The Conference as Performance Art
January 12, 2012
Performance Art is a collaborative art form that came into favor in the 1960s and 1970s as a fusion of several artistic media; dance, music, video, painting, film, video, drama, and/or sculpture. As a performance presented to an audience, it can be either scripted or unscripted and include a variety of levels of audience participation. The action can be live or via media, or a mix of both.
Performance Art can be presented anywhere, in any venue or setting and for any length of time. It is never “the same old / same old” and often challenges the orthodox and cultural norms. Performance artists challenge audiences to think in new and unconventional ways. When it works, it is an experience that is forever remembered because of how it impacts our senses.
Does that remind you of a conference, trade show, or convention? It should.
As the demands are increasing to create unique experiences at meetings, planners must become artists. Events have the same ability to impact the senses and inspire people to challenge how they think about issues. Everyone in the meetings industry thus must work together as part of an ensemble cast.
No more should a conference be a collection of independent organizers, volunteers, hotel staffers, waiters, transportation coordinators, speakers, panelists, musical entertainment, etc. … Instead, everyone must understand that they are part of a highly interactive production.
Every employee at a Disney theme park is a “Cast Member,” and the person who picks up trash is highly aware of their importance to the overall experience, equal to those who play a character.
To create a culture of “performance art” in the planning of a conference, trade show or other business gathering there must be an open discussion of the impact that each player has on the greater show.
The venue (and all their employees) and the length of the event are material. The designs of online and printed materials connect the senses. The order of appearance of those who take the stage (MC, speakers, executives who address the audience, etc) and how they interact with the audience before, during and after their presentations has a material impact.
When and how the meals are served (and what is on the menu) has an effect. The thoughtful creation of the networking opportunities and social aspects are more than having coffee, donuts or beer in a foyer. Entertainment and music should not be randomly selected. None of these things should happen in a vacuum.
Great performance art can have a sophisticated and poetic aura. Lame attempts are just that … lame. The same is true for the coordination of a conference. Humans are experiential beings and when an event becomes an experience it is forever elevated. Artists who can touch the inner levels of an audience’s soul (in art or meeting planning) are deservingly celebrated.
Partner Voices
One of the most iconic names on the Las Vegas Strip just got an upgrade. Mandalay Bay has everything that your business needs from a refreshed convention space designed to inspire productivity and creativity, to an impressive selection of world-class restaurants and amenities. If you're looking for a venue that's both inviting and innovative, you have to be here.
New Wave Experiences
Mandalay Bay continues to invest in a new wave of enhancements both in the convention space and within the resort as a whole. New restaurant openings including Orla by Michael Mina, drawing inspiration from the award-winning chef’s childhood in Egypt and with flavors and décor inspired by the spices found in markets common to coastal Mediterranean towns, as well as Caramá by Wolfgang Puck, bringing the essence of Italy and spirit of Wolfgang into one concept, are recent additions. The Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas also experienced a recent remodel of all 424 rooms. Swingers, a high-end, adults-only golf and entertainment concept will debut in Fall 2024.
Enhanced Technology
Creating a truly effective conference venue requires careful thought into what a business needs: the right technology, capacity, and inspiration to bring ideas to the next level. As part of the resort’s refresh, Mandalay Bay implemented state-of-the-art technology upgrades, installing cutting-edge Cat6A Ethernet cabling throughout the convention center. This advancement doubles the frequency of data transmission, enabling lightning-fast speeds up to 9400% faster. The convention center now boasts 11 dynamic digital walls, spanning up to 24' x 13', strategically positioned for brand placements, sponsorships and targeted event messaging. Additionally, attendees can benefit from 20 double-sided 55" mobile flexible display units, facilitating effortless navigation to meeting rooms and events. RFID locks were installed on all meeting room doors, and over 200 motion detection cameras have been placed throughout the space.
Refreshing New Design & Fine Art
The newly remodeled convention space provides a bright and vibrant atmosphere that complements Mandalay Bay's tropical-inspired brand. Featuring white-washed walls and ceilings adorned with bold floral patterns in cerulean and coral tones, the space is complemented by warm walnut accent walls. In addition to the redesign of all pre-function spaces, meeting rooms and ballrooms, Mandalay Bay's 1 million square feet of exhibit space has undergone a rejuvenation, including new paint, covered pillars and relocated strobe lights.
Sustainable Spectacles
Mandalay Bay is committed to Focused on What Matters and creating more responsible meetings. Refillable water stations all available around the resort, cutting unnecessary plastic usage from single-use bottles.
The Mandalay Bay campus’ recent upgrades represent a bold step forward in redefining the Las Vegas experience. With a focus on innovation, sustainability, and unparalleled service, Mandalay Bay sets a new standard for excellence in business hospitality. Whether you're seeking cutting-edge conference facilities, world-class dining options, or simply a luxurious retreat, an unparalleled meeting experience awaits.
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