presenters and moderatorsincluded Executive Director of the Black Economic Alliance, Akunna Cook, CongresswomanAbigail Spanberger, Congressman Joe Cunningham, President Obama’s 2012 campaignmanager and former White House Deputy Chief of Staff Jim Messina, and formerObama White House Communications Director, Jen Psaki.

The conference wrappedwith a reception on the roof deck of the nearby Dewberry Hotel.

Empire Entertainment produced a wedding celebration for a Russianclient at the historic Plaza Hotel. The bride & groom welcomed over 200guests from Russia and around the world to the iconic New York hotel for anelegant evening punctuated by performances from the Duke Ellington Orchestra,Affiniti NYC and Gloria Gaynor among others.

The evening began with an elegant cocktail reception in thePalm Court. Arriving guests in spectacular formal attire enjoyed caviar andchampagne under palm fronds and a domed glass ceiling as the Todd Londagin trioplayed jazz standards.

Suddenly the enormous mirrored panel doors swung open andguests moved into the Terrace Room for the wedding ceremony. The Terrace Roomhad been transformed with hydrangeas and peonies and the room glowed withthousands of candles lit as the wedding party entered to a string &woodwind ensemble for the ceremony. At the top of the steps stood a huge floralChuppah.

After the smashing of the glass a Russian violinist struckup a lively song of celebration as guests followed the wedding couple to theGrand Ballroom which had been transformed into a vision of old Hollywoodglamour with lighting and florals that accented the decadent gold interiors.

Empire secured the world-renowned Duke Ellington Orchestrato perform for the newlywed’s grand entrance into the ballroom. The 17-pieceorchestra crooned American jazz classics as guests enjoyed a seven-course mealand numerous toasts from the wedding party. Two Russian hosts emceed theevening in English & Russian.

Towards the end of dinner Gloria Gaynor, the soulful discosinger, was welcomed to the stage by the cheering guests and performed a fullset including her hits “I Will Survive” and “Never Can Say Goodbye.” Hersoulful voice and classic hits had guests on their feet throughout the performance.Affiniti NYC closed out the night with modern dance classics keeping guests on thedance floor into the early hours of the morning.

Empire worked closely with the Plaza and a team of florists,lighting designers and engineers to orchestrate every moment of the wedding. Photo's credited by @vertdegris

Empire Entertainment is a leading producer of both corporateand private concert events.

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

Held at the iconic David H. Koch Theater at Lincoln Center, the evening began with guest arrivals and an elegant cocktail reception in the theater’s soaring marble lobby. A delicate fragrance created exclusively for this year’s awards by the Lifetime Achievement Perfumer scented the lobby while guests walked the red carpet, mingled and sipped champagne. A breath-taking floral backdrop made with real peonies, irises and roses served as an interactive photo op indoors.

For the second year in a row, comedian and actor Jane Krakowski hosted the main program. Once guests were seated in the theater, Jane kicked off the star-studded awards with a humorous opening monologue and medley of songs covering the fragrance industry and achievements since the prior year.

Notable program participants included Hall of Fame Honoree Tom Ford, Lifetime Achievement Perfumer Dominique Ropion, and Fragrance Industry Game Changer, Laura Slatkin.

Celebrity presenters and attendees included Michelle Pfieffer, Henry Golding, star of Crazy Rich Asians, Carine Roitfeld, Bebe Rexha, Maria Borges, Nick Youngquest, Luma Grothe, Jason Wu, Hilary Rhoda, Hannah Bronfman, and Maye Musk among others.

Following the awards program, guests ascended a gorgeous marble staircase to the David Koch Promenade for a seated dinner for over 500. The evening ended with an after party held on the terrace of the promenade, overlooking the iconic Lincoln Center fountain where guests danced to music by DJ Coleman.

The Fragrance Foundation Awards bring together virtually every luxury and consumer brand in the fragrance industry including Estée Lauder, John Varvatos, Coach, Dior, Coty, Ralph Lauren, Tom Ford, Giorgio Armani, Bottega Veneta, by Killian, Jo Malone, Maison Margiela, Victoria’s Secret, BYREDO, Viktor & Rolf, LVMH, Puig, Chanel, Chloé, Marc Jacobs, Versace, Lancôme, diptyque Paris, L’Oréal, Revlon, NEST, Bvlgari, and YSL.

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

The Peter G. PetersonFoundation, based in New York, is a non-partisan organization dedicated toaddressing America’s long-term fiscal challenges to ensure a better economicfuture. Founded by Peter G. Peterson and led by Chairman and CEO MichaelPeterson, the Foundation works with leading policy experts, elected officials,and the public to build support for solutions to put America on a sustainablefiscal path. The Peter G. Peterson Foundation engages in grant-making,partnerships and research to educate and involve Americans across a variety ofperspectives.

While the Peter G.Peterson Foundation presents several events throughout the year, the FiscalSummit is their marquee event. Empire’s Los Angeles based team (formerly Peak XV)has been producing the Fiscal Summit since its inception.

The Fiscal Summit bringstogether leaders, experts, and policymakers to discuss how to build asustainable fiscal future to put America on a path for prosperity, leadershipand growth. In 2019, the headlining speakers included Speaker of the HouseNancy Pelosi interviewed by CNN Senior Congressional Correspondent Manu Raju,and Director of the OMB and acting White House Chief of Staff Mick Mulvaneyinterviewed by CNBC Correspondent Eamon Jamers.

Other notable speakersincluded Congressman John Yarmuth (KY), Congressman Kevin Brady (TX), SenatorHeidi Heitkamp (ND), and Director of the Congressional Budget Office PhillipSwagel.

The event kicked offwith a cocktail reception in the POV Lounge and Terrance of the W Hoteloverlooking DC and the Washington Monument. Peter G. Peterson Foundation CEOMichael Peterson welcomed guests and gave a quick synopsis of the next days’schedule.

The conference was heldat the Newseum in Washington DC and consisted of panels and presentations inthe main plenary room on the 7^th floor followed by lunch andadditional discussions on the 8^th floor. Both rooms were webcast andincluded interactive polling and online Q&A to the moderator via a privateemail system.

After the mainconference concluded, a special session called “The Solutions Initiative” washosted on the 7^th floor, which had been rearranged during the lunchhour. This session brought together leading think tanks from across thepolitical spectrum to put forward comprehensive plans to set America on astronger, more sustainable fiscal path. The Solutions Initiative session providedattendees an opportunity to learn more about the initiative and interactdirectly with the plans’ authors about their policy choices, recommendationsand tradeoffs.

This special sessionincluded speakers from seven Centers and Institutes and was moderated by JeffHolland from the Peter G. Peterson Foundation.

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OnWednesday, May 15th, 2019, Empire proudly produced the 5th Annual World ConnectBenefit Dinner at Chelsea Piers’ waterfront venue, Current.

World Connect invests early-stage funding in grassroots,locally designed and led projects that drive transformative, self-sustainingdevelopment in the most under-resourced areas of the world. WorldConnect success stories were integrated throughout the event with enlarged photos and informational signageexplaining their mission connecting the attendees to opportunities to supportspecific initiatives.

A handpan performer welcomed guests into a vibrant, waterfront space where bold andcolorful activations were featured. Vinyl decal paths on the floor guidedguests from point to point, designed to tell stories of various World Connectinitiatives and their impact. Some paths led to beautiful imagery from theirsites, while others led to experiential stations where guests could purchase itemsmade by World Connect-supported businesses and sample their handmade products.

There wasalso a Portal, which was a live-stream media room for guests to interact liveand in real-time with two World Connect project leaders on site in Lagos duringthe cocktail hour. Music by the World Guitar Duo, Jason and Elysa Hochman, playedmusic while guests enjoyed cocktails overlooking gorgeous views of the HudsonRiver.

Guestentered the dinner room where tables were set with beautiful glass globecenterpieces, set amid nests of greenery and fairy lights. These weresurrounded by white, modern candles warming the room with a grounding energy.

Thethoughtful stage program featured the Executive Director, Pamela Nathenson, BoardChair, George Biddle, and Dinner Co-Chair, Christoph Becker, who shared the powerfulimpact of what World Connect can achieve with minimal funding.

The program’sfeature was an incredibleconversation between Dinner Co-Chair, Clara Bingham and honored guest, ChiefTheresa Kachindamoto, who was the first female Chief of the Dedza District inMalawi, overseeing over 900,000 people. Chief Kachindamoto has successfullyannulled over 5,000 child marriages, encouraging children to go back to school.World Connect has launched three projects in her district – a primary schoolwith $3,000, a reforestation project with $3,000, and a maternity house with$10,000.

Theevening helped World Connect raise $600,000 which will launch 135 projects acrossthe globe to catalyze locally-led development. To learn more about WorldConnect and to donate or get involved, visit https://www.worldconnect.global

EmpireEntertainment is proud to support World Connect and their global initiatives toconnect the world.

For the fifth consecutive year, Screenvision Media called on Empire to produce their Upfront to demonstrate the power, emotional impact and multifaceted reach of cinema advertising to their audience of media buyers and planners.

Screenvision Media asked Empire to strategically conceptualize and design an elegant event that would show media buyers why cinema advertising plays a critical role in any advertising campaign.

Traditionally held the week prior to network upfronts, the decision was made to present this event during the week of network upfronts to draw the most prestigious clientele. The chosen venue was the storied motion picture theater now known as the Ziegfeld Ballroom and the theme would be Inside Cinema.

Guests arrived at the Ziegfeld and were welcomed to the space with a striking champagne tower. Guests were served movie theatre popcorn as they took their seats in a theater over which hung custom-made oversize crystal & LED chandeliers in the art deco design of the movie house.

The stage presentation was led by Screenvision Media CEO John Partilla, CRO Katy Loria, and EVP Christine Martino. To help drive their key messaging, renowned cinema stars Hilary Swank and Vince Vaughn joined them on stage to discuss the impact cinema has on moviegoers.

In addition to announcing their 2020 10-pack offering, Screenvision Media also unveiled their newest initiative, a partnership with the Geena Davis Institute on Gender in Media, where they will work alongside studios in the earliest scripting stages to promote gender equality in movie roles. As part of this initiative, Screenvision introduced anew content segment in their Front + Center pre show where Geena Davis will introduce a special look at upcoming films that receive a ‘GD-IQ Check’.

To conclude the presentation, Idina Menzel, star of Frozen and Frozen 2, performed her hits “DefyingGravity,” and “No Day But Today.” During her finale performance of “Let It Go”from Frozen, Menzel invited several guests to join her on stage.

The evening continued with cocktail reception / after party where guests created their own cinema-inspired gifs with two custom created photo booths.

Empire was responsible for event details including concept ideation, venue acquisition, layout and scenic design, catering, production, scripting, screen graphics, décor, staffing and talent booking.

Empire is proud to work with Screenvision Media to reach advertisers with a high-impact, experiential upfront.

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

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Celebrating its 11th anniversary, the Shorty Awards continueto honor the best influencers, celebrities, brands and agencies on socialmedia, across Snapchat, Instagram, YouTube, Twitter and other platforms. Theshow returned to PlayStation Theater in the heart of Times Square in New YorkCity for the ceremony on May 5.

Over 800 influencers, brands, agencies and guests packed thetheater for the ceremony, which featured a hot pink carpet, cocktail reception,seated dinner and an after party at the W Times Square hotel. The staged eventstreamed live on YouTube and Twitter to over 211,000 (and counting!) viewersinternationally, as fans all over the globe tuned in to watch their favoritesocial media stars.

Comedian and actress Kathy Griffin hosted the show and keptthe audience entertained with her trademark comedy from both the stage and theaudience during a crowd interaction bit.

Helping keep the show lively throughout, well-knownpresenters included Jay Shetty, Shangela, Mamrie Hart, Denzel Dion, EvaGutowski, and Sean Evans.

This was the most competitive show to date, as over 7million votes poured in from fans all over the world, a record forparticipation. Winners of the signature Whale-Tail Trophy included ShantellMartin, March for Our Lives, Ryland Adams, Shane Dawson, and Shorty’s very ownhost, Kathy Griffin.

Recognized this year for their contributions to the world, PhenomAward recipients included Kevin Love (Athlete), Marsai Martin (Entertainment),March for our Lives (Changemakers), and Terry Crews (Activism).

New Orleans-based band and 2017 NPR Tiny Desk Contestwinners Tank and the Bangas brought down the house performing four hits from their new album Green Balloon, including "Nice Things" and "Ants" to finish out the night.

Empire is proud to partner with The Shorty Awards for our fifthyear and we congratulate all the 2019 winners, as well as an even largercongratulations to eleven successful years of the Shorty Awards!

Empire is excited to announce that theproduction team behind Solve at MIT, Peak XV Global, joined the company this month. The team has produced Solve at MIT, Solve’s annualflagship event, for the past three years and just completed the 2019 event.

Solving the world’s most pressing challenges is no small goal,but that is exactly what Solve at MIT aims to do. Each year, Solve launchesfour challenges and convenes more than 550 leaders, innovators, andentrepreneurs from around the world on MIT’s campus to develop solutions tothose challenges. Along with partnership building and intensive workingsessions, Solvers gain access to more than $1 million in funding for theirsolutions.

Attendees from more than 28 countries are treated to plenarydiscussions featuring MIT President Rafael Reif, U.N. High-Level CommissionerAlaa Murabit, Inter-American Development Bank President Luis Alberto Moreno, SchmidtFamily Foundation President Wendy Schmidt, and Crate and Barrel CEO Neela Montgomery.This year, the opening plenary featured a moving performance by poet andmusician Lyla June followed by a lively reception at the MIT Museum.

Over the course of three days, our team created an environmentacross multiple buildings on MIT’s campus conducive to information sharing,networking, and partnership building. Arriving Solvers were greeted by a fullbuilding graphic on the windows of the iconic Kresge Auditorium. During theevenings they were invited to curated Salon dinners to further their solutionsand networking within the Solve community.

Our team designed plenary rooms to accommodate a variety ofcontent, from live performances to custom video content to Solvers presentingtheir challenge solutions. This year we designed a custom wall installation inMIT’s Media Lab where five Scribit robots drew artwork for Solve attendees toenjoy throughout the conference. We designed multiple conference venues tocreate an intimate feel for networking while enveloping the Solve community ina branded environment and creating a seamless, multi-day experience.

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Empire was proud to recently serve as producer of Smile Train’s 20^thAnniversary gala titled “It Starts with a Smile.” Over 500 people gathered at Capitalein New York City to celebrate Smile Train’s two decades of empowering localmedical professionals and supporting comprehensive cleft care for more than onemillion children worldwide.

During the program and seated dinner, which was hosted by ABC’s GingerZee, Smile Train CEO, Susannah Schaefer delivered moving remarks about the hugeimpact that proper care has on a child with a cleft. Chairman of Smile Train’sMedical Advisory Board, Dr. Larry Hollier, Miss Universe OrganizationPresident, Paula Shugart and Top Chef’s Graham Elliot, were all honored fortheir philanthropic efforts, while retired NBA player, Dikembe Mutombo was recognizedfor his humanitarian work. The program also included a moving tribute to SmileTrain Founder Charles B. Wang. Other programhighlights included appearances by Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach, Miss USA2015, Olivia Jordan and a lively auction conducted by Paul Florez.

Guests arrived at the landmark Stanford White building to see a beautiful photobackdrop adorned in greenery. Interviews took place on the red carpet whileothers enjoyed cocktails at crystalline design-inspired bars that displayedrotating imagery of children helped by Smile Train. Additionally, an LEDbackground interactive photo activation allowed guests to choose to be picturedin a variety of locations around the world where Smile Train supports cleftprograms.

Inside the grand ballroom, large, heart-warming photos of Smile Train beneficiariesfrom around the world flew from the soaring skylight roof. Stunning decorincluded luminescent centerpieces with gorgeous geode designs and bars coveredin matching images. Ambient screens with moving visuals were set up asbackdrops behind each bar to ensure the room was glowing throughout.

Alexa Ray Joel, Christie Brinkley and Billy Joel’s daughter, performedclassic covers to end the dinner program and later in the evening, Rev Run andDJ Ruckus raised the roof with a dance party of old school music.

Empire is a lead producer of fundraising galas and corporate socialresponsibility initiatives.

We are grateful for the opportunity to support Smile Train’s incredible work by producing Smile Train’s 20^th AnniversaryGala. To learn more and donate, visit smiletrain.org.

The 23rd Annual Webby Awards was held at Cipriani Wall Street on Monday, May 13, 2019. Honoring the best of the internet, the show is renowned for limiting award recipients’ speeches to 5 words or less. Host Jenny Slate, from Parks & Recreation, Big Mouth, and Obvious Child, set the tone with a hilarious opening monologue before getting into the awards. Presenters and winners at the event included Michael Douglas, Tracy Morgan, Issa Rae, Tierra Whack, Hasan Minhaj, and many more. Empire Entertainment produced the event for the 15th consecutive year.

As always, winners’ 5 word speeches alternated from poignant (Monica Lewinsky’s anti internet-bullying “Unbelievably grateful. Click with compassion.”) to protest (climate change activist Greta Thunberg’s “Act now or face disaster”), to spur-of-the-moment irreverent (Michael Douglas holding up his trophy and saying “My kids think it’s hilarious”).

The Webbys also took time out to reflect on the fact that 2019 is the 50^thAnniversary of the birth of the internet by inviting Vint Cerf to the stage to say a few words. Widely heralded as one of the very small handful of people who invented the internet, Cerf was thoughtful about just how far the technology has come in such a short time, and the incredible impact it has as “a mirror of our society”.

The Webbys took a new approach this year in order to distribute the best moments from the show. The night’s highlights, 5 Word Speeches, and biggest moments were shared in real-time, with #Webbys, across Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. The show was optimized for social sharing from how the show was filmed, to how the stage was built, to a partnership with Instagram, and beyond, in order to ensure people across the Internet were able to experience the best moments of the show as they happened.

Empire is proud to maintain longstanding relationships with our clients and is honored that the Webbys have chosen us as their production partner since 2005. You can view the 23rd Annual Webby Awards in full here:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cOtdiLaK2N4

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Following the acquisition of 21st Century Fox by The Walt Disney Company in March 2019, Fox Corporation embarked on a bold new path of growth with its retained divisions: Fox News Media, Fox Sports, Fox Entertainment & Fox Television Stations.

As part of this new journey, Fox Corporation convened an Investor Day event as a platform for the company’s top leadership to share the company’s new strategic direction with the global financial community. The Investor Day event would need to present the company’s future vision flawlessly to this critical audience. Empire was entrusted to serve as the producer of all aspects of event. Working closely with Fox’s Los Angeles-based Creative Services and Special Events team and the New York-based Operations and Finance teams, the team secured the auditorium at historic One Madison Avenue building. Empire transformed the 110 year old space into a future vision of innovation with a set that included a custom LED stage and scenic screen surrounds showcasing three large LED walls (with design direction by David Korins Design). The program, which included both a live conference and a livestream transmission, began with Chairman Rupert Murdoch who welcomed the audience before turning the stage to Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Lachlan Murdoch. Following remarks by Lachlan Murdoch, Chief Operating Officer, John Nallen, took the stage before handing it off to the heads of the four divisions of Fox Corporation. CEO of Fox News Media, Suzanne Scott, CEO & Executive Producer of Fox Sports, Eric Shanks, CEO of Fox Entertainment, Charlie Collier, and CEO of Fox Television Stations, Jack Abernathy each presented their divisional plans and performance in multi-media presentations that featured multiple videos and extensive animated graphics for each portion. After a short break, the audience was treated to a panel discussion with the commissioners of Major League Baseball, Rob Manfred, and the National Football League, Roger Goodell, who shared their insights on relationships the leagues have with FOX Sports.

Chief Investor Relations Officer, Joe Dorrego, led a question and answer period and Chief Financial Officer, Steve Tomsic presented the company’s overall financial performance.

In addition to the mainstage program and livestream, Empire also designed and staffed the registration, lounge and reception areas, all based on the new Fox Corporation visual design.

The flawless program came off not only on time and on budget but was, in the words of the client, “An Awe-inspiring feat.” Empire has been proud to serve Fox for over 15 years and is a major production resource to many of the world’s largest media & entertainment companies.

Empire was happy tocontribute to a surprise-filled retreat in California for over four hundredpeople. Attendees from the global law firm did not know the theme of theretreat, who would speak or perform. La Quinta Resort in California served as aperfect venue for the outdoor concert where Empire delivered GrammyAward-Winning world musicians, Gipsy Kings, to perform under the stars.

A stage was built in thebreathtaking desert-setting on the tennis courts at La Quinta, and the energyin the air spoke to the theme of the retreat: INSPIRE ~ EVOLVE ~ THRIVE.Featuring original members, Nicolas Reyes and Tonino Baliardo, Gipsy Kingsplayed an outstanding and lively, 75-minute set made up of greatest hitsincluding, “Bambaleo,” “Volare,” “Hotel California,” and “Baila Me,” moving the feet of everyone in attendance.

Attendees from the firmspanning twenty offices around the world, including North and South America,Europe, Asia, and the Middle East were in attendance alongside their corporateand transactional partners.

Empire is a leadingprovider of celebrity talent and headline entertainment for corporate events.

Empire recentlypartnered with Reelworks.org again to produce their 2019 Gala, honoring theChange Makers whose accomplishments help young film and media makers envision afuture where their voices are heard, and their stories matter. Reel Works isone of the nation’s leading media and filmmaking not for profits, matching teens1:1 with professional filmmaker-mentors to help them build vital skills ofliteracy, leadership, and self-confidence.

Thisyear's gala celebrated the passionate and diverse individuals pioneering changein the industry by honoring four Change Makers: comedian, actor, and televisionhost of Netflix’s Patriot Act, HasanMinhaj; Academy Award-winning costume designer for Black Panther, Ruth E. Carter; President of Will PackerProductions, James F. Lopez; and Worldwide CEO of Grey Group, Michael Houston.A special announcement also highlighted the support from Netflix and theMayor’s Office of Media and Entertainment to create diverse training programsfor Reel Works students.

Theevening began with a guest reception in the historic Capitale, adorned withCorinthian columns, Venetian glass, marble mosaic floors, and 65-foot vaulted ceilings.After guests enjoyed cocktails and passed hors d’oeuvres, they made their wayinto the ballroom for the program and dinner.

Empiremanaged the stage program working with Reel Works and the evening’s host, NoreDavis. Davis is a stand-up comedian and actor, who has appeared on Last Week Tonight, Conan, 2 Dope Queens, Inside Amy Schumer, and Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee. Togetherwith moving testimonials by Reel Works students, and presenters such asPrashanth Venkataramanujam, Emmy-nominated writer and Executive Producer andCo-creator of Patriot Act; Da’VineRandolph, Tony-nominated actress and singer; and Steve Pamon, President &COO of Parkwood Entertainment, we were able to highlight the work of honorees, Chairmembers, and students.

Theenthusiastic Charles Antin took the stage as the live auctioneer, helping toraise more than $350,000. The evening wrapped with the F. John Outcalt Awardfor Outstanding Filmmaking winner announcement, awarding Faith Mora and herfilm, My Coming Out Story, out of 5 outstandingyoung finalists.

Eventsponsors included Empire Entertainment, HBO, Viacom, Samsung, Will PackerProductions, Sloss Eckhouse Law, Netflix, Grey Advertising, and BloombergPhilanthropies among others.

Empireis proud of our continued partnership with the Reel Works organization.

If youare interested in learning more about Reel Works, or would like to exploreengaging Reel Works Productions for a project, please visit: http://www.reelworks.org/​

For the 10thyear, Empire was proud to once again serve as the producer of the TIME 100Gala, which took place at the Frederick P. Rose Hall, Home of Jazz at LincolnCenter. Each year, TIME publishes the TIME 100: a list of the world’s mostinfluential people. To celebrate this highly- anticipated issue, TIME hosts anexclusive gala event in New York City attended by current and past TIME 100honorees. With its extraordinary mix of world leaders, innovators andcelebrities, the TIME 100 Gala is globally recognized as one of the mostprestigious annual events.

As in pastyears, the 2019 TIME 100 was attended by a who’s who of global icons fromindustry, culture, sports, fashion and politics. Participants and performers atthis year’s Gala included Taylor Swift, Khalid, Dwayne Johnson aka “The Rock”,Sandra Oh, Hasan Minhaj, Maria Ressa, and Fred Swaniker, as well as Editor-in-Chiefand CEO of TIME, Edward Felsenthal, Mia Tramz, and Dan Macsai.

Among thenotable attendees this year were Speaker of the House, Nancy Pelosi, GlennClose, Brie Larson, Rami Malek, Emilia Clarke, Gayle King, Naomi Campbell, RyanMurphy, Alex Morgan, Jimmy Fallon, John Oliver, Adam Rippon, Trevor Noah, JulianneMoore, Martha Stewart, Arianna Huffington, Martha Hunt, Jane Goodall, JanetMock, Lee Daniels, Tarana Burke, Yalitza Aparicio, Lynn Nottage and Chip andJoanna Gaines.

The Gala featuredan extensive red carpet on two floors, an elegant cocktail reception featuringmusic by Peter and the Master Keys, over which was flown a ‘photo chandelier’of Time 100 honorees, a seated dinner and program that combined remarks,musical performances, toasts by some of the evening’s honorees, and an afterparty with Questlove. This year’s Gala was sponsored by Cadillac, Citi, JaneWalker by Johnnie Walker, Amazon Alexa, and United Airlines.

The TIME 100drew extensive global media coverage including NBC’s Today Show, CBS ThisMorning, FOX, Entertainment Tonight, E! News, and Access Hollywood. Additionally, the TIME 100 generatesextraordinary digital reach through TIME.com, online bloggers and social media sharingby the attendees.

With theworld watching, the production of the TIME 100 requires the highest caliber ofprecision planning and flawless execution. Empire was proud to work closelywith the TIME team to once again deliver a flawless and extraordinary evening.

As Producer,Empire’s responsibilities include event design, talent booking &coordination, staging and technical production, venue and catering logisticscoordination (catering provided by Great Performances), broadcast and media facilities,stage management, staffing, front of house logistics, security and sponsoractivations.

Empire isproud to continue our 10 year history with the TIME 100 Gala.

http://time.com/5573035/time-100-2019-gala/

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Empire was thrilled to once again work with Samsung on theirannual Samsung Solve for Tomorrow Contest. The nationwide competition motivatesstudents to use S.T.E.M. (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) toapproach solutions to real-world issues impacting their communities. Participatingstudents from the Top 10 schools flew to New York City from all over thecountry to pitch their ideas to a panel of carefully selected judges.

After months of hard work, problem-solving and preparation,the finalists kicked off the trip pitching at Samsung 837. After welcomingremarks, the students began presenting their ideas and prototypes in front of thepanel of esteemed judges. Their youthful genius was revealed through a varietyof innovative solutions developed using S.T.E.M. disciplines, all of whichdisplayed qualities of empathy, safety, forethought, and kindness.

The next day was filled with buzzing energy as the studentsexperienced NYC from a personalized bus tour and had lunch and a milkshake atMom’s kitchen before heading over to the Intrepid Sea Air & Space Museum,where the students, along with SFT Alumni, Teachers and Partners presented onstage, and at tables in Hangar 3 as part of the first Solve For Tomoprrow STEMFair.

The day was full of interviews with the finalists,presentations by former contestants and interactive displays of each prototype.A break in the program allowed students and teachers to explore the museum on privatetours. When the group returned to theHangar, the space had transitioned into a reception and awards ceremony, whereafter dinner, the three winning schools were announced. Each of the tennational finalist schools were awarded $50,000 in Samsung technology, and thetop three winners each won a total of $100,000 in Samsung technology.

In addition to the student programs, this year marked thepremiere of the first-ever Teacher’s Academy programming. These programs demonstratethe ways teachers can ignite a passion for S.T.E.M. in their classrooms throughfun, educational, hands-on projects like the Hot Air Balloon experimentdemonstrated by previous teacher contestants. A panel discussion took place tofurther explore ways to engage youth in S.T.E.M. education. Programs for theteachers were held at Samsung 837 and on the beautiful campus of ColumbiaUniversity.

Empire was humbled to again collaborate with Samsung Solvefor Tomorrow to produce the final events at Samsung 837, Columbia University,and the Intrepid Sea Air & Space Museum.

To see more of the students’ work, click the link below:

https://www.samsung.com/us/solvefortomorrow/

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On April 27, 2019,Empire was honored to produce ArtBall, which raised funds for Amref HealthAfrica, the largest Africa-based and African-led healthcare organization atA/D/O in Brooklyn. This year’s ArtBall honored Zanele Muholi, a South Africanartist and visual activist focused on the LGBTQ+ community.

Upon arrival, guests enteredthrough a curated gallery featuring over 30 artworks by artists from across theAfrican continent that were up for auction. Each piece was available on Artsy priorand during the event, and 100% of the proceeds went to Amref. The VIP portionof the program included passed hors d’oeuvres and a special discussion with ZaneleMuholi moderated by Kimberly Drew. Among the many noteworthy guests werehonorary host and artist, Shantell Martin and Broadway's Féla star AdesolaOsakalumi.

After the VIP event, the party kickedinto full swing as over 600 general admission guests arrived in their impressiveAfrican attire. Open bars flowed with Hendricks, Tito’s, Espolon and otherspirits while guests enjoyed African diaspora inspired snacks provided by BrownsvilleCommunity Culinary Center.

Th centerpiece of the evening was aneducational activation—a replication of a classroom structure designed in thespirit of the Wamba Girls’ School in Kenya. The classroom was staged witha chalkboard, desks and “Dignity Kits” stuffed with school supplies, hygieneproducts and more, with each item laid out out as an example of what a smalldonation could provide for a child. The wooden walls were lined with facts and photosfrom Amref’s work. A polaroid station was set up just outside the structure soattendees could write notes and send their photos to the girls from the WambaGirls’ School in Kenya. Docents led guests through a guided tour of theclassroom to fully explain Amref’s important work.

Global CEO of Amref,Dr. Githinji Gitahi, delivered a moving speech about celebrating life, noting thatsome come for the “art", while others come for the “ball", encouraging all tohave fun and celebrate while being mindful of the cause for which the audiencewere gathered.

The night was ledby emcee, Young Prince, and an amazing mix of Afrobeats and other dance musicwas provided by DJ Tao, Rich Medina and Juls. Guests spent the night gettingdown on the dance floor until the very last second of the event.

Empire was proudto design and produce a successful fundraising gala for Amref Health Africa,supporting the inspiring initiatives they achieve.

Amref HealthAfrica provides health care solutions that are for Africans, by Africans. Tolearn more please visit https://www.amrefusa.org

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After a 10 year hiatus, Project Runway will return to Bravorevamped and better than ever with a new host, mentor, and judges. Airing it’s 17^thseason premiere on Thursday, March 14^th 2019, this culturally iconictelevision show features 16 designers showcasing their innate talent forfashion design in a nail-biting reality experience not to be missed. Bravo Media called on Empire to produce ahighly glamorous bash to welcome the show back to its originating network.

The momentous premiere was celebrated by the show’s judges KarlieKloss, Christian Siriano, Brandon Maxwell, Elaine Welteroth and Nina Garcia atVandal in New York City. Drawing inspiration from the venue’s decor featuring world-renownedstreet artists, Empire designed five rooms with creative and bold activations forthe 250 guests to explore. Upon entry, guests were immersed in a fun-house inspiredcheckered room with Bravo’s Project Runway logo stretching across the wall inblack & white. Once inside, a hallway of dress forms inspired by those usedin the show drew guests into the main event spaces.

Red carpet festivities and guest arrivals were accompaniedby custom stenciled cocktails and passed hors d’ouevres. A velvet curtainentrance to the next room revealed a runway with an eye-catching LED arch andfloor-to-ceiling images of the judges. Among the activations were two live artperformances; The Bumby’s anonymous “Fair and Honest Appraisal of YourAppearance,” and Once Upon a Laurén & Jen Mussari live painted custom, brandedmake-up pouches.

Another room installation featured a full size bar cartadorned in florals and foliage, the perfect backdrop for a celebrity andinfluencer photo op. The cart, surrounded by accessory walls filled with metallicheels, boxes and notions, transported guests to the work room familiarly seenon the program.

In the main party room, guests enjoyed passed hors d’oeuvresand food stations inspired by street food from Chile & Barcelona. DJ HannahBronfman kept the crowd dancing all night long, especially the contestants!

Before screening the never-before-seen clip of Season 17, NBCUniversalLifestyle Networks’ President Frances Berwick and new Project Runway host KarlieKloss gave brief remarks about the show while guests continuedthe fun until the end of the night.

For more on Empire’s past work with Bravo Media, please click here.

Empire is a leading producer of premieres for television,motion picture and other media & entertainment clients.

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Target onceagain called on Empire to produce their 2019 Financial Community Meeting – anannual presentation to analysts and media held at 583 Park in Manhattan. Targetreported on their 2018 earnings and growth as well as their plans for theremainder of 2019 and beyond.

Doors wereopened to guests an hour prior to the start of the meeting, giving them time todine on a catered breakfast and mingle with their peers. Opening remarks werebriefly given by John Hulbert, Target’s EVP of Investor Relations. John wasfollowed by Target CEO Brian Cornell who spoke on the company’s successes andgrowth from past year as well as where he would be driving Target in the comingyears. Brian was followed by CFO Cathy Smith and COO John Mulligan who spoke onthe investments Target has made and will make, ongoing innovations that buildon the durable model they have created over the past two years, andimprovements that have been made and will continue to be made to their guest fulfillmentservices. The presentation was brought to a close with Brian Cornell, onceagain, taking the stage to sum up what they had spoken on that morning and toreaffirm Target’s goals for the future.

Immediatelyfollowing remarks by Cornell, Hulbert, Smith and Mulligan, CNNtweeted a link to an article that commented ‘Target had its bestyear [in 2018] since 2005’ which truly captured the feeling in the room.

After thepresentation, Cornell remained onstage for a Q&A segment where guests weregiven the opportunity to personally interact with Cornell and all of the otherTarget Leadership Team.

Following thegeneral attendee Q&A session, select media personnel were invited to enjoya casual lunch spread followed by a more intimate on-the-record Q&A sessionbetween the media & Cornell.

In additionto the remarks given by the Target Leadership Team, Cornell participated inone-on-one interviews with CNBC, Bloomberg, and Yahoo! Finance to furtherdiscuss their successes.

Empire workedclosely with the Target Creative team to bring the brand to life in a verysleek and modern aesthetic. Guests were seated in white chairs, at white tableswith a Target-red agenda for the meeting adding a splash of color to the room.Empire also fabricated a custom built 5-foot high by 20-foot long frostedplexiglass stage scape with a white Target bullseye to act as the backdrop onstage.

In additionto the room & stage design, Empire managed all technical aspects of theprogram, as well as catering, venue logistics and permitting.

Empire isvery proud to once again collaborate with Target, a Fortune 50 company, tocreate and execute this top-tier business communication event. ​

For the official launch announcement of the new cruise line venture, Virgin Voyages, Sir Richard Branson and the Virgin Voyages team turned to Empire to produce an event that could support such epic news. Expanding the industry, Virgin Voyages is unlike any other cruise line to date.

To announce this exciting new endeavor, Virgin Voyages held Press Conference and High Tea events for the media and travel industry insiders – First Mates, as Virgin Voyages prefers to call them – to kick off sales for the world’s most unique and energetic ship, the Scarlet Lady.

This momentous announcement called for an equally stunning venue and program. On the 102^nd floor of the One World Observatory, Empire created a sparkling, branded atmosphere that perfectly expressed the Virgin Voyages brand while leveraging the 360-degree views of New York City.

Empire brought the Virgin Voyages brand to life by fabricating a whimsical red & white striped ship hull and purple mirrored backdrop that acted as a branded entry statement and social media-worthy photo op. Colorful striped window clings throughout the space further emphasized the originality & playfulness of the Virgin Voyages brand.

Both the Press Conference and High Tea featured conversations between Virgin founder, Sir Richard Branson, Tom McAlpin, Virgin Voyages President & CEO, Dee Cooper, Virgin Voyages’ SVP of Design, Nirmal Saverimuttu, Virgin Voyages’ Chief Commercial Officer, and Stacy Shaw, Virgin Voyages’ VP of Sales & Business Development. The morning’s Press Conference was moderated by Brian Kelly, The Points Guy, and the afternoon High Tea was kicked off by Aarti Thiagarajan of Mother, Virgin’s agency of record.

Video content showed flyover renderings of how The Scarlet Lady will come to life in early 2020, and highlighted immersive theatrical performances that will set the Virgin Voyages cruises apart from industry standards; truly ‘an epic sea change for all’!

Empire was thrilled to partner with Virgin Voyages on these groundbreaking events that effectively delivered the force of the announcement while also giving attendees a sense of the enjoyment to come.

Empire is a leading producer of launch events, campaigns and announcements and is proud to support innovative ventures like Virgin Voyages. To learn more, visit here.

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In late January, Empire was proud to produce CHEFS x BREEDERS, a Dinner from the Ground Up, to celebrate Row 7, a seed company co-founded last year by chef Dan Barber, plant breeder Michael Mazourek and seedsman Matthew Goldfarb. This inventive seed-to-table dinner at Pioneer Works, visual artist Dustin Yellin’s non-profit cultural center in Brooklyn, featured world-renowned chefs, plant breeders, writers, entrepreneurs, thought leaders and friends of Row 7 for a conversation celebrating the future of food.

The collaborative menu featured new and experimental vegetables— all bred for deliciousness— prepared by renowned chefs including Dan Barber, Daniel Humm, Dan Kluger, Christian Puglisi, Heinz Reitbauer, Ana Sortun, Daniela Soto-Innes, Alex Stupak and Jean-Georges Vongerichten. The chefsworked side-by-side in a built-from-scratch kitchen to serve more than 300 guests.

As each course was served, three large screens surrounding the transformed space showed live footage of each chef preparing and plating their dishes, transitioning into live watercolors by artist Leanne Shapton. As guests enjoyed each course, animated versions of the paintings by video artist Austin Switser filled the screens. These surround videos added vibrant color and light that reflected the future-forward work of Row 7. Floral designer Emily Thompson created sculptural floral and root installations throughout the space to create contrast and juxtaposition of materials in the space.

In addition to remarks by Barber and co-founder and breeder Michael Mazourek, various Row 7 friends and collaborators gave toasts between each course, including writer Adam Gopnik, Martha Stewart, poet Kevin Young and farmer activist Karen Washington.

Row 7 brings chef and breeders together to create vegetables to develop flavorful, disease-resistant crops and to push forward the conversation surrounding the intersection of seed conservation and innovation. Row 7 is “grounded in the notion that deliciousness might just change the world.”

Empire was proud to work closely with Row 7 to create this inventive dinner. Empire served as overall producer, providing technical production, lighting, screen content, scripting, graphics, partnering with Raduno on culinary logistics and hospitality.

Empire is a leading producer of standout culinary events and experiences.

https://www.row7seeds.com/

Among the many events that happen in Las Vegas during the Consumer Electronics Show (CES), MediaLink’s annual Executive Dinner is among the top tickets in town for the tech power crowd. Working closely with the teams from MediaLink and Diversified Production Services, Empire delivered Grammy Award-Winning artist, Seal, who performed an incredible 45-minute set made up of Standards classics (from his 2019 Grammy nominated album) such as “I Put a Spell on You,” and all of his greatest hits including, “Kiss From a Rose,” “Killer,” “Fly Like an Eagle,” and “Crazy,” which made the guests demand an encore!

Alongside MediaLink’s Chairman and CEO Michael Kassan, approximately 500 guests were in attendance. They included Katie Couric, Arianna Huffington, Pamela Drucker Mann, Bob Pittman, Martin Sorrell, Gary Vaynerchuk and top executives from AT&T, Xandr, Adobe, Samsung, Unilever, Hulu, Google and more.

Empire is a leading provider of celebrity talent and headline entertainment for corporate events and has worked extensively at the Consumer Electronics Show.

Among the many events that happen in New York City duringthe holidays, the Tree Lighting Skate-tacular at Bank of America Winter Villageat Bryant Park is among the most exciting and magical.

Working closely with the Bryant Park team, Empire identifiedcandidates for and ultimately negotiated for and secured Emmy and GoldenGlobe-nominated actor, Alan Cumming.

Working from an original Christmas tale, for which hecontributed ideas, Alan acted as the narrator of the event and read a story toa little girl. This story was punctuated with a series of live, on-iceperformances by Olympic and World Champion skaters including Johnny Weir, Meagan Duhamel & EricRadford and Kaetlyn Osmond & Jeremy Abbott.

The massive Christmas tree was lit just as Alan and the girlsang a song together and the show concluded with an immense fireworks displayand the opening of the rink to free skating to thousands of New Yorkers,courtesy of Bank of America.

Approximately 5,000 people were in attendance and the showwas also livestreamed on a variety of digital platforms.

Empire is a leading provider of celebrity talent and headlineentertainment for public and civic celebrations and events.

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For the ninth consecutive year, Empire Entertainment served as producer of ARTWALK NY – New York City’s foremost annual art auction fundraiser, benefiting the Coalition for the Homeless.

More than 750 Coalition supporters, artists, collectors, art-lovers, and celebrities gathered at Spring Studios for a night filled with more than 100 pieces of contemporary art in a silent and live auction.

The evening was generously presented by Italian fashion house Max Mara. This year, artists Marina Adams and Stanley Whitney were honored for their contributions to contemporary art, and Suzanne Siano was honored for her continued philanthropic support of the Coalition over the years.

During the live program, Aileen Agopian auctioned off a spectacular selection of artworks courtesy of some of the world’s most renowned artists, including Jenny Holzer, Kenny Scharf, Ed Ruscha, and the night’s honorees, Marina Adams and Stanley Whitney.

The evening began with hors d’oeuvres by Spring Place and cocktails graciously provided by Perrier-Jouët, Tito’s Vodka, Hendrick’s Gin, Qui Tequila, Stella Artois, and Ramona. Tasting stations were provided by a selection of New York’s best restaurants, including ACME, MIMI, The Odeon, Colonia Verde, Manhatta, Noted Tribeca, Brodo, Claudette, and Untitled. Morgenstern’s Finest Ice Cream offered several of their delectable unique flavors and Counter Culture with Everyman Espresso served up Americanos, espresso and cappuccinos.

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

ARTWALK NY, the Coalition’s largest annual fundraiser, supports their many programs that provide permanent housing, job training, emergency food & clothing, crisis services, and youth programs to over 3,500 homeless New Yorkers each day.

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

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

Following thesuccessful spring launch events produced by Empire in New York & SanFrancisco for Dartmouth College’s $3 billion capital campaign, The Call toLead, Dartmouth’s leadership once again turned to Empire as their creative andproduction partner for a multi-city tour to expand the campaign’s reach and to promoteits vision, impact, and progress.

These regional events,focusing on both campaign impact and Dartmouth’s 250^th anniversary,are meant to re-ignite ties between Dartmouth’s alumni and their alma mater andto further promote Dartmouth’s strategic priorities locally, nationally, andaround the world. The first four stops on the tour—in the fall of 2018—wereStamford, CT, Chicago, Boston and Seattle.

Each eventfollowed a similar format, with adaptations and localizations for each city. Uponarrival, guests were met with a Dartmouth-themed exterior presence and live musicexperience. Guests registered at branded, wooden “Call to Lead” check-in desksand then entered a theater space to enjoy a program. Décor included woodenchairs dressed with Dartmouth green cushions and hung with individual college pennants.The program began with a viewing of the “Marchof Time” video counting down the 249 years of Dartmouth’s history. Speakersincluded Chair of the Dartmouth Board of Trustees Laurel Richie and DartmouthCollege President Philip J. Hanlon, who delivered updates on the campaign andgift announcements that were customized for each location. Each program also featuredtwo student-faculty pairs of presenters who highlighted the experientiallearning and collaborations that help define the Dartmouth experience.

At the finalé of the stage program, a musical performance led to a reveal of a Dartmouth-themedreception. This featured replicas of major Dartmouth landmarks surrounded by abackdrop of the New Hampshire forest custom printed in high-definition on scenicdrape. Custom scenic pieces representing Dartmouth Hall, Baker Tower and othercampus landmarks filled the space, which also included intimate areas forcurated conversations. A focal point of the reception space was a giant, free-standingbar inspired by the iconic Moosilauke Ravine Lodge. This centerpiece featured acanoe bar back and wooden roof with panoramic screens displaying highdefinition campus imagery through each of the four seasons. Each receptionfeatured a trio of live musicians providing background music and an interactivephoto-booth.

Empire workedclosely with several Dartmouth departments, students, faculty, alumni, and volunteers,as well as many creative, communications, production, and events partners toplan and execute the events. Empire’s role included concept development,messaging, venue acquisition, budgeting, registration, scripting, screen contentproduction, technical production, catering, permitting, security, scenic,décor, staffing, and guest logistics & experience.

The Call toLead aspires to raise $3 billion overall to realize three overarching goals:advancing Dartmouth’s distinctive educational model to its fullest potential;making discoveries that improve the human condition; and preparing students forlives of wise leadership. To date, more than 81,600 donors have committed atotal of $1.84 billion to the campaign through gifts of all sizes.

Dartmouth will present multiple regionalcampaign and 250th anniversary celebrations through November 2019.

Empire is aleading producer of high-level events, both on and off campus, for Ivy Leagueschools and many of the world’s leading educational institutions.

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Founded in 2011, Techonomy Media has created a platform to host conversations at the highest level about the role of technology in our economy & society, the pace of change, and what that means for us and our world - all while advocating for greater understanding through the publication of editorial content and video journalism across a variety of platforms including online, print, and through conferences & events.

For the fourth year in a row, the Techonomy annual flagship conference took place at The Ritz-Carlton Hotel in Half Moon Bay, California, where 250 guests participated in three days of engaging and interactive keynote presentations, panel discussions, townhalls, and live debates.

To evolve and reinvigorate this future forward program, Techonomy turned to Empire to redesign and refresh the look and feel of the event. Working with a bold new color palette and brand design by branding agency, Oberland, Empire created new space designs that optimized the attendee experience while preserving harmony with the venue’s existing architecture & decor.

To optimize the utilization of the Ritz-Carlton’s main ballroom and create variety throughout the day’s presentations, Empire provided a stage design that allowed for one central, main stage and two smaller flanking stages. The side stages were angled to maximize sightlines and each was stage backed with a large format LED screen, which showcased content, slides, and image magnification when the Main Stage was live. When a featured taping of NPR’s live debate show, Intelligence Squared, was added to the program, the 3-stage format was a natural fit, and truly enhanced the presentation of the debate.

Audience seating for the general session was comprised of comfortable and functional tiered seating, offering the guests who would spend upwards of 18 hours in the room over the course of the conference the option of relaxed lounge seating, upright theater-style chairs with side tables for coffee & water, and also elevated “classroom-style” table and chair options for those taking notes on laptops.

For the meals, a clear, open span tent was positioned near the conference center overlooking sweeping ocean views. Empire curated a variety of furniture groupings to emulate a restaurant-feel. An assortment of banquettes, king’s tables, high tops, and bar-style runner tables were rearranged from meal to meal to maintain interest, encourage networking, and optimize flow for each unique meal.

Furniture was added or removed on a function-by-function basis based on attendance to maintain the intimacy and bespoke nature of the event.

Many of Techonomy’s attendees and thought leaders remarked that this year marked a next-level experience and the client was thrilled with the results.

Empire was proud to work with the Techonomy Media team to deliver an extraordinary event.

To learn more about the Techonomy 18 Conference visit here

​In November 2018, Empire partnered with Endeavor tocelebrate 21 years of leading the high-impact entrepreneurship movement. Thisyear’s gala celebrated the creation of over 1.5 million jobs by EndeavorEntrepreneurs and showcased Endeavor’s powerful global network of over 500game-changing entrepreneurs and international industry leaders.

The Gala took place at Spring Studios and opened with a cocktailreception overlooking New York City's trendy Tribeca neighborhood. Guestsenjoyed hors d'ouevres served on innovative hand-carried serving racks by PinchFood Design and sampled Rabbit Hole Distillery products from a laboratory-stylebar as they circulated among exhibits showcasing Endeavor Entrepreneur productsin food & beverage, retail, fashion, technology and more. Signature cocktailsfeaturing blueberries by Endeavor Entrepreneur company Grupo Interrupción* wereserved on an automated conveyor belt as well as an ever changing array ofEndeavor Entrepreneur products like Banza Mac and Cheese, Beesline lip balm,Pacari Chocolate, and more for guests to take home.

Following cocktails, all guests were invited to a seateddinner in the massive, minimalist Studios 3&4. The dinner program included keynoteremarks by Endeavor Global’s Chairman, Edgar Bronfman Jr., and honored BillMcGlashan, Founder and Managing Partner of TPG Growth and CEO of The Rise Fund.At the conclusion of dinner, guests enjoyed a performance by Warner Musicartist, Matt Maeson.

After dinner, guests moved downstairs to Endeavor's Scale UpParty in the cocktail space now transformed into a nightclub. The after partyfeatured music by Hannah Bronfman.

Empire collaborated with the Endeavor team to plan andexecute this carefully-orchestrated event, for which every aspect of the designshowcased the organization's mission and success stories. Designs includedscenic exhibits, custom printing highlighting Endeavor’s global impact, andfurniture fabrications that visually represented various Endeavor Entrepreneurs'inventions and business models.

Empire is a leading producer of innovative not-for-profitgalas and Empire is proud to support this organization that has transformedlocal economies through innovation, job creation and mentorship.

To learn more about Endeavor, please visit endeavor.org.

Empire was recently engaged by world-renowned weddingdesigner Colin Cowie to deliver a variety of talent for a private wedding at theLe Toiny Hotel in St. Barthelemy.

For this intimate event for approximately 100 guests, Empiresecured The Tenors to perform a five song, a capella performance during the weddingceremony. Located directly on the beach with unbelievable views of the ocean,The Tenors serenaded the family, wedding party, and guests with the songs“Everything I Do, I Do It For You”, “Smash Into You”, “Maybe I’m Amazed”, “TheBest Thing About Me” and “Let Me Love You”.

For the main party, Empire secured international superstarDJ Paris Hilton as a surprise musical guest to spin a two-hour, high energydance set. Guests enjoyed her elegant stage presence while dancing the nightaway – some even danced with her on-stage!

In addition to The Tenors & Paris Hilton, Empire booked thesynchronized swimming team The Aqualillies to provide atmospheric swimmingthroughout the evening.

Empire is one of the world’s leading sources of headlineentertainment for private events and celebrations.

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On November 30, 2018, EBONY Magazine presented the 7thannual EBONY Power 100 Gala, honoring the nation’s 100 most powerful andinfluential individuals who have had a positive impact on the African-Americancommunity. These include Ebony Icon Award recipient, Motown Records and theinaugural Chairman Award recipient, former BET Networks Chairman & CEO, DebraL. Lee.

This year’s Ebony Power 100 returned to the iconic BeverlyHilton's International Ballroom and was hosted by Chairman Emeritus of EbonyMedia Operations, Linda Johnson Rice, Chairman and CEO, Michael Gibson, and Co-chair,Willard Jackson.

Following red carpet arrivals in the Wilshire Ballroom,media room activations, sponsor activations, and an elegant cocktail reception,approximately 640 guests were seated for a dinner program emceed by comedian,actor, and humanitarian, Chris Tucker.

Over the course of the evening attendees were entertained bymusical performances, including Motown artist, JAMESDAVIS, and a rousing finaléperformance by NE-YO who brought the audience to their feet.

DJ Spicoli performed throughout the event, and DJ Clark Kentspun at the post-reception in the International Foyer and Terrace where guestsalso enjoyed a variety of activities and sponsored social sharing stations.

Celebrities and A-listers in attendance and featured onstage included This is Us stars Susan Kelechi Watson & Melanie Liburd, JBSmoove from Curb Your Enthusiasm, Ryan Wilson and TK Petersen of The GatheringSpot, and the President of Motown, Ethiopia Habtemariam.

The Ebony Power 100 was presented by Nationwide, as well asother sponsors including United Airlines, Lexus, Diageo, and Motown. The event also partnered with the Sickle CellDisease Association of America, raising funds throughout the evening through atext to pledge.

Empire was honored to once again serve as event producer forthe Ebony Power 100, responsible for venue logistics, décor, production, talentcoordination, registration, videography, event logistics and onsite management.

Medidata is a global technology company with apassion for Life Sciences that is transforming clinical development across theglobe. Medidata recently hosted their 19th Annual NEXT Conferenceat Spring Studios in New York City, hosting over 1,100 attendees.

Known for its tagline “Where Science MeetsTechnology Meets the Future,” Medidata NEXT provides a space where like-mindedprofessionals, developers, data scientists, researchers, executives, andMedidata product experts connect, learn, and inspire each other.

Medidata took over every available space of Spring Studios,filling the venue with multiple sessions of thought-provoking content and an“Innovation Lounge” where attendees could fill up their coffee, grab a bite toeat, and network among sponsors and colleagues. Fourteen custom-built productdemos showcased Medidata’s current suite of solutions for biotech and pharmaceuticalcompanies that enable them to bring life-saving therapies to market moreefficiently and effectively.

Composed of overlapping general sessions andeight distinct breakout tracks, Empire was tasked with optimizing the space forboth large & small audiences for various sessions. Among the solutionsdeployed was a production design that allowed for the general session space tobe converted into two separate, fully-equipped breakout session spaces and backagain multiple times over the course of two days. Accomplishing this technicalengineering feat while ensuring flawless execution required detailed planningand advance technology design.

Empire and Medidata’s marketing and event teams workedtogether seamlessly to bring the Medidata brand to life across every inch ofSpring Studios. Bold, expressive signage stretched across the exterior,interior walls, and a series of bright LED screens, presenting Medidata’s brandand projecting a visual identity that reinforced their position as the leadinginnovator & disruptor in Life Sciences.

Empire is proud to collaborate with Medidata onthis annual, top-tier business event.

To learn more about Medidata NEXT and to view excerpts of NEXT 2018, please visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OH73SHvy1Z8&feature=youtu.be

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On October18, 2018, Empire served as the producer of The Studio Museum in Harlem’s 50thanniversary celebration, with artistic direction by Red Maple Leaf. The annualGala took place at the historic Park Avenue Armory in New York City with over800 artists, philanthropists, cultural leaders, civic leaders, and businessleaders in attendance, to celebrate the Studio Museum’s important role inpromoting the work of artists of African descent as the Museum prepares toconstruct a new home at its longtime location on Manhattan’s West 125^thStreet.

Guestsmade their way to cocktails by walking through some of the Armory’s historicand magnificent reception rooms. Upon entering the Wade Thompson Drill Hall,one of the largest unobstructed spaces in New York City, guests’ attention wasdrawn to a statement floral installation located in the middle of the cocktailspace, surrounded by highboys with matching centerpieces and black sequinlinens.

Tosignal the start of dinner, 30-foot high drapes were pulled back to reveal therest of the Drill Hall. Guests were invited to the dinner space with a swell inmusic performed live by JukeBox Atlanta. A grand stage with sheer drape andlong hanging crystal garlands, flanking screens, and tall statementcenterpieces highlighted by pinspots on each table also drew the guests’attention to dinner.

Theevening’s program featured remarks by Co-Chairs Jacqueline L. Bradley, KathrynC. Chenault, Carol Sutton Lewis, and Dr. Amelia Ogunlesi; Thelma Golden,Director and Chief Curator; and Raymond J. McGuire, Chairman of the Board.First Lady of New York City Chirlane McCray presented the Studio Museum with aMayoral Proclamation to commemorate the Museum’s historic 50 year legacy. The 13thannual Joyce Alexander Wein Prize, supported by George Wein, was presented toLos Angeles-based artist Diedrick Brackens, confirming the rise of aboundary-defying young artist who has emerged within only the past seven years.Nancy Lane, a long-time member of the Studio Museum’s Board of Trustees andcurrently the Chair of the Acquisition Committee, Co-Chair of the BuildingCommittee, Chair of the Program and Collection Committee, and a member of theNominating Committee, was also recognized that evening.

Theevening ended with dancing on the sleek black dance floor to another live setby Jukebox Atlanta, and desserts in what was previously the cocktails space.

The Galaraised over $4 million in support of the Studio Museum’s operating costs,including key initiatives such as the collaborative, community-enriching inHarlem exhibitions and programs.

Empirewas proud to work closely with the Studio Museum and Red Maple Leaf teams todeliver a flawless and memorable evening for The Studio Museum in Harlem.

Formore information on The Studio Museum in Harlem, please visit https://www.studiomuseum.org/​

The Call for Code Initiative is a multi-year, global rallying cry for developers to use their skills and mastery of the latest technologies to drive positive change across the world through the code they create. Call for Code brings startup, academic, and enterprise developers together and inspires them to solve the most pressing societal issues of our time.

In its inaugural year, Empire worked hand-in-hand with Creator David Clark Cause and Founding partner, IBM respectively, to produce the first ever Call for Code Global Prize Celebration at The Regency Ballroom in San Francisco.

For 2018, the Call for Code Global Challenge invited developers to create solutions that significantly improve preparedness for natural disasters and relief when they hit. The response to this first-of-its-kind competition was astounding: Developers from 156 nations took part in the Call for Code, investing an estimated 1 million developer towards a specific mission to alleviate human suffering. The initiative had the support from a cross-section of experts, humanitarian and international organizations, including United Nations Human Rights Office, The American Red Cross and the Linux Foundation.

On arrival guests were met at the entrance by a mounted team of San Francisco first responders. The Awards event kicked off with a cocktail hour which included activations focused on hurricanes, wildfires, and earthquakes. Each activation had three elements – projected video footage of natural disasters, screen content to display developer solutions, and tablet computers with corresponding data. Guests were invited to interact with these activations and discover the impact natural disasters have once they hit.

The stage program began dramatically with an immersive sound environment in the dark that transported the audience into the middle of a natural disaster which led to the introduction of program host, Kate Parker, Meteorologist and Science Reporter at The Weather Channel. Other program participants included Deputy Fire Chief of the City of Palo Alto, Geo Blackshire, Chief of External Relations of UN Human Rights, Laurent Sauveur, Developer Evangelist, JOMA, and Communications and Policy Lead at Project Lantern, Subalekha.

Of the top three finalists, Project OWL was named the winner for their innovative IoT and software solution that keeps first responders and victims connected in a natural disaster. The winner was chosen by a panel of eminent judges that included former President Bill Clinton.

Call for Code concluded with an upbeat performance by Local Natives, who are also committed and interested in coding technology.

“Empire CEO J. B. Miller and his entire production team did a fantastic job creating a dynamic, immersive event for the inaugural Call for Code Global Celebration”, said Call for Code creator David Clark. “My team, as well as the team at IBM were thrilled with the results, yet I was not surprised, as I’ve engaged Empire countless times over the last 18 years, and they delivered, as they always have.”

To learn more and / or join next year’s Call for Code, please visit https://callforcode.org

​From September 20th to 23rd at the Picture Gallery, adidas Japan held an event called “SPEEDFACTORY Tokyo” to introduce the future of shoe making and adidas innovation. Huge shipping containers toured through key cities. Inside, guests experienced the latest data capturing technologies used for customization. Limited models from the AM4 series were designed for London, Paris, NY, LA, Shanghai and Tokyo from AM4 and introduced in Japan for the first time. Empire coordinated local production, venue management, catering, guest takeaways (tote bag customization & on-site printing service), and on-site operation.

The Global HopeCoalition hosted their third annual New York City Gala event at 583 Park onSeptember 27, 2018 in conjunction with the United Nations General Assemblyweek. The event honored Heads of State and everyday heroes who have joinedGlobal Hope in their mission to fight against violent extremism, preservecultural heritage, and build bridges across cultures.

The event kicked offwith a cocktail hour in the Arcade where guests could meet & network. TheKenyatta Beasley Jazz Trio provided lively music.

Guests then moved todinner in the Ballroom where an emotional and inspirational video spotlightedGlobal Hope’s mission. Special Recognition Awards were presented to H.E.Mahamadou Issouou, President of Niger, H.E. Beji Caid Essebsi, President ofTunisia, H.E. Sheikh Hasina, Prime Minister of Bangladesh, and H.E. AlexisTsipras, Prime Minister of Greece for their efforts to promote peace and fightagainst extremism and intolerance in their nations.

The real stars of theevening were the everyday heroes:

· Bochra Belhaj Hmida - A member of the Tunisian parliament, she chairsthe independent Committee on Individual Freedoms and Equality.

· Sherin Khankan - the first female imam in Europe who has led thefoundation of a women-led mosque in Copenhagen called Mariam Mosque.

· Delphine Horvilleur - France’sbest-known woman rabbi, is a leading voice in the fight against hate,anti-Semitism and racism in Europe.

· Omar Elbasheer - thinker, author, publisherand essayist who has emerged as a leading Arab voice against extremism andterror.

· Mamadou Gassama - famous as the “ParisSpiderman”. He was given the medal of the City of Paris, the highestdistinction of the French capital, and was received at Elysee Palace byPresident Emmanuel Macron.

Empire is honored toproduce this moving event in connection with the Global Hope Coalition andGlobal Hope Europe.

​

Every Fall, Hearst publication Harper’s BAZAAR and Fashion Director Carine Roitfeld release the September ICONS issue and host a star-studded, exclusive mega-party that serves as the unofficial kickoff to New York Fashion Week. Attended by the who’s-who of the fashion, beauty and luxury worlds, the must-attend ICONS event hosts over 1000 celebrities and VIP guests and literally takes over all of the spaces of New York’s storied Plaza Hotel.

This year celebrated Carine's fifth ICONS portfolio, which appears in the September issues of all 32 editions of Harper’s BAZAAR worldwide. ‘The First Families of Music’ portfolio, photographed by Mario Sorrenti, features music royalty and their offsprings including Kanye, North & Saint West, Bruce & Jessica Springsteen, Christina Aguilera, Lionel & Nicole Richie, Erykah Badu, Theodora & Alexandra Richards, Steven & Liv Tyler, Mariah Carey, Billy & Bonnie Idol, and Paris Jackson.

The entire event experience was designed based on Roitfeld’s art direction to create a decadent but opulent, rock dynasty downtown chic look. Red florals and sexy black furniture accents were mixed with disruptive, rock-inspired elements like smashed mirrors, lipstick graffiti covered mirrors and overflowing champagne buckets. ICONS began with a grand VIP entrance before thousands of onlookers and flashing paparazzi cameras on Fifth Avenue, continued into a multi-floor red carpet and photo gallery of the September editorial, and then into the elegant Plaza Grand Ballroom where guests lounged on ottomans, sipped champagne, and danced to a special headline performance by Icon Christina Aguilera.

Among the many celebrity and VIP attendees were Carine Roitfeld, Christina Aguilera, Adriana Lima, Alexander Wang, Ashlee Simpson, Bella and Gigi Hadid, Caitlyn Jenner, Coco Rocha, Cardi B, Chance the Rapper, Christie Brinkley, David Copperfield, Devon Windsor, DJ Cassidy, Heidi Klum, Justin Theroux, Kaia Gerber, Karlie Kloss, Kendall Jenner, Kelly Rowland, Mila Jovovich, Nicki Minaj, Paris Hilton, Paris Jackson, Presley Gerber, Rachel Zoe, Tiffany Haddish, Victor Cruz, Victoria Justice, Winnie Harlow, and 21 Savage.

The ICONS event featured interactive activations by eight different partners starting with a red Genesis G70 photo arrival tableau parked in front of The Plaza. Blacked-out revolving doors turned to reveal an elaborate dark red floral structure in the lobby foyer and a gold & silver confetti Instagram wall.

The star-studded red carpet ended with an award-winning FIT x Infor design collaboration and led into a sculptural installation of spinning gold lipstick columns. Other activations included a Fujifilm Instax camera wall, a spinning boudoir photo moment, a Saks Fifth Avenue projected music video stage, Stella Artois rock & roll-inspired bars, a Moët & Chandon bar backed with an amazing champagne tower, a Saks Fifth Avenue Limitless Client Lounge, and two Belvedere Vodka bars with guitar ice sculptures and customized cocktails.

Empire served as overall producer of the evening and was responsible for event design, talent management, staging and technical production, venue and catering logistics coordination, stage management, staffing, front of house logistics and all Partner activations.

As one of the fashion’s most influential events, BAZAAR ICONS garnered unrivaled press attention with over 12.2 billion impressions. ICONS was featured worldwide by top broadcast, newspapers, magazines, social media platforms and every major website. Check out #BazaarICONS

Empire was proud to work closely with the Harper’s BAZAAR ICONS team to deliver a flawless and extraordinary evening.

Co-founded in 2017 by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and Project Everyone, the Goalkeepers event takes place during the annual United Nations General Assembly and brings together heads of state and international Sustainable Development Goals “Goalkeepers” (those spearheading various missions in their local communities) alike. This year’s Goalkeepers focused on the theme of power of youth.

The 2018 Goalkeepers Global Goals Awards were presented at the Rose Theater at Jazz at Lincoln Center on September 25, 2018. Participants included Prime Minister Erna Solberg of Norway, U.N. Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed, UNICEF’s Executive Director Henrietta H. Fore, Bill & Melinda Gates and British singer songwriter, Ed Sheeran.

In partnership with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and UNICEF, the Goalkeepers Awards program celebrated outstanding youth-focused work around the world that is directly linked to the Sustainable Development Goals (the SDGs).

This year’s Campaign Award was presented to Amika George, founder of #FreePeriods, a campaign that works to ensure no girl in the United Kingdom suffers from period poverty.

The Progress Award was presented to Dysmus Kisilu, founder of Solar Freeze, which provides renewable energy solutions to smallholder farmers in Kenya to increase agricultural productivity.

And the Changemaker Award was presented to Nadia Murad, a Yazidi woman who advocates on behalf of her community and survivors of genocide. Just days after the Awards program Nadia Murad was honored with the Nobel Peace Prize.

Loyiso Madinga, stand-up comedian and South Africa correspondent on “The Daily Show with Trevor Noah,” hosted the awards.

After the powerful program concluded guests were invited in the Atrium space to enjoy cocktails and custom food bars. Guests explored and interacted with activations including an art installation / social media backdrop consisting of over 75,000 bottle tops, collected and painted by women in Salvador, Brazil, and an interactive photo booth that encouraged guests to select their favorite goal and overlay video data, to spread the word via social media.

To learn more about the Goalkeepers event, please visit: https://www.gatesfoundation.org/goalkeepers/

Please see the full press release for additional details.

Additional information about the Sustainable Development Goals can be found here: https://sustainabledevelopment.un.org/?menu=1300

On September 20, 2018, Empire had the privilege to serve as producer of the Barclays Center Cares’ gala Shining a Light on Brooklyn for the 2nd year.

Held again at The Liberty Warehouse, which is situated at Red Hook’s historic Pier 41, guests were treated to cocktails al fresco on the promenade with the New York Harbor, the Statue of Liberty, and the downtown Manhattan skyline as their backdrop.

When it came time to signal guests to proceed to dinner, the Brooklyn United Drumline, comprised entirely of schoolkids, marched onto the promenade for a spirited performance before lining the stairs ascending to dinner.

FOX 5 NY’s Rosanna Scotto hosted the evening’s program, which included performances by the Brooklyn Youth Chorus and Dmitry Razumov, Chairman of the Board of Directors for both the Brooklyn Nets and Barclays Center.

BSE Global CEO Brett Yormark honored Brooklyn community icons including Stephen Espinoza, President, Sports & Event Programming Showtime Networks, Inc.; Blue Marble organic ice cream; Ben Lovett, Co-founder & CEO of Communion Music and band member of Mumford & Sons; and National Grid, an electricity, natural gas & clean energy delivery company.

The evening ended with an after party DJ’ed by Jon Blak and featuring a green screen video flip book station and a Gif photo booth.

Barclays Center Cares connects all of the community efforts for the franchises affiliated with Barclays Center: the Brooklyn Nets, New York Islanders, Brooklyn Boxing, Brooklyn Hoops, Brooklyn Family and Brooklyn Show. Its mission is to develop sustainable community programs to improve the lives of kids and families in the areas of culinary arts, sports, sustainability and music education.

Barclays Center Cares supports more than 300 schools, food pantries, homeless shelters, health facilities and non-profit organizations. Every dollar that is donated to Barclays Center Cares goes directly to support programs helping New Yorkers in need.

Empire was proud to be selected by Barclays Center to support their work in the Brooklyn Community.

To learn more about Barclays Center Cares, visit http://www.barclayscenter.com/bccares

September 27, 2018 New York City, The Manhattan Center

On September 27, 2018, Empire was honored to serve as the producer of the 17th annual Samsung Charity Gala, which raises funds for a variety of charitable organizations focused on children’s health, education, and sustainability. This year’s Gala took place in the Grand Ballroom and Hammerstein Ballroom at the Manhattan Center in New York City.

The evening kicked off with a star-studded red carpet, packed with celebrities and athletes including Matthew McConaughey, Camila Alves, Jermaine Dupri, Victor Cruz, Jessica Seinfeld, Gus Kentworthy and more.

Guests entered the foyer which had been transformed into an ethereal registration space – surrounded by a star curtain with floral chandeliers hanging overhead. Guests then proceeded to the Promenade in the Hammerstein Ballroom and upstairs to the Grand Ballroom to enjoy cocktails. The starry theme continued into the Promenade, as guests walked into a navy-colored room with a twinkling ceiling installation and florals cascading down the columns. In the Grand Ballroom, guests’ attention was immediately drawn to a 22-foot high ‘Flornado’ (a tornado-shaped floral installation) that served as the main focal point behind the central bar, while DJ Irie kept the energy pumping.

After cocktails guests made their way into the Hammerstein Ballroom in wonder as the cavernous, historic opera house had been transformed into an elegant banquet hall. At the front of the seating stood an awe-inspiring stage over which stood a 33’ wide X 19’ tall LED screen which showcased animated content and logos of Samsung’s donors and charity partners.

The evening’s program included live “Voice of God” announcements by celebrities Mark Messier and Daymond John, a lively performance by students from Lin-Manuel Miranda’s Hamilton Education Program, remarks by Ryan Seacrest and President & CEO of Samsung North America, Tim Baxter, the presentation of this year’s Champion of Hope award by Peter Hermann, to his wife, Mariska Hargirtay, and a performance by indie band, Fitz and the Tantrums who performed their hits “HandClap,” and “Walker.”

If that wasn’t enough excitement, auctioneer Charles Antin took the stage along with Matthew McConahughey and Victor Cruz to auction various packages including a trip to Texas for ‘Austin’s Biggest Party’ - the Mack, Jack & McConaughey annual charity event, a VIP experience with Victor Cruz at a New York Giants game, and the opportunity to fly to Puerto Rico to see Lin-Manuel Miranda reprise his title role in Hamilton.

The evening was closed out by the one and only Mr. Worldwide, Pitbull, who delivered a high-energy, 45-minute non-stop hit song performance including, “Give Me Everything,” “Don’t Stop The Party,” “Hotel Room Service,” and which concluded with confetti raining down over the audience.

The Samsung Gala raised more than $3 million for its Charity Partners, who included The Boomer Esiason Foundation; City of Hope; Mark Messier Foundation; Gilder Lehrman Institute; Irie Foundation; Lollipop Theater Network; SLAM; Together Rising; Sidewalk Angels; Joyful Heart Foundation; City of Hope; Eric & Jessie Decker Foundation; Christopher + Diana Reeve Foundation; Just Keep Livin, and more.

Empire was proud to once again work closely with the Samsung team to design and deliver a flawless and memorable evening benefitting these worthy causes.

For more information on Samsung’s charitable initiatives, please visit https://www.samsung.com/us/careers/giving-back/

As part of the 2018 United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), UN Women presented their annual HeForShe IMPACT Summit in New York City which convened world leaders, global CEOs, activists and celebrities to introduce the latest groundbreaking solutions to achieve gender equality around the world.

Her Majesty Queen Rania, Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, President of Iceland Guðni Th. Jóhannesson; President of Malawi Arthur Peter Mutharika; President of Finland Sauli Niinistö; Award-winning Actress and UN Women’s Global Goodwill Ambassador, Anne Hathaway, and Actor and Activist, Winston Duke were among those participants who issued a global call to action for gender equality during the daytime program. Musical Artist MILCK also performed.

During this fourth annual event, hosted by Under-Secretary-General of the UN and the Executive Director of UN Women, Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, and MC’ed by Senior Advisor to the Under-Secretary-General & Executive Director of UN Women Elizabeth Nyamayaro, HeForShe focused on three distinct initiatives based on the work of its HeForShe Champions:

• The HeForShe Proven Solution on How to Achieve Parity in Global Leadership: Emerging from the work of HeForShe IMPACT Champion PwC Network, which has moved from 18% female representation on its Global Leadership team to 47% in just 15 months, the solution sets out a roadmap for other organizations to follow.• The HeForShe Emerging Solutions for Gender Equality Report, containing 34 emerging solutions on how to achieve gender equality. These concrete solutions address a wide range of issues, including closing the gender pay gap, ending gender-based and sexual violence, and achieving parity across society.• The HeForShe Male Allies Guide for Gender Equality – Tips for Understanding and Managing Your Emotions, built on a program pioneered by the Government of Finland, a HeForShe IMPACT Champion, to enlist army conscripts to prevent violence against women.

One of the highlights of the event was the official announcement of the newest HeForShe Champions including Chief Executive Standard Bank Group, Sim Tshabalala; and Secretary-General of the World Organization of the Scout Movement, Ahmad Alhendawi.

In the lead-up to the event, HeForShe launched #MorePowerfulTogether, inviting landmarks around the world to turn off half their lights to demonstrate the power lost when women are underrepresented. The IMPACT Summit underlined this message by bringing together champions from all corners of society to demonstrate that we are truly more powerful together.

Empire was once again proud to serve as the overall event producer overseeing and handling the event venue, guest experience, event layout, video and audio, live-streaming, staging, scenic aspects and stage management of the program.

Created by UN Women in 2014, the HeForShe solidarity movement has so far mobilized 1.7 million men as advocates for gender equality.

For more information and to view the livestream visit http://heforshe.org

To celebrate the 100th Anniversary of the storied Brooklyn Army Terminal (BAT), New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC) chose Empire as their partner to develop and execute a community Block Party for thousands of attendees across the massive 4 million square foot complex to commemorate the occasion.

Originally constructed to facilitate the movement of troops and material for World War I, the Brooklyn Army Terminal came into full use during World War II when more than 20,000 military and civilian personnel were employed there. The terminal was the headquarters for the New York Port of Embarkation, a region-wide operation covering more than a dozen facilities that moved 3.2 million troops and 37 million tons of military supplies to fronts across the globe. Arguably the most famous soldier to deploy from the Brooklyn Army Terminal was Elvis Presley. He greeted fans and dozens of photojournalists in September 1958 when he shipped off from Brooklyn to Germany. BAT was closed as an army base in the 1960s, and was reopened in 1986 under the management of NYCEDC for industrial businesses. Since then, NYCEDC has been transforming BAT into the premier, affordable hub for modern industrial businesses, entrepreneurs and working families in NYC.

The first-ever BAT Block Party took place on September 15, 2018, a day filled with fun activities for attendees of all ages. The thousands of attendees enjoyed an array of activities including a yoga class by NYC Yoga, an art exhibit by ArtBuilt and ChaShaMa artists; product demos from BAT-based companies like Uncommon Goods and Lowercase NYC; family-friendly activities like kite making, crafts and book-making; an art installation by Harumi Ori, and an interactive and historic augmented reality experience from NYU Tandon and NYC Media Lab partners. There was also a rock-climbing wall with the NYPD, while and a FDNY fire truck so that kids could get a look inside a real fire engine. BAT tenants, local food vendors, beer companies and several food trucks from the NYC Food Truck Association provided food and beverages.

Vendors included City Saucery, Momo Dressing, Jamrock Jerk, and more. Attendees were able to sit along the waterfront and enjoy great food and drink and watch a Rooftop Film screening on a massive screen at the end of Pier 4.

In addition to developing the overall site plan for the event and working closely with EDC and BAT staff on logistical coordination for all of the participants, Empire provided turn key production for a mobile concert stage. The stage provided a full afternoon of performances from local community dance groups, yoga groups, local community leaders and other local personalities were on hand to help in the celebration.

The day built up to a fabulous evening of entertainment provided by Empire featuring an array of Brooklyn-born and based talent including DJ Natasha Diggs, rising R&B star, Justine Skye and culminating with a headline performance by grammy-nominated rapper, Busta Rhymes.

Empire is proud to work with this New York organization. To learn more about BAT and its facilities visithttps://www.bklynarmyterminal.com

Bustle Digital Group held their inaugural RuleBreakers event outdoors in Prospect Park in Brooklyn on September 22, 2018, featuring performances by Janelle Monae, Sofi Tukker, DJ’s Va$htie and Samantha Ronson and more. Empire produced the mainstage and other entertainment elements at the all-day immersive festival, designed to celebrate women who push boundaries, ignore convention — and of course, break rules—to further women’s rights.

The event was hosted by Sam Jones, who started the day by introducing The Big Quiet, a troupe that creates mass meditations for modern people. Attendees participated in a 30 minute meditation session, which ended with a performance by the Resistance Revival Chorus, a group of dozens of women who join together to sing protest songs celebrating collective joy and resistance.As DJ Va$htie spun, the Miss’ile roller skating dance team performed choreographed and super-fun roller skating dance routines, and guests were also treated to a surprise show by Brooklyn United, a marching band comprised of fifty or so boys and girls ranging in age from 6 – 17. The troupe marched into the audience which quickly made space for them in front of the stage where the kids wowed spectators with their high-energy musicianship and dancing.

Empire provided the staging, audio, and lighting for the mainstage and also coordinated and managed the various entertainment elements throughout the day. We are proud to produce some of the most exciting consumer-facing events on the planet, including the Bustle RuleBreakers event.

When Henry Street Settlement reached their 125th Anniversary, they chose Empire as their partner to mark this incredible milestone.

“Dinner on Henry Street” was held in Sol Lain Park, which is adjacent to the Settlement’s headquarters. This location was chosen to remain close to home and to serve as a reminder of the humble beginnings that led to the extraordinary legacy of this New York City institution.

The evening began in the cocktails tent, where guests marveled at the “Humans of Henry Street” wall installation, featuring personal stories from people whose lives have been affected and transformed by the Settlement’s remarkable work. During cocktails, guests were treated to the sounds of a jazz band that played music that reflected the cultures and immigrants that have left their mark on the Lower East Side over the past 125 years. Youths from The Chinese Free Masons Athletic Club led the way to the dinner tent with a traditional lion dance, engaging attendees and firing up excitement for the coming program.Guests moved inside a stunning tent and were seated to an elegant dinner beneath the stars. To start the dinner program, Henry Street’s Executive Director, David Garza, presented the Lillian Wald Legacy award to Richard Abrons and the Abrons Aranow Family, whose history with the Settlement dates back 122 of their 125 years.David Garza also presented the Heart of Henry Street Awards to longtime supporters Dale Jones Burch and Pilar Crespi Robert & Stephen Robert. The firehouse adjacent to the Settlement’s headquarters is slated to become the Dale Jones Burch Neighborhood Center at Henry Street in 2020.

Board Chairman Scott Swid presented the Heart of Henry Street Awards to corporate partners JPMorgan Chase & Co., Credit Suisse, UPS, The Clark Foundation, and Tiger Foundation. Representatives from each partner organization provided signatures to be etched on a Tiffany & Co. sterling silver tray—a replica of the silver tray that Lillian Wald received for her 70th birthday in 1937. The tray was etched with the signatures of Eleanor and Franklin Roosevelt, other social reformers, and friends of Henry Street.The program featured performances by entertainers from the Abrons Arts Center such as the Voices of Henry Street intergenerational choir, Rajé & Rajé Reborn Dance Troops, and an excerpt from the critically acclaimed production of Jack & The Beanstalk.

The final performance of the night was delivered by legendary actor, recording artist, and activist Yasiin Bey. Bey closed out the evening with an intimate, yet energetic performance that left the tent buzzing with positivity and gratitude.

Working closely with Henry Street’s team for almost a year, Empire managed every detail of this momentous occasion, which included but was not limited to: concept development, programming, permitting, tenting, budgeting, registration, technical production, catering, décor, stage management, and overall guest experience.

Empire is proud to have partnered with Henry Street Settlement to help them celebrate this extraordinary milestone.

To learn more about the Henry Street Settlement and their work, visit https://www.henrystreet.org

Co-founded in 2017 by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and Project Everyone, the annual Goalkeepers event brings together heads of state and international Sustainable Development Goals “Goalkeepers” (those spearheading various missions in their local communities) to chart progress, share best practices and build active communities to help achieve the Goals. This year’s Goalkeepers focused on the theme of power of youth.

The 2nd annual event, scheduled during the United Nations General Assembly on September 26, 2018, was set in the iconic Appel room at Jazz at Lincoln Center. The program was set on a unique LED stage which combined both an LED backdrop wall and an LED floor on which extraordinary animated content had been created to illustrate each session.

Goalkeepers opened with keynote remarks by French President Emmanuel Macron, followed by an intimate and inspiring conversation with Bill and Melinda Gates discussing global progress towards the Goals.

Bill and Melinda Gates each presented their own multi-part sessions, covering topics that included the challenges of eradicating extreme poverty, sustainable innovation, and leveraging the power of youth activism in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.

Among the many other speakers and participants were President Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone, who spoke on his country's vision for human capital development; writer, campaigner, and co-founder of Project Everyone and the Goalkeepers event, Richard Curtis; actor & writer, Stephen Fry; international advocate for women & children's rights and co-founder of the Graça Machel Trust, Graça Machel; President & CEO of the International Rescue Committee (IRC), David Miliband; Nobel Peace Prize laureate and child rights activist, Kailash Satyarthi; chief innovation officer for the government of Sierra Leone, David Sengeh; and Trisha Shetty, lawyer, social activist, and founder of SheSays.

The day long program was hosted by award-winning BBC World News presenter, Nancy Kacungira and NBC News host, Savannah Sellers.

Energizing musical interstitials were provided by a cappella group, Naturally 7 and Kenyan Rapper King Kaka, along with a moving performance by Broadway star Nicolette Robinson to spotlight the plight of child brides. The day opened and ended with energizing performances by 10-year old DJ Switch Ghana.

Between the informative sessions, the 450 guests enjoyed networking time in the Atrium where they also participated in a variety of experiences and activations that included an art installation made of over 75,000 bottle tops collected and painted by women in Salvador, Brazil, and an interactive photo booth that encouraged guests to select their favorite goal and overlay video data, to help spread the word via social media.

The activations were rounded out by the “Goalkeeper’s Library”, where guests were able to select a book from options curated by Bill & Melinda Gates, and other Goalkeepers.

Empire was proud to work with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Project Everyone, and many other partners to present Goalkeepers 2018.

To view the livestream of the full program visit here

To learn more about the Goalkeepers event, please visit: https://www.gatesfoundation.org/goalkeepers/

Additional information about the Sustainable Development Goals can be found here: https://sustainabledevelopment.un.org/?menu=1300

Empire was recently engaged to deliver a very special musical performance for a private anniversary celebration in the rooftop ballroom at the St. Regis Hotel in New York City.

For this intimate event for approximately 100 guests, Empire secured Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award Winner and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame member Diana Ross to perform a 50 minute set of her greatest hits to track with three backing vocalists.

From the first song, "Coming Out", guests were on their feet and spent the entire performance dancing to hits like “Ease on Down the Road,” “Do You Know,” “Upside Down,” “Can’t Hurry Love” and “Stop”.

With her voice and performance in perfect form, the hosts and guests were delighted with the performance and Ms. Ross even welcomed the hosts onstage at the end for a unique musical photo opportunity.

Empire is one of the world’s leading sources of headline entertainment for private events and celebrations.

(Hong Kong, 24 July 2018) TBA announced today that it has formed a strategic alliance with Empire Entertainment Japan K. K. and Empire Entertainment, Inc. (“Empire”), a dynamic brand experience and entertainment group based respectively in Tokyo and New York City.

This strategic alliance fuses the strengths and resources of TBA and Empire, creating a powerful synergistic offering for brands seeking to activate brand strategies in Japan and around the world, with particular emphasis on opportunities relating to the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.

The alliance takes TBA’s rich sports mega-event activation experience, renowned logistics abilities, and the resources and network of the Pico Group and combines them with Empire’s deep expertise in live and broadcast events, experience design, creative-driven activations, talent management, and innovative event technologies. This alliance will offer customers the collective strengths of these highly successful organisations.

TBA and Empire will collaborate closely to create, design and deliver exceptional inbound and outbound brand activations in Japan, China, the U.S. and other international markets. The alliance will apply a focused approach to experience design which will be based on seven core fields of expertise: activations, interactive, spaces, social, film, entertainment and hospitality; enabling alliance clients to deliver outstanding brand experiences through powerful storytelling, creating broader and deeper engagements and memorable brand interactions with their customers.

From early in the bid process, the Tokyo Organising Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games (TOCOG) stated that their aim was to use the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games as a showcase for Japanese technology, with many sponsors investing in innovation in the lead up to 2020. The TBA-Empire alliance is poised to help Olympic-related sponsors and corporations realise this aim through the combined power of its unique, sophisticated and exciting hospitality-and technology-based services, which will include recognition technologies and data intelligence. These will deliver customised content experiences and post-games engagement.

Gregory Crandall, Director of Brand Engagement, Pico+ and TBA Hong Kong commented, “Since 2000, at eight Olympic Games, Pico has provided infrastructure, sponsorship and hospitality, torch relay logistics and other event management services. Working closely with Empire will allow us to deliver optimal services for both Japanese clients and clients seeking to activate in Japan through Empire’s deep understanding of Japanese culture, intimate local knowledge, and access to locations and resources.”

Ted Miller, President and CEO, Empire Entertainment Japan K. K. said: “Tokyo has already eclipsed all previous Olympic Games in terms of sponsor support, with reports of almost USD three billion committed and more partners expected. The people, expertise and resources of the Empire-TBA alliance position us to support Olympic sponsors, from Worldwide Partners to Local Official Supporters; helping them to make the most of their investments during the Olympic Games and beyond as they ride the wave of interest in the Games with engaging and memorable brand experiences.”

About TBA

TBA is part of the Pico Group. A Pico+ company, this full-service creative brand activation agency specialises in below-the-line engagements for events, exhibitions and experiential marketing, delivering results from strategy through to execution. TBA uses an insight-based approach to inspire their clients’ target audiences, create interest in brands and deliver innovative solutions to maximise returns.

Pico+ addresses the challenges arising from a constantly shifting marketing landscape. Through integrated engagement methodologies, Pico+ seamlessly blends digital, mobile, gaming, social media and other technology-based modes of engagement with real-life experiences to deliver impressive ROI.

www.pico-plus.com

http://www.tbacreative.net

About Pico

Pico is a global leader in Total Brand Activation specialising in engaging people, creating experiences and activating brands. Innovative, insightful and inspired, Pico brings brands to life and creates experiences – from strategy to execution. Leveraging a track record in experience design that spans half a century, Pico creates immersive audience engagements which harness the power of technology, content and many production services – delivering extraordinary experiences to millions of people around the world.

The Pico Group was named Asia Pacific’s Best Event Agency at the 2018 CEI Readers’ Choice Awards. The Pico Group won the Bronze award in the B2B Agency category and Bronze in the Event Agency category at Marketing Magazine’s Agency of the Year Awards 2018 in Hong Kong. The Group was the Best Marketing Website winner at the WebAwards 2017, organised by the US-based Web Marketing Association. In North America, the Pico Group has been listed as one of Special Events magazine’s 50 Top Event Companies since 2012.

Pico Far East Holdings Limited has been listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange since 1992 (HKEx Stock Code: 752). Our associate company, Pico (Thailand) Public Company Limited was listed on Thailand’s MAI in 2004 (Stock Code: PICO).

www.pico.com

​When the Paul and Daisy Soros Fellowships for New Americans decided to bring together their community of scholars for the 20th anniversary, their leadership and Board of Trustees called on Empire to serve as their production partner for this important milestone.

The 20 Year Reunion would host over 500 Fellows, family members and trustees and was strategically designed as a multi-day retreat consisting of social, educational and conversational sessions and activities. Its goals included recognizing and honoring the contributions of immigrants and children of immigrants to the United States, paying tribute to the founders, Paul and Daisy Soros, and fostering the sense of community and direct connections between fellows. Creating this sense of community would be a challenge given the attendees separation by class year, schools attended, geographical residency distribution, national background and areas of professional interest. To accomplish this cohesion, event programming was built around common themes of immigration, leadership, innovation and excellence and targeted to sophisticated guests across multiple cohorts and disciplines within various age ranges and professions.

After an expansive search across the U.S., The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs was chosen as the venue. The Broadmoor provided a central U. S. location that made travel accessible for each guest, a location free of outside distractions and an abundance of facilities to achieve the objectives of the program.

In the middle of Immigrant Heritage Month, the weekend kicked off on Friday with Fellow arrivals and registration, followed by a welcome reception and dinner. The reception took place at Cheyenne Lodge, a remote mountainside location with a warm ambiance and breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains and City of Colorado Springs. This quintessential Colorado environment allowed guests to be fully immersed in their surroundings and partake in an interactive dinner experience with intimate “camp fire” conversations on the cozy outdoor patio surrounding fire pits. The setting provided guests the opportunity to truly enjoy a retreat away from their everyday lives and even provided an ideal platform for a drone-shot class photo at sunset.

Saturday began with morning elective activities including yoga, a nature walk, and a guided run through The Broadmoor’s impeccable property. Guests enjoyed breakfast prior to attending the opening keynote session by Viet Thanh Nguyen a Vietnamese-American novelist, followed by a discussion with 2007 Paul & Daisy Soros Fellow, Michelle Kuo. The keynote session was followed by a series of programmed breakout sessions led by members of the Fellowship community; topics covered academic, social, scientific, and political topics, and more. In the afternoon, guests enjoyed some free time and took advantage of the reunion’s awe-inspiring location by engaging in outdoor activities such as hiking and excursions to iconic Colorado Springs landmarks.

Saturday evening’s highly-anticipated recognition dinner honored the founders, Paul and Daisy Soros, The Soros Family and celebrated the legacy of the Fellowship community. The cocktail reception was dedicated to the Directors Emeritus of the organization, Warren Ilchman and Stanley Heginbotham, where guests sipped specialty cocktails such as the ‘Stanhattan’ and the ‘Warren Sparkler’. The dinner tribute program was hosted by Alex Iftimie (2009 Fellow) and Dena Simmons (2010 Fellow) and featured a 20th Anniversary Highlight video, musical performances by David Adewumi (2017 Fellow), Paul Kwak (2006 Fellow), and Elizabeth Joy Roe (2005 Fellow). The pinnacle of the evening was the closing remarks given by Mrs. Daisy M. Soros, whose heartfelt remarks created the shared moment for the Fellowship and instilled its legacy in each attendee. The evening closed with an epic dance party with cocktails, a Paul & Daisy Soros Fellowship photo booth, and live performance by Flare Band.

To complete the weekend, Sunday offered a causal brunch and closing remarks and a weekend highlights video produced in collaboration between Empire and HutchNYC. After brunch, Fellows engaged in Sunday morning’s ‘unconference sessions’. These sessions allowed Fellows to generate and lead discussions on the topics of their choosing like ‘How to be an Instagram Expert’ prior to guests departing on Sunday afternoon.

The Paul and Daisy Soros Fellowships for New Americans 20th Anniversary Reunion was a celebration of diverse cultures and the incredible achievements of the past 20 years and the event was a touchstone to the approximately 625 Fellows that make up the growing Fellowship community.

Paul and Daisy Soros Fellows themselves played a large role to ensure the reunion’s events were engaging and open to all Fellows and spouses. The event featured a stand-alone app (Attendify) that allowed guests to view the event schedule and served as a social media platform for attendees to share moments, post photos, and directly communicate with each other throughout the weekend.

Empire worked closely with the Soros family, The Paul and Daisy Soros Fellowships team, the Fellows, and the various departments at The Broadmoor for almost a year to plan and execute each component of the weekend and its individual events and components. Empire managed every detail of this momentous occasion, which included concept development, programming, venue acquisition, budgeting, registration, script writing, screen content production, technical production, catering, décor, guest travel and accommodations, and overall guest experience. In addition to the live events, Empire and Hutch NYC partnered to create the 20th Anniversary video and weekend highlights video to promote engagement by the Fellowship community in extending the brand value of the Fellowship.

Empire is proud to have partnered with The Paul and Daisy Soros Fellowships for New Americans to produce their 20 Year Reunion to celebrate the Fellows, the tremendous accomplishments of these New Americans to achieve leadership in their chosen fields and to partake of the American dream. Empire is also honored to have had the opportunity to recognize the legacy of Mr. Paul Soros, Mrs. Daisy Soros and their Family

Empire is a leading producer of high-level events for many of the world’s leading educational institutions, associations, and foundations.

To learn more about the Paul & Daisy Soros Fellowship for New Americans visit https://www.pdsoros.org.

In June 2018, Playworks celebrated their fourth annual New York Get in theGame Gala recognizing the MostValuable Principal Atiba Buckman of Newark Public Schools’ Speedway Academies. This school year, acclaimed nonprofitPlayworks will provide safe, healthy and inclusive play for nearly 900,000children in more than 1,800 elementary schools nationwide which reduces bullying,increases physical activity, improves learning and promotes social and emotionalskills.

The evening featured remarks from Executive Director ofPlayworks, Kim McCall, Founder and CEO Jill Vialet, a live auction led by CKSwett raising an all-time high of $225,000, entertainment from musician,actress and social media influencer Rebecca Black, recess games, a friendly gameof Ro Sham Bo, plus great food and drink. Funds raised support the expandingefforts of Playworks to bring the power of play to every girl and boy in NewYork and beyond.

To help make this event a success, Empire produced thefundraiser once again at the elegant Tribeca Rooftop, where we transportedguests from the ballroom to the playground on the transformed rooftop space.Attendees enjoyed stunning Manhattan views and experienced play throughsophisticated and immersive activations of traditional recess games like FourSquare and Switch, along with life sized installations of Checkers, Jenga andConnect 4.

Working closely with Playworks, Empire served as the eventproducer, managing elements including venue, décor, technical production, andperforming talent. Empire is a leading producer of fundraising events and weare honored that Playworks continues to work with us to produce successfulGalas.

To support or learn more about Playworks, please visit www.playworks.org

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

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

Once seated in Alice Tully Hall, the evening’s host, award winning actress Jane Krakowski, kicked off the star-studded award program in her signature style. Her humorous opening monologue covered the fragrance industry and this year’s nominee achievements.

Notable program participants included Hall of Fame Honoree and renowned perfumer Ann Gottlieb, Lifetime Achievement Perfumer Olivier Cresp, and Fragrance Industry Gamechanger Frédéric Malle.

Celebrity presenters and attendees included Denis Ferenc, Josephine Skriver, Jay Fielden, Nina Dobrev, Jerry Vittoria, Jason Wu, Derek Hough, Nina Garcia, Rita Ora, Naomi Campbell, Leonard Lauder, Olivia Palermo, and Chanel Iman.

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

The evening ended with an after party held at the Lincoln Ristorante where guests danced to music by fashion-favorite DJ Coleman.

The Fragrance Foundation Awards bring together virtually every luxury and consumer brand in the fragrance industry including Estée Lauder, Atelier Cologne, Dior, Coach, Coty, Ralph Lauren, Tom Ford, Giorgio Armani, Tory Burch, Marc Jacobs, Jo Malone, Maison Margiela, Victoria’s Secret, Michael Kors, Givenchy, Elizabeth Arden, LVMH, Puig, Dolce & Gabbana, Chanel, Cartier, Hermès, Lancôme, diptyque Paris, Revlon, NEST, Frédéric Malle, Cire Trudon, YSL and Gucci.

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

When DartmouthCollege launched its $3 billion capital campaign entitled The Call to Lead, themost ambitious in its 250 year history, their leadership and Board of Trusteeschose Empire as their creative and production partner.

The Call to Lead waslaunched as part of a comprehensive, multi-platformcommunications strategy which included a series of highly experientialevents for generations of alumni in New York, Hanover, NH, and San Francisco.These events would need to both inspire emotional responses to renew theconnections among the alumni and their ambitions for their alma mater, but theywould also need to appeal on a rational basis by illustrating its far-reachingplans to advance Dartmouth’s distinctive liberal arts experience, fuel researchdiscoveries that improve the human condition around the globe and preparestudents—across disciplines and programs—for lives of leadership in a complex,interconnected world.

On April 27,over 500 Dartmouth alumni, parents, and friends gathered for the first of the campaignlaunch events at the Duggal Greenhouse in the Brooklyn Navy Yard, withspectacular views of New York Harbor and the New York City skyline. Arriving byferry as well as by vehicles, guests were greeted by a boisterous musicalwelcome performed by an ensemble of Dartmouth musicians and dancers.

Passing throughan efficient check-in, guests then made their way down a reception corridorlined with hedges hung with placards featuring quotes by celebrated alumni, includingDaniel Webster and Shonda Rhimes. At the end of the corridor guests emerged intoan expansive representation of Dartmouth’s Green with pathways running between elegant,scale model replicas of iconic Dartmouth buildings like Baker Tower andDartmouth Hall. In the center of the Green stood a soaring wooden bar, built toresemble the bonfire that is part of every Fall Homecoming. Guests enjoyed aDartmouth-inspired menu of appetizers and wines produced by Dartmouthalumni-owned wineries.

At theconclusion of the cocktail hour, a spontaneous, flash mob-style musicalperformance by a 20-person student & alumni ensemble led guests to a gianttraveler curtain which opened to reveal a massive dining hall set with banquettables for 500. Surrounding the room was a monumental, 270 degree projectionsystem that created an immersive environment, placing attendees at the centerof Dartmouth Green.

Once gueststook their seats, a powerfully-evocative Marchof Time video counted down 249 years of Dartmouth’s illustrious history andestablished the theme of leadership, setting the stage for President Philip J.Hanlon’s outline of the vision for the future of Dartmouth and the formalannouncement of The Call to Lead.

JournalistSusan Dentzer and actress Connie Britton, both Dartmouth alumnae, hosted theevents in Brooklyn and San Francisco, respectively. Students and faculty sharedstories of collaboration spanning disciplines, generations and geographies thathave led to world-changing impact. The evenings were also filled with surprisemoments, stunning announcements of substantial support and donations by manygenerous alumni.

Between stagesegments, meals were served with precision timing as guests were treated to avisual extravaganza of HD footage and high resolution imagery of the Dartmouthcampus through the seasons.

Both eventsculminated with Laurel Richie, Board of Trustees Chair, recapping Dartmouth’sstrategic priorities and energizing the crowd to act and answer The Call to Lead. At the conclusion ofRichie’s remarks, the musical performers appeared once again for a finaléperformance, inspired by the Dartmouth Bonfire tradition and enhanced withsurround visuals of the burning bonfire through the generations. Thisperformance led guests back to the reception area, which had been transformedduring dinner into a future-forward afterparty with young alumni DJs, greenscreen photo booths and a variety of themed activities.

Following theimmensely successful New York event, Empire transported the entire event acrossthe country by truck and restaged everything at San Francisco’s Fort MasonFestival Pavilion just five days later – an ambitious and precision undertaking.

Empire workedclosely with several Dartmouth departments and teams, as well as with students and volunteers, as well as creative, communications,production and event partners to plan and execute the events. Empire oversawevery detail including concept development, messaging, venue acquisition,budgeting, registration, scripting, screen content production, technicalproduction, catering, permitting, security, scenic, décor, staffing and guestlogistics & experience.

In addition tothe live events, Empire and Dartmouth jointly created an extensive body ofvisual assets for display at the events, to promote social media sharing and engagementby alumni, for repackaging and deployment in a concise 10-city road show andfor web & email marketing to be used over the extended campaign.

Empire is proudto have partnered with Dartmouth to produce these campaign events which helpedto motivate over $100 million in commitments during the five days between theNew York and San Francisco events.

Empire is aleading producer of high-level events, both on and off campus, for Ivy Leagueschools and many of the world’s leading educational institutions.

For moreinformation on Dartmouth’s Campaign, visit https://calltolead.dartmouth.edu/

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When MVD Inc, an innovative boutique experiential marketing production company, contacted Empire on Monday, May 28 asking what we were doing on Thursday, May 31 and whether we could help launch an album for a world-renowned musical artist, we couldn’t wait to find out more info!

Fast forward three days later 300+ journalists, celebrities, music industry executives, and local Wyoming residents convened on a ranch in Jackson Hole, WY to take in a musical experience they’d never forget.

Beginning in New York and Los Angeles on the morning of May 31, Empire and MVD worked with travel partners get 300+ guests on multiple private aircraft. Once in Wyoming, guests were shuttled to multiple properties and then to the Diamond Cross Ranch.

As horses roamed around the majestic property, surrounded by snow-capped mountains, guests were treated to BBQ, drinks and to keep them warm throughout the night ahead.

When it was time for the Listening Event to begin, guests were asked to head towards the bonfire, where Chris Rock kicked off the festivities. Following his remarks, the artists 24-Min album played, as the world-renowned artist and guests, including Nas, Big Sean, 2 Chainz, Lil Yachty, Desiigner, Teyana Taylor, Pusha T, Kid Cudi, Luka Sabbat, Scooter Braun, Peter Rosenberg, DJ Clue, Ty Dolla $ign, and Jonah Hill, danced and celebrated the release.

The next morning, guests were transferred back to the airport, where awaiting jets returned them home. While at the same time, coverage of the event saturated the news and digital channels worldwide.

For this event, Empire and the MVD Inc team worked with many other partners to pull off an unforgettable event within 72 hours.

Empire is a leading producer of music industry events and performances and has produced album launches for artists including Alicia Keys, Carlos Santana, Wyclef Jean, Barry Manilow and more.

​The 22^nd Annual Webby Awards were held at Cipriani Wall Street on Monday, May 14, 2018, with winners & presenters including David Letterman, FKA twigs, Adam Sandler, Liam Neeson, Laura Linney, Mitchell Baker, Kara Swisher, and David Harbour from “Stranger Things.” Honoring the best of the internet, the Webby Awards is renowned for limiting award recipients’ speeches to 5-words or less. This year’s Awards was once again a star studded affair and for the 14^th consecutive year, Empire Entertainment served as producer.

Host Amber Ruffin, from Late Night With Seth Meyers, set the tone with a fantastic internet-centric monologue before introducing presenters and winners to the stage. In addition to those above, these included Dominique Fishback, Silicon Valley’s Jimmy O. Yang, Vicente Fox, Jesse Williams, David Chang, Steven Soderbergh, NBA all-star Isiah Thomas, NFL Super Bowl Champion, CNN’s Laurie Segall, Jennifer Ferrin and Webby Person of the Year award recipient, Susan Fowler.

Winners’ 5-word speeches alternated from poignant (FKA twigs “Treat people kindly. Start now.”) to protest (“Net Neutrality, you greedy motherfu*X#ers!” by David Harbour), to spur of the moment irreverence (Adam Sandler’s rave about Cipriani’s dinner, “How about that fu*#ing chicken??!!”).

The most memorable acceptance of the night arguably came from Late Night legend, David Letterman, who after saying “Thank you”, created a theatrically dramatic pause, removing his glasses, seeming to cry, before finally adding “tears of joy” to describe his emotions about winning a Webby award.

But the most memorable moment of the night wasn’t an award at all. The Webbys recognized the March For Our Lives movement, and three of the student survivors of recent school shootings were introduced to the stage. The students chose not to receive the traditional trophy, spurring the Webbys to also break tradition - allowing them to speak as much as they wanted. Their brave and insightful remarks were a call for change in gun laws, and they walked off the stage to a roaring standing ovation from the crowd.

Attendees were mesmerized by a spectacular set designed by David Korins Design (scenic designer of Broadway’s “Hamilton”) as they ate a sumptuous meal served to perfection to the maximum capacity audience that filled Cipriani Wall Street.

Empire is proud of our longstanding relationships with the Webby Awards and are honored to have served as their producing partner since 2005.

The 22^nd Annual Webby Awards can be viewed in full here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jiq-n3lopZw

May 2018. Pier 36, New York City

The Smart Cities New York is North America’s leading global conference on Smart Cities and explores the intersection of technology and urban life while bringing together businesses and institutions to discuss the pioneering urban solutions that are defining and transforming cities around the world.

SCNY18 focused specifically on the power of cities and the importance of citizen participation in making cities ‘smart.’ SCNY18: Powered by People covered a broad range of important topics including AI, cybersecurity, cloud computing, autonomous vehicles, technology for the disabled, drones, rooftop urban agriculture, shared housing, transportation, renewable energy and infrastructure.

For this year’s second edition, Smart Cities New York hosted over 200 speakers, 32 panels, 30 workshops, 12 keynotes, 16 Lightning Rounds, 6 tours and numerous networking events and receptions throughout New York City.

SCNY18 also welcomed Mayors from around the world. This year’s event was opened by New York Cities’ very own Mayor Bill de Blasio and Chicago Mayor, Rahm Emanuel, who discussed everything from intelligent streetlights to smarter education with author Bruce Katz. Other participants included the Mayors of Atlanta, Denver, Vancouver, Rotterdam, Director of the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network Jeffrey Sachs and Gudni Johannesson, President of the Republic of Iceland.

The multi-day event also featured a cutting edge exposition, workshops, panels, parties, and a multitude of public events drawing attendees from around the world. An actioned-packed day of workshops, meet ups and discussions was held on May 8 at the Brooklyn Navy Yard and NYU Tandon. With more than 600 attendees, the Smart Cities New York workshop day featured outstanding sessions from The Nordics, The Consulate Kingdom of the Netherlands, C40 Cities Climate Leadership Group, NYC Mayor's Office of the Chief Technology Officer, Civ:Lab, Oracle and others.

On May 9 & 10 the main events at Pier 36 featured four keynote and panel discussion stages running non-stop. Some of the highlights included A CONVERSATION WITH GLOBAL MAYORS ON RESILIENCE with Gregor Robertson, Mayor, City of Vancouver, Ahmed Aboutaleb, Mayor, City of Rotterdam, Keisha Lance-Bottoms, Mayor, City of Atlanta, Michael Berkowitz, President, 100 Resilient Cities Pioneered by The Rockefeller Foundation. CITY POSSIBLE: A NEW MODEL FOR URBAN DEVELOPMENT with Hany Fam, EVP Enterprise Partnerships, Mastercard. MAYOR RAHM EMANUEL IN CONVERSATION WITH BRUCE KATZ, Co-Founder, New Localism Advisors. IN CONVERSATION WITH PRESIDENT GUDNI TH. JÓHANNESSON, President, Republic of Iceland and Ann Davlin, Origination Manager, True Green Capital Management. Jeffrey Sachs and Mayor Steve Benjamin, presented a highly anticipated conversation on the Future of Cities.

Simultaneously, an exhibit hall and Business to Business trade show took place which included interactive demonstrations and participation from sponsors ranging from Mastercard, Verizon, Panasonic, Hitachi, Diakin, Shimiz Corporation (TEAM JAPAN), Microsoft, Citi, Esri, Engie, AECom, Urban X, The Consulate General of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, The Consulate General of Norway, and the Consulate General of Sweden among many others. At the expo, lead sponsor Mastercard showcased its Cities Possible program with consumer insights and real-time digital content and interact with its Priceless station and VR experience in the world around them.

Other partners included Politico, LYFT, NYC & Co., The Brooklyn Navy Yard, Citibike, NewLab and Newsy among many others. Empire served as overall producer and production company of Smart Cities New York and was responsible for project management, production design, technical production, staging, production of digital media content (with reelworks.org), liaison with all exhibiting sponsors, staffing, catering and café area and the Brella Networking Area.

Additionally, Empire’s team worked closely with Global Futures Group, Emergence Creative, Mastercard, Hitachi, Diakin, Panasonic, Shimizu Corporation, Verizon, Citi and other partners, including many international groups and Consulate Generals to facilitate each partner’s activation and to supervise the overall guest experience.

Empire is proud to have once again served as producer of Smart Cities New York and to have supported this important thought leadership platform.

Smart Cities New York is Presented by the Global Futures Group, Emergence Creative and Smart World Productions LLC.

To learn more about Smart Cities New York and to explore participation in 2019 visit https://smartcitiesny.com/

Screenvision Media, a national leader incinema advertising,pitchedthe real impact of cinema’s reach to CMOs, planners, buyers and brands atthe company’s May 2018 Upfront event at the PlayStation Theater in New YorkCity. The Upfront demonstrated how Screenvision Media connects brands to everypart of the moviegoer’s journey, driven by data and technology, interactivityand integration.

To bring the “Real Impact” theme to life,Empire developed a design and concept, working closely with Screenvision Media,to transform New York City’s PlayStation Theater into a fully immersive theaterand after-party experience for its high-level attendees. The event wouldinclude an arrival experience, a main stage presentation, and an experientialafter-party featuring activations based on forthcoming major motion picturereleases.

During the main presentation, ScreenvisionMedia executives, including CEO John Partilla, CRO Katy Loria, and EVP ofNational Ad Sales, Christine Martino, provided proof of thestrength of their storytelling platform and established why cinema is anessential element in a brand’s media mix in an age of increasing mediafragmentation. The presentation also highlighted the growing strength ofcinema as evidenced by recent record-breaking box office successes of “BlackPanther” and “Avengers: Infinity Wars” as well as providinga preview of the strong outlook for 2018 and 2019.

The carefully scripted stage presentation, delivered in frontof a cinema-sized screen, featured substantial motion graphics as well as threehumorous videos inspired by iconic scenes from “Forrest Gump”, “It” and “WhenHarry Met Sally”. The videos were created by Screenvision Media’s in-housebranded content agency, 40 Foot Solutions.

At the conclusion of the presentation came a dramatic reveal to the after party. Guests were welcomed to a large,inviting space featuring a central bar, innovative catering stations byCreative Edge, AR and VR activations, interactive photo booths, arcade gamesand immersive, experiential activations featuring five of the largest motionpicture blockbusters scheduled to be released in the coming year.

On the existing concert stage was an animatedcityscape environment representing SONY’s “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse”(release date: December 18, 2018); SONY’s “Venom” starring Tom Hardy andMichelle Williams (release date: October 5, 2018) was represented with avignette that enabled guests to climb aboard the actual motorcycle featured inthe film and share an animated photo of themselves; Marvel Studios’ “CaptainMarvel” (release date: March 6, 2019) had its own super hero lounge while WarnerBrothers’ “Aquaman” starring Jason Momoa (release date: December 21, 2018) hadits own Aquaman-themed bar and tattoo station. Finally, Fox Studio’s “BohemianRhapsody” (release date: November 2, 2018) featured a lip sync booth whereguests could don ’80s wigs and sing the operatic portion of Bohemian Rhapsody.Vignettes also included custom guest activities, signature cocktails, andcustom t-shirt and bag screen printing.

Empire is proud to have once again workedclosely with Screenvision Media’s team to reach their advertisers with acreative, experiential upfront that provided a memorable experience for the mediainfluencers in attendance.

Empire was responsible for all event detailsincluding concept, venue acquisition, layout and scenic design, catering,staging, sound, lighting, video projection, graphics, furnishings, staffing andpartner/studio coordination.

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Celebrating its10^th anniversary, the Shorty Awards continue to honor the bestinfluencers, celebrities, brands and agencies on social media, across Snapchat,Instagram, YouTube, Twitter and other platforms. The show returned toPlayStation Theater in the heart of Times Square in New York City for theceremony on April 15, amplified by the sponsorship of DIRECTV NOW.

Over 800influencers, brands, agencies and guests packed the theater for the ceremony,which featured a cocktail reception, a seated dinner and an after party at theMoxy Hotel. The staged event streamed live on YouTube and DIRECTV NOW’s Twitterfeed to over 9 million viewers (and counting!) internationally, as fans allover the globe tuned in to watch their favorite social media stars.

Kicking off thefestivities, Queer Eye’s Fab 5 hosted the teal carpet, interviewing the socialmedia royalty as they arrived at the event.

Singer,songwriter, and actress Keke Palmer hosted the show and kept the audienceentertained while presenters including Casey Neistat, Olympic gold medalistLaurie Hernandez, Ronny Cheing & Roy Wood Jr. of the Daily Show gave outawards.

This was themost competitive show to date, as over 7 million votes poured in from fans allover the world, a record for participation. Winners of the signature Whale-TailTrophy included MKBHD, Backpack Kid, Spencer Pratt, Fuck Jerry, Vlog Squad, andTopher Brophy. JJ Watt was honored withthe Shorty Phenom Award for his philanthropic work for hurricance victims and EricaGarner received an award posthumously for the Best in Activism category.

Rising star,musical artist Betty Who amazed the crowd with energetic performances of hersongs “Mama Say”, “Ignore Me”, and an energizing cover of Donna Lewis’ song “ILove You Always Forever”.

Empire is proud topartner with The Shorty Awards for our fourth year and we congratulate all the 2018 winners, as well as an even larger congratulations to TENsuccessful years of the Shorty Awards!

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Empire was proud to work with Samsung who hosted some of the brightest, young minds for the final round of their annual Samsung Solve for Tomorrow Contest. The nationwide competition encourages students to use STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics) to address real-world problems in their local communities. Students from the top ten schools flew in to New York from all over the country to pitch their innovations to a panel of esteemed judges.

After a nine-month journey through various phases of the contest, the final event kicked off at Samsung 837, a cultural destination and digital playground. Hosting the event were Michele Mosa, Senior Manager of Corporate Citizenship at Samsung Electronics America and Kyle Hill, a science editor/ YouTube educator. They introduced the co-founder of the program, David Steel, Executive Vice President and Head of Corporate Affairs at Samsung Electronics America, to welcome contestants and their supporters. Students then presented their project ideas and prototypes to a panel of esteemed judges. The themes of kindness and empathy, health and safety, and environmental solutions led the winning ideas for the finalists, including an app-based outdoor home fire extinguishing sprinkler system to contain wildfires and a device that allows first responders to safely collect hazardous needles left behind by opioid and other drug users. These student inventions show how STEAM learning can take a simple idea to the next level, empowering students to reach a new potential and make a difference.

The event was also live-streamed so friends and families were able to watch from their home states. To wrap up a great day of presentations, Samsung surprised the students with a video announcement from Tim Baxter, President and CEO of Samsung Electronics North America, informing them they would be featured on Good Morning America to announce the winners. Following the big reveal, students boarded "The Ride" for a personalized bus tour around Manhattan, followed by a celebratory dinner at a top Italian restaurant in New York.

On Tuesday evening, the students and teachers were invited to unwind and mingle at a Samsung loft location. Students took photos in the Samsung low-light photo booth and journeyed into space using the new Samsung Virtual Reality Headsets, all while sipping on custom mocktails. Each of the ten national finalist schools were awarded with $50,000 in Samsung technology, and the top three winners each won a total of $150,000 in Samsung technology for their schools.

Empire was thrilled to collaborate with Samsung Solve for Tomorrow by helping coordinate the final event at Samsung 837 and fun evening at the loft. For most students, it was their first visit to the Big Apple and an experience they will never forget. The future sure looks bright to us!

To learn more about the student's innovations, click the links below: https://news.samsung.com/us/2018-samsung-solve-pitch-event-live-streaming-video/Good Morning America Winners Reveal: https://news.samsung.com/us/2018-Samsung-Solve-for-Tomorrow-National-Winner-Announcement/

During the past severalyears AMC and Empire have partnered to create large-scale, groundbreakingUpfront events worthy of their extraordinary programming. This year, similar to2016, AMC opted to host a series of intimate, bespoke culinary events in NewYork and Chicago designed to present a "tasting menu" of AMC Networks’award-winning programming. Each event was intimate, elegant and created theperfect environment for conversations between the guests, the programming andthe network hosts.

Six of the upfronts tookplace at Chefs Club, a trendy SoHo restaurant that welcomes culinarymasterminds into their state-of-the-art chef’s kitchen. AMC Networks took fulladvantage of this unique space to provide guests a once in a lifetime culinaryexperience, with menus curated and prepared by some of the world’s best-knownchefs including: Chris Santos, executive chef and owner of The Stanton Social, Beauty& Essex and Vandal; Scott Conant, James Beard Award Winner and co-owner ofFusco; Alex Guarnaschelli, executive chef at Butter Midtown and author ofOld-School Comfort Food; Tyler Florence, owner of Wayfare Tavern; and TomColicchio, recipient of five James Beard Awards and owner of Gramercy Tavern,Craft and Colicchio & Sons.

Each event began with acocktail hour and passed hors d’oeuvres during which AMC Networks executivesand ad sales teams mingled with advertisers and agency personnel. Followingcocktails, guests were seated for welcome remarks from Josh Sapan, President& CEO of AMC Networks and Ed Carroll, COO of AMC Networks. Charlie Collier,President & GM of AMC, SundanceTV & AMC Studios, and Scott Collins, Presidentof National Ad Sales, AMC Networks, teased new programming coming to AMC, BBCAmerica, Sundance, IFC, and WeTV. Guests also had the opportunity to previewnew shows on screens positioned throughout the dining room. As dessert wasserved, each chef gave a personalized introduction to the course.

In addition to AMCNetwork execs and celebrity chefs, show talent from across all five networksalso attended the various events, giving clients the opportunity to minglewith the stars. Attendees included Norman Reedus, Julianna Margulies, PaulGiamatti, Kevin Smith, Danay Garcia,and Eli Roth.

In addition to the sixUpfronts at Chefs Club, another event was held at Boka Resturant in Chicago.

Empire was proud to workclosely with AMC Networks to create these exclusive culinary experiences.Empire served as overall producer of the event series, secured the venues,contracted and worked with each chef on menu and logistics, provided technicalproduction and décor, and executed all needs for the programs.

Empire is a leadingproducer of standout Upfront events and key business-to-business presentations.

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Since 1967, Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) has workedtirelessly to solve the world’s biggest environmental problems. To celebrate 50years of “finding the ways that work”, EDF gathered longtimesupporters, partners, and associates to thank them and outline the pivotalsteps on the path ahead.

On the heels of the success of the first celebration in SanFrancisco in the fall of 2017, the second installment of 50^thAnniversary celebrations occurred at the newly re-designed and re-opened ZiegfeldBallroom in New York City on April 17, 2018.

Over 300 guests enjoyed mingling during a cocktail hour,complete with a full bar, hors d’oeuvres, and a live jazz trio.

Guests then moved into the ballroom for the stage programand seated dinner. Following the over-arching theme of the “Four Waves” ofenvironmentalism, host Margaret Hoover (author, activist, and CNN analyst)introduced two original videos generated specifically for the occasion: thefirst documenting the growth of the environmental movement and EDF’s role init, and the second focusing on EDF’s work harnessing the power of partnershipsto achieve environmental progress.

To further drive home the message of impact, EDF welcomed arancher, farmer, and fisherman to share stories on how EDF programs havedirectly benefited them and their industries, while advancing conservation forspecies and ecosystems. As a surprise unveiling, the fisherman (Buddy Guindon),announced to the crowd that the entrée they had just enjoyed was from his veryown catch from the Gulf of Mexico.

The keynote speech was given by former New York CityMayor Michael Bloomberg, who discussed his partnership with EDF during histenure as mayor and since he left office.

EDF President, Fred Krupp, who has led the organization forthe past 34 years, rounded out the night with an impactful speech. His messageacknowledged the challenges ahead, but offered hope that EDF – with the help ofpeople in the room and others like them – could continue to make progress onthe most pressing environmental problems facing the world.

Empire is proud to have produced this anniversary event andsupports the work and mission of the EDF.

To learn more about the Environmental Defense Fund, pleasevisit www.edf.org.

Empire was proud to once again serve as the producer of the TIME 100 Gala, which took place at the Frederick P. Rose Hall, Home of Jazz at Lincoln Center. Each year, TIME publishes the TIME 100: a list of the most influential people in the world. To celebrate this highly anticipated release, TIME hosts an exclusive gala event in New York City attended by current and past TIME 100 honorees. With its extraordinary mix of world leaders, innovators and celebrities, the TIME 100 Gala is globally recognized as one of the most prestigious annual events.

As in past years, the 2018 TIME 100 was attended by a who’s who of global icons from industry, culture, sports, fashion and politics.

Participants and performers at this year’s Gala included Jennifer Lopez, Shawn Mendes, Sterling K. Brown, Adam Rippon, Tarana Burke, Nice Nailante Leng'ete, and Deepika Padukone as well as Editor-in-Chief of Time, Edward Felsenthal, Time's Director of Enterprise, Mia Tramz, and Editorial Director at Time Magazine, Dan Macsai.

Among the notable attendees this year were Nicole Kidman & Keith Urban, John Krasinski & Emily Blunt, Millie Bobby Brown, Kesha, Ben Platt, Trevor Noah, RuPaul, Leslie Jones, Christian Siriano, Megyn Kelly, Ali Raisman, Lindsey Vonn, Carmen Yulín Cruz, Senator Rand Paul, Congresswoman Maxine Waters, Lena Waithe, Kehinde Wiley, Preet Bharara, Martha Stewart, Arianna Huffington and Parkland Activists Alex Wind, Cameron Kasky, Emma Gonzalez, Jaclyn Corin, and David Hogg.

The gala featured an extensive red carpet on two floors, an elegant cocktail reception over which was flown a ‘photo chandelier’ of Time 100 honorees, a seated dinner and program that combined remarks, musical performances, toasts by some of the evening’s honorees, and an after party with DJ Mick. This year’s gala event was sponsored by Citi, Jane Walker by Johnnie Walker, Airtable, and Fly Victor.

As one of the world’s most high-stature events, the TIME 100 draws extensive global media coverage which this year included NBC’s Today Show, CBS This Morning, FOX, Entertainment Tonight, E! News, and Access Hollywood. Additionally, the TIME 100 generates extraordinary digital reach through TIME.com, online bloggers and social media from the attendees themselves.

With the world watching through such extensive coverage, the production of the TIME 100 requires the highest caliber of precision planning and flawless execution. Empire was proud to work closely with the TIME team to once again deliver a flawless and extraordinary evening.

As Producer, Empire’s responsibilities included event design, talent booking & coordination, staging and technical production, venue and catering logistics coordination (catering provided by Great Performances), broadcast facilities, stage management, staffing, front of house logistics, security and sponsorship activations.

Empire is proud to continue our 9 year history with the Time 100.

Link: http://time.com/5248950/time-100-gala-best-moments/

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​All Hands and Hearts,co-founded by philanthropist and supermodel Petra Nemcova, called onEmpire once again to produce their Third Fight for Education gala in therenowned Cipriani Wall Street.

On February15, leaders from finance, sports, and fashion gathered to support the All Handsand Hearts mission to addressimmediate and long-term needs of communities impacted by natural disasters byengaging and leveraging volunteers, partner organizations and local communities.

Theaction-packed evening was kicked off by internationally-acclaimed tenor JamesValenti singing the National Anthem. After the moving performance, Petrainvited All Hands and Hearts volunteer, former NFL star, and Good MorningAmerica anchor Michael Strahan to speak about his recent experiences withthe foundation as they worked to rebuild Houston after the devastation ofHurricane Harvey.

Afterhis moving remarks, All Hands and Hearts co-chair Tina Lindstrom took to thering to introduce their new partnership with Equinox and thank guests for theirattendance. Then, veteran sports announcer Mark Fratto stepped into the ring tobegin announcing the night’s roster of bouts.

The eveningproceeded with six fights featuring amateurs in finance representing JP MorganChase, Goldman Sachs, Siris Capital Cantor Fitzgerald, among others. Thehighlight of the night was the last fight between All Hands and Heartsco-chairs Tina “TNT” Lindstrom and Kathleen “Kitty” Kelly and showcased thewomen’s fierceness as well as their dedication to the cause.

Inbetween the action, Sotheby’s auctioneer Ben Doller led the live auction ofeight lots, including a trip to Mexico City to experience the famous Formula 1on the Mexico City Grand Prix F1 track, and a special VIP package to NYFW.

Throughoutthe elevated evening, the nearly 400 guests were treated to a three-course mealof spring salad, entrée choices of world-famous Cipriani pasta, short rib orsea bass, and family style desserts for a sweet finish.

Empirewas proud to be a part of this creative fundraising event, having been theproducer of All Hands and Hearts’ annual events for the last 8 years and is aleading producer of not-for-profit events globally.

To learnmore about All Hands and Hearts, please visit https://www.allhandsandhearts.org/

For the seventh year, Empire teamed up with 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 Sean Parker, Chairman of the Parker Institutefor Cancer Immunotherapy, which is responsible for uniting laboratory andclinical efforts that will lead to the immunological treatment, control andprevention of cancer. The evening was co-hosted by Marc and Lynne Benioff, RonConway, Dean Kamen, Laurene Powell-Jobs, Van Jones, Ken & Teri Hertz and TheAnneberg Foundation.

The i.am angel foundation supports charitable activities and programsproviding college scholarships (i.am scholarship), college preparation (i.amCollege Track), and opportunities in STEAM education (Science, Technology, Engineering,Arts, and Math), and remains committed to TRANS4M-ing will.i.am’s hometown neighborhoodof Boyle Heights in East Los Angeles.

On the evening of February 20, 2018, 350 supporters gathered at MilkStudios for an intimate evening that showcased the Foundation’s programs andstudents. i.am angel’s donors enjoyed cocktails, hors d'oeuvres as they, engaged with students in a variety of demonstrations relatedto i.am angel’s STEAM programs.

After cocktails, guests made their way to The Hangar, which was transformedinto an elegant dining room with long rustic wooden tables juxtaposed with the venue’ssteel and urban vibe. Flourishes including hanging greenery, pin-spotted tabletopflorals, and flickering candlelight for a warm yet forward-looking style.

The program was emceed by the Roast Master General, Jeff Ross. As the eveningprogressed guests listened to heartwarming student testimonials and a firesidechatbetween will.i.am and honoree, Sean Parker. Later in the night auctioneer ZackKrone took the stage with special guest auctioneer and comedian, Chris Tucker. Together they led guests to bid on VIP experiences that ranged from a VIP U2concert experience to a vegan dinner and lifestyle experiences with Moby and will.i.am.The evening raised more than $1.6 million that will support ongoing STEAMeducation programs..

The evening finished with a high-energydouble-bill performance by Black Eyed Peas and Earth Wind & Fire.

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

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

On February 23, Empire presented nine time Grammy Award-winning artist, Sheryl Crow and her full band for a corporate audience in LasVegas. Approximately 500 guests of all ages packed the Palazzo Ballroom at the VenetianHotel and Casino for the private performance.

The audience flocked to the stage as Sheryl Crow performedall of her greatest hits including, "All I Wanna Do," "Everydayis a Winding Road "My Favorite Mistake," "Soak Up the Sun,"and of course, "Leaving Las Vegas."

Empire was responsible for proposing, negotiating,contracting, and advancing all logistical and production elements for SherylCrow’s performance.

Empire Entertainment is a leading provider of talent forcorporate events and celebrations around the world.

In January 2018 Empire was proud to work with CoreMedia Systems to produce their25^th Anniversary benefiting the Good Tidings Foundation. Thehigh-profile charity concert featured celebrity talent with the goal of raisingfunds for the Good Tidings Foundation, a children’s charity that looks toequally support arts, education, athletics and dreams for youth fromcommunities of need all over the country.

Guests were welcomed to GothamHall, meticulously decorated in jewel-toned hues of blue and green velvet withgold accents to complement the golden dome of the 19^th centurybuilding. Empire transformed the historic former bank into a sleekand modern lounge with a smoking room luxe atmosphere. Over 700 attendeesenjoyed passed hors d’oeuvres, food stations and specialty cocktails along witha photo booth activation, silent auction and an interactive digital graffitiwall.

The concert featured upbeat musicfrom DJ Natasha Diggs, a main stage performance from Marc Roberge of O.A.R. andfriends, and guests danced the remainder of the night away to tunes from famed DJQuestlove.

The host of the event, CoreMediaSystems, Inc. develops and supports CoreDirect, the advertising industry’s mostwidely used direct-response media management software. The system is used bymore than 100 direct response agencies and marketers to plan, buy, manage,measure and optimize direct response media campaigns.

Glenn DeKraker, the company’sfounder and CEO, addressed the crowd along with Larry Harper, the founder ofGood Tidings, who invited famed New York Yankees pitcher, CC Sabathia to the stageto say a few words about the Good Tidings Foundation and announce their latestproject in the Bronx to refurbish a Boys and Girls Club. During the evening, CoreMediagraciously presented a check of $334,000 as a donation to the Good Tidings Foundation,raised through the generous contributions of clients and friends in the directresponse industry.

Empire served asthe overall event producer, coordinated all logistics, catering, décor, talent acquisitionand coordination, technical production, program, staffing and onsitemanagement. Empire was proud to partner with CoreMedia Systems (www.coremedia-systems.com) to support the GoodTidings Foundation. To learn more and donate to the Good Tidings Foundation,please visit www.goodtidings.com.

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EBONY Magazine presented the 6th annual EBONY Power 100 Gala on December 1, 2017, honoring the nation’s 100 most powerful and influential African Americans, along with Ebony Icon Award recipient, Maxine Waters and the inaugural John H. Johnson Award recipient, Robert F. Smith.

This year’s Ebony Power 100 returned to the iconic Beverly Hilton's International Ballroom and was hosted by the CEO of Ebony Media Operations, Linda Johnson Rice, The Chairman of Ebony Media Operations, Michael Gibson, and The Vice Chairman of Ebony Media Operations, Willard Jackson.

Following red carpet arrivals, media room activations, and an elegant cocktail reception, approximately 600 guests were seated for a dinner program emceed by Blackish star, actor and comedian Deon Cole.

Over the course of the evening attendees were entertained by musical and dance performances, including tap dancers from the Debbie Allen Dance Academy, an acoustic performance by Willow Smith, and a rousing finalé performance by Bell Biv Devoe.

DJ Cipha Sounds performed throughout the event and spun at the post-reception in the International Foyer and Terrace where guests also enjoyed a variety of activities and sponsored social sharing stations.

Celebrities and A-listers in attendance and featured on stage included Pastor Michael Walrond Jr., Essence Atkins, Tristan Mack Wilds, and Angela Rye. Additional attendees included Magic and Cookie Johnson, Sugar Ray Leonard, Laila Ali, Anthony Anderson, and many more.

The Ebony Power 100 was presented by Nationwide Insurance, with other noteworthy sponsors and partners including United Airlines, Cadillac, Hilton Worldwide, Shea Moisturizer, and Diageo.

Empire was honored to once again serve as event producer for the Ebony Power 100, responsible for venue logistics, décor, production, talent booking & coordination, registration, videography, event logistics and onsite management.

On December 11, 2017, The Howard Hughes Corporation partneredwith Empire to present a holiday event to showcase the brand-new Pier 17 rooftop,located at the Seaport District NYC. Before a panorama of nighttime viewsoverlooking lower Manhattan, the East River and iconic Brooklyn Bridge, esteemedclients, employees, and friends christened the rooftop, opening the newestchapter in this historic location.

This was the first event held at the new Pier 17 building,which began construction in 2014 after the previous building was damaged inHurricane Sandy. Guests to this special event were invited to preview the newbuilding and its one-of-a kind rooftop space, which was partially-tented forthe event.

Guests arriving at the pier were greeted by a candlelit walkwayleading them up to check-in. Upon disembarking on the rooftop, guests steppedinto an elegant, all-black main space glowing with blue Astera light tubesdesigned to maximize the views of the skyline. Onstage, Vargas Productions& the BSKI Band kept the energy high with alternating sets of DJ-spun tunesand popular dance hits.

The interior space was flanked by two clear navi-trac tentstructures, allowing guests to enjoy the breathtaking views while they enjoyedbuilt-out lounge spaces featuring a towering Champagne Bar and Bourbon Bar, signaturecocktails prepared at the 16’ diamond-cut ice bar by Okamoto Studio, and aneclectic menu of delicious foods provided by Olivier Cheng Catering.

Large French doors and a lighted path of LED tubes beckonedguests outside to the viewing deck to take in the gorgeous views and a livecarving of an ice sculpture, while sitting by inviting fire pits overlookingthe East River, wrapped in warm blankets and sipping hot apple cider toddys.

Sponsors for the night included Lincoln, who featured afully-loaded Navigator on the roof, and Heineken.

The night was filled with holiday spirit as attendees dancedthe night away atop of Pier 17.

Empire is honored to have produced this milestone event inthis historic and vibrant new location.

To learn more about Pier 17 and Seaport District visit www.seaportdistictnyc.com

Since1967, Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) has worked tirelessly to solve theworld’s biggest environmental problems. To celebrate 50 years of “finding theways that work”, EDF wanted to gather longtime supporters, partners, andassociates to thank them and outline the pivotal steps on the path ahead.

Tomatch the magnitude of the accomplishment, EDF hosted an event in San Franciscoon November 29, 2017. Working with EDF from the beginning of the process,Empire helped source and secure the perfect venue and backdrop for the event, Terra Gallery.

Morethan 225 attendees enjoyed mingling during a cocktail hour, complete with afull bar, hors d’oeuvres, and a live jazz guitarist.

Gueststhen moved upstairs for the stage program and seated dinner. Following theover-arching theme of the “Four Waves” of environmentalism, host MargaretHoover (author, activist, and CNN analyst) introduced two original videosgenerated specifically for the event: the first documenting the growth of theenvironmental movement and EDF’s role in it, and the second focusing on EDF’swork harnessing the power of partnerships to achieve environmental progress.

Kathleen McLaughlin, SVP, ChiefSustainability Officer, Wal-Mart Stores, Inc., sat in conversation with hostMargaret Hoover to discuss how the EDF/Walmart partnership has helped theretailer eliminate several chemicals of concern from consumer product on theirshelves, and significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions from their globalsupply chain had on company-wide sustainability at acorporate level.

Tofurther drive home the message of impact, EDF welcomed a rancher, farmer, andfisherman to share stories on how EDF programs have directly benefited them andtheir industries, while advancing conservation for species and ecosystems.

Thekeynote speech was provided by former Secretary of the Navy, Ray Mabus, who discussedthe importance of partnering with EDF during his tenure, which helped the Navyand Marine Corps substantially reduce fuel consumption and improve energysecurity.

EDFPresident, Fred Krupp, who has led the organization for the past 33 years,rounded out the night with an impactful speech. His message acknowledged thechallenges ahead, but offered hope that EDF – with the help of people in theroom and others like them – could continue to make progress on the mostpressing environmental problems facing the world.

Empireis proud to have produced this anniversary event and supports the work andmission of the EDF.

Tolearn more about the Environmental Defense Fund, please visit www.edf.org.

Microsoft hosted their three-day in-person and online developer event, Connect(); 2017, at Spring Studios in New York City.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Those in attendance and activating within the event included:

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

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

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

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

TRAVEL & TOURISM: Caribbean American Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Turnstyle Tours, MUSIC: NORTON Records (Played 1950s & 1960s Rock & Roll).

SIGNAGE & PRINTING: Duggal Visual Solutions

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

Guest took home a Brooklyn Navy Yard Tote Gift Bag that included a custom, handmade sketch of Building 77 by Abby Lichtman, Coffee by Brooklyn Roasting Company, and a Brooklyn Navy Yard Water Bottle & Mug.

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

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

On November 2, 2017, Empire was honored to serve as the producers of the star-studded, 16th annual Samsung Annual Charity Gala, which took place at Skylight Clarkson Sq in New York City. The annual charity gala is Samsung’s principal cause-marketing event dedicated to supporting a variety of charitable organizations focused on children’s health, education, and sustainability.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

OnNovember 29, 2017, the Coalition for the Homeless hosted the 23^rdannual ARTWALK NY bringing together more than 700 art lovers, celebrities,artists, collectors, and Coalition supporters at Spring Studios for a night filledwith over 100 pieces of contemporary art in a silent and live auction.

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

Empirewas proud to serve as overall producer for ARTWALK NY for the eighthconsecutive year. The evening was generously presented by Italian fashion house Max Mara. This year, artist Louise Fishman washonored for her contribution to contemporary art, and Vincent and ShellyFremont were honored for their continued philanthropic support of the Coalitionthroughout the years. Debbie Harry presented the Philanthropic Honoree award tothe Fremonts.

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

Theevening began with hors d’oeuvres by Spring Place and cocktails graciously providedby VDKA 6100, Brooklyn Brewery, Bird in Hand Winery, and Ilegal Mezcal. Tastingstations were provided by a selection of New York’s best restaurants, includingACME, Celestine, Il Buco, Mission Chinese, The Odeon, Dizengoff, Fairfax,Houseman, Samesa, and Wildair. Mah-Ze-Dahr Bakery offered mini pastries andMorgenstern’s Finest Ice Cream offered several of their delectable uniqueflavors as well as an affogato in collaboration with Counter Culture, whichserved espressos and lattes.

Throughoutthe night, guests bid on and purchased works from established and emergingartists while listening to upbeat tunes spun by DJ Mia Moretti and DJElle Dee.

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

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

​InNovember 2017, Empire partneredwith Endeavor.org to celebrate their success overthe past 20 years leading the high-impactentrepreneurship movement. The gala highlighted Endeavor’s powerful globalnetwork of game-changing entrepreneursand international industry leaders from 30 markets for over 600 attendees.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

To learn more about the Lowline, visit thelowline.org

On Wednesday, September 20th, 2017 UN Women hosted their third annual HeForShe event, a global solidarity movement in support of women’s rights and full equality between women and men.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Upon arrival, guests were checked in to luxurious Safari tents provided each outfitted with 2 twin beds featuring Casper mattresses & bedding. Lunch was served out of Casper, WY’s own Mad Flatters food truck and outdoor apparel company Outdoor Voices organized float trips down the river and yoga in the fields. As afternoon activities came to an end, guests were treated to a sunset BBQ.

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

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

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

A farewell lunch was served by Impossible Burger.

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

Consumers received a printed copy of their camera obscuraexperience and were welcomed to engage with the retail portion of the pop-updisplaying exclusive NMD product. In New York, the installation was decoratedwith photography from Dondre Green, a street photographer hailing from theBronx.

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

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

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

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

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

Charge Your Self is on display on through Friday, September 8, 2017 at The Chandran Gallery located at 459 Geary Street, San Francisco, CA 94102.

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

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

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

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

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

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In late July, OZY, the start-up media brandfocused on bringing its readers the new and the next, brought their secondinstallment of OZY Fest to Central Park's Summerstage.

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

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

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

InJuly 2017, Empire was called upon to recommend and contract some of the mostinteresting keynote speakers in the world for a Fortune 500 company’s annualincentive and retreat program in spectacular Banff, Canada. The client collaboratedwith Empire to arrange a lineup that would wow their leading employees. Day one of the conference featured a moderatedconversation and debate with David Axelrod (the Chief Strategist for PresidentObama’s campaigns) and conservative commentator and syndicated columnist, Dr.Charles Krauthammer. The two men sharedtheir views on the current political and economic climate, with both providingtremendous insight and humor throughout the discussion.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

For the fifth consecutive year, Empire served as producerof the Fragrance Foundation Awards, the fragrance industry’s premier event celebratingoutstanding achievement and creativity.

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

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

Notable program participants included Hall of Fame Honoree and CEO of Puig,Marc Puig, LifetimeAchievement Perfumer, and Master Perfumer of Firmenich, Harry Frémont. Countrysinger Trisha Yearwood performeda moving rendition of "Somewhere Over the Rainbow".

Celebrity presenters and attendees included KarlieKloss, Katie Holmes, Carolina Herrera, Judith Light, Adrian Grenier, NinaGarcia, Debi Mazar, Dascha Polanco, Jessica Pimentel, Mario Contone, TommyDorfman, Elettra Wiedemann, Carly Chaikin, Annie Parisse, Anna Clumsky, LaisRibiero, and Rose Gilroy.

Following the seated Awards program, guests returned tothe Alice Tully Hall atrium which had been transformed during the program intoan elegant, seated dinner—the perfect Summer evening dining experience.

The evening ended with an after party held at the LincolnRestaurant where guests danced to music by fashion-favorite DJ Mia Moretti.

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

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

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

Thepremiere took place in the center of New York City on the iconic Bryant Parklawn. Empire worked closely with the Park to secure the venue and allpermissions and to present the episode on the giant 40’x20’ screen used for theSummer Film Festival.

After a set by DJ Jon Blak, themed festivities and redcarpet arrivals, the episode was introduced by EVP of TNT Original Programming,Sarah Aubrey, as well as executive producers Craig Pearce (TheGreat Gatsby, Moulin Rouge!, Romeo+ Juliet) and ShekharKapur (director& Golden Globe nominee forElizabeth).

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

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

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

Guests enjoyed British pubfood and drinks while participating in a branded photo booth, tattoo andcalligraphy activities, all to a soundtrack of the Sex Pistols, The Clash and TheJam.

For this large-scale publicevent and VIP after party, Empire was responsible for securing the venues,handling all staging and technical production, audience logistics andactivities as well as the décor, design and production of the after party.

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

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On a crystal clear evening in June, guestsarrived at the Observatory at the top of the World Trade Center building to astunning sunset over the New York City skyline. The tone was set for abeautiful and warm evening to celebrate and raise support for one of Empire’smost beloved long-time clients, Happy Hearts Fund.

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

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

After this, guests took part in a live auctionhosted by the ebullient auctioneer Simon de Pury and they were off to theraces! In no short order over a million dollars were raised and some verypleased guests would be going home with a variety of priceless trips andexperiences, fantastic jewelry and fine art by modern masters like Bosco Sodiand Helidon Xhixha. Guests also won premiumtickets and backstage passes to John Legend and U2, a once-in-a-lifetime SouthAfrican excursion, and more; all of which was donated from supporters fromaround the world.

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

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

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

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

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Global advertising and powerhouse marketing agency Grey launchedits yearlong centennial celebration with a kick-off week featuring a mix ofbusiness meetings as well as celebratory social events. Grey called upon Empireto produce three of their biggest events for the week.

On Monday, May 15, Grey welcomed agency leaders from around theworld with a reception and seated dinner in the Whitney Museum of American Art.After remarks by Debby Reiner, CEO of Grey New York, Marc Pritchard, ChiefBrand Officer of P&G, and Sir Martin Sorrell, CEO of WPP, guests hadthe chance to explore the Whitney. During dinner,Jim Heekin, Chairman and CEO of Grey Global unveiled the gorgeous, warm redcoffee table book profiling Grey’s first 100 years. These books were alsoshowcased on bookshelves spanning the Whitney lobby. Michael Houston, GreyGlobal President, revealed the commemorative Grey centennial logo – one thatcelebrates the colorful, diverse minds of Grey's 5,000 global employees byturning scans of their brainwaves into art. A video also introduced Grey'sRising Stars, recognizing young talent and their worldwide contributions to theagency.

The 68th floor of 4 World Trade Center was the perfect settingfor the Global Meetings on Tuesday, May 16, and Wednesday, May 17. Floor-to-ceilingwindows provided an expansive 360° backdrop of skyline views whileexecutives attended keynotes and breakout sessions. To balance the sun-filledvenue, window tints were customized with elements of the Grey centennial logoto add another layer of branding and dimension to the space. Similar vinylsalso subtly called out iconic New York City landmarks for newcomers.

The Centennial Gala dinner at Madison Square Park on Thursday,May 18 concluded the week of events. Guests enjoyed cocktails inside elegant tentssurrounding the main bar set up in the central fountain, while DJ Lina providedmusic throughout the evening. The clear expansive dinner tent featured a stunningceiling installation of sheer fabric panels printed with Centennial graphics. The dinner program featured comedic throwbacks to some of Grey'smost famous ads, and presented awards to teams behind iconic campaignsfeaturing Volvo, Gillette, the E*TRADE baby, the Swedish Number, and more. Aspart of the future-facing announcements, Houston introduced the UNICEF + GreyGlobal Kids Council, vowing to drive social change by working together with thenext generation to solve cultural challenges with creative solutions.

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

Empire is proud to collaborate with Grey to celebrate theirmonumental achievement and reveal a commemorative visual identity for the 2017 Centennialyear – highlighting Grey’s global range of creative perspectives and solutionsin creating Famously Effective work.

Playworkscelebrated their third annual New York Get in the Game Gala, recognizing MostValuable Principal Sandra D’Avilar, of Brooklyn’s PS 9 and Most InspiringLeader, Dr. Risa Lavizzo-Mourey, President Emerita of the Robert WoodFoundation.

Thisschool year, the acclaimed nonprofit Playworks has provided safe, healthy andinclusive play for more than65,000 girls and boys in 110 schools across New York and New Jersey. This is just the first stop on their road toreach 200,000 kids here in our region by 2020 with safe and healthy play thatreduce bullying, increase physical activity, improve learning and promotesocial and emotional skills.

Theevening featured remarks from Executive Director of Playworks, Kim McCall,Founder and CEO Jill Vialet, a live auction led by Pat Tully, entertainmentfrom international recording artist ELEW, recess games, a friendly ping pongand basketball tournament, plus food and drink. Funds raised support theexpanding efforts of Playworks to bring the power of play to every girl and boyin New York and beyond.

Tohelp make this event a success, Empire produced the fundraiser at the elegantTribeca Rooftop venue where we transported guests from the ballroom to theplayground on the transformed rooftop space. Attendees enjoyed stunningManhattan views and experienced play through sophisticated and immersiveactivations of traditional recess games like Four Square and Switch, along withlife sized installations of Scrabble, Jenga and Connect 4.

Workingclosely with Playworks, Empire served as the event producer, managing elementsincluding venue, décor, technical production, and performing talent. Empire isa leading producer of fundraising events and we are honored that Playworkscontinues to work with us to produce successful events.

To support or learn more aboutPlayworks, please visit www.playworks.org

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

To bring the “Most Memorable Impression"theme to life, Empire developed a design and concept, working closely withScreenvision Media, to transform New York City’s PlayStation Theater into afully immersive theater and after party experience for its high-levelattendees.

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

After a reveal to the after party, guestswere welcomed to a large, inviting space featuring a 24’ bar, innovativecatering stations by Creative Edge, and interactive movie sets inspired by someof the most anticipated feature films. The main attraction was on theexisting concert stage, where guests stepped into the jungle of Sony’s “Jumanji:Welcome to the Jungle” (release date: December 20, 2017), Marvel Studios’ “Thor:Ragnarok” (release date: November 3, 2017), Sony’s “The Emoji Movie” (releasedate: July 28, 2017), and Fox Studio’s “Deadpool 2” (release date: June 1,2018). Within each set were a series of custom guest activities including actualmovie props and an interactive photo booth in “Jumanji”, a Whiskey tasting barand pool table in “Deadpool”, and arm wrestling table in “Thor: Ragnarok” meantto depict the film’s gladiatorial contest between Thor and the Hulk.

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

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

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

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