Live entertainment is back: The secret behind the most thrilling events

(BPT) – Live events bring audiences worldwide a level of excitement unequal to anything else. Whether a concert, sporting event or action-driven event that draws a crowd, there are primal reasons people need these larger-than-life experiences. A huge part of showcasing the talent of performing artists or the skill of an elite athlete happens behind the scenes. Hosting a spectacular live event requires incredible organization, operations and innovation to bring the atmosphere to life. Stunning environments require intentional thought, programming and design, and technology is the catalyst for that creativity.

While the pandemic paused many events, ASM Global, the world’s leading venue management company and producer of live event experiences, now declares, “Live is back!” as it prepares 350 venues for shows and sporting events worldwide, from conventions and concert events to global events like the Super Bowl, Final Four and FIFA Women’s World Cup.

“Going to a game or seeing your favorite artist creates memories that last a lifetime,” said Alex Merchan, executive vice president of marketing, ASM Global. “One thing we’ve learned over the past two years is that there is no substitute for live, in-person experiences.”

Live events are more exciting that ever thanks to companies like ASM Global and its partner in cutting-edge AV technology, Anthony James Partners (AJP). Both are leading the industry in providing guests and fans with the ultimate live experience from the moment they arrive at the venue.

How technology transforms venues

Today’s demands to enhance the guest experience are greater than ever. Advanced technology makes the entire experience seamless — and spectacular — and helps create a safer, more inclusive and more exciting environment.

From the design of North America’s largest custom LED scoreboard displays to state-of-the-art experiential spaces, concourses and digital signage systems, Anthony James Partners sets the industry bar for audio-visual system design and implementation at venues you love. The industry-leading Owner’s Representative and AV Consultant specializes in the design, financial modeling, procurement and construction oversight for any large-scale technology implementation.

“There was a time when we thought of technology as a bulb-filled scoreboard and a scratchy PA system. Innovation and progress since then have been unbelievable. Technology is now the central hub that controls every aspect of communication with fans, including what they see, what they hear, and inevitably, how they feel about an event,” said Michael Rowe, CEO and co-founder of Anthony James Partners. “ASM Global’s partnership has provided us with a pallet for exploring new and immersive technology applications that will lead the entertainment community into the next generation of fan experience.”

Unique entertainment spaces have their moment

You may not think about technology while exploring entertainment areas offering dining and shopping, concerts and sporting events — like the Westgate Entertainment District in Glendale, Arizona. But ASM Global and AJP collaborated on renovations — including a digital replacement program — to transform this area into a gorgeous and lively public space. New LED display systems and more wow fans at the district’s newly renamed Desert Diamond Arena during action-packed events.

But if gaming is more your thing, you’ll definitely be impressed with a visit to Tech Port Center + Arena in San Antonio, Texas. The two companies partnered to level up this multi-use space for hosting esports competitions, with state-of-the-art AV technology design including an advanced arena LED display system and gaming center featuring 60 LAN gaming stations, making it the most technologically advanced concert and esports facility in the U.S.

Bringing iconic venues into the 21st century

For die-hard sports fans, some locations carry deep traditions that may seem at odds with cutting-edge technology. Fortunately, it’s possible to have the best of both worlds. The iconic Memorial Stadium at Clemson University in South Carolina boasts generations of loyal fans who love the venue as much as they love the game. AJP’s technology renovation is enhancing the game for Clemson fans with almost 7,112 square feet of 10mm, HDR-capable LED, making it the highest resolution LED videoboard in college sports. A state-of-the-art sound system, LED lighting and digital signage upgrades stadium-wide also help loyal fans bask in the roar of the crowd and excitement of the action.

AJP collaborated with ASM Global once again to elevate fan experience and sponsorship opportunities at the KFC Yum! Center in Louisville, Kentucky. It took less than six months to overhaul the premiere arena’s audio-visual experience, everything from broadcast control systems and cabling to concourse and concession displays. For the arena bowl, AJP designed a massive six-display LED center hung video system, auxiliary displays and continuous LED Ribbon boards for a fully immersive experience. Combined with an overhauled audio system and LED sports lighting, any sporting event or concert you attend at this venue will be even more thrilling.

Explore the magic behind creating your favorite venues at AnthonyJamesPartners.com and ASMGlobal.com.