Case Study
St. Mary’s Hospital Foundation - 100th Anniversary
Role
Strategic direction, artistic direction, entertainment conception and direction, artist sourcing and management, supplier sourcing and management, logistics and on-site management, food & beverage styling, event hospitality staffing.
Mandate
We have been supporting the St. Mary’s Hospital Foundation with the production of their annual gala ball since 2016. The black-tie affair is one of the premier charitable events in the province, attracting over 650 distinguished guests, heads of industry and important political dignitaries including the Prime Minister. In 2024, the Foundation would honour the 100th anniversary of the hospital and we were tasked with the challenge of highlighting and honoring the hospital’s rich history, while helping them to usher in a new century of care.
Solution
Working in close partnership with the Foundation, Vocation Events led a team of talented event professionals through the creative process to full execution of an evening that allowed guests to walk through the story of the hospital’s beginnings and move into a space where, using video projection, meticulous scripting and immersive performances, we underlined that the future of the hospital would continue to be one that emphasized the same thing it always had: compassionate, individualized, comprehensive care.
Centenary 5 à 7
To achieve an immersive 1920s experience, we would transform the entrance and cocktail area into a step back in time. The decor would reflect the era, with period-appropriate furniture, lighting fixtures, and vintage props including a life-size reconstruction of the original hospital gates. Upon arrival, guests would be greeted by vintage cars and actors in 1920s attire, setting the scene and guiding them into the experience. Music from the era played in the background, and signature cocktails inspired by the 1920s would be served by costumed bartenders. The goal was to create a fully immersive environment that transported guests back to the hospital's origins, setting the stage for an evening that celebrated its rich history and promising future.
Telling a story of care through art
In collaboration with the Foundation, we designed, developed and directed multiple performances to honor the hospital's centennial. The first presentation was a poignant video montage, artfully combining historical images from the hospital's past with modern-day footage. This visual journey was enhanced by heartfelt first-person accounts from significant donors, sharing their personal stories and experiences, forging a connection between the hospital's history and its present impact. As a counterpoint to this emotional narrative, we then presented a major artistic performance—an original, choreographed, immersive dance piece featuring over ten dancers, accompanied by a looping musician, creating a dynamic and captivating spectacle as they moved from the dancefloor, through the dining space to a central stage. Throughout the evening, we also oversaw the seamless integration of a DJ, a 12-piece band, and multiple character actors, ensuring a diverse and engaging entertainment experience for all attendees.
We overcame the challenges of ensuring the seamless integration of different artistic elements by working closely with each artist and technician involved, coordinating rehearsals, and conducting thorough technical checks to guarantee a smooth flow between each component.
Keeping the Event on Track with Logistics Management
Given that the event venue was a historic train station repurposed as the main floor of an office tower and a throughway for commuters, logistical challenges were substantial. The tight turnaround time required meticulous planning, efficient execution, and clear communication between all teams and stakeholders involved. We had to obtain necessary permits, coordinate with building management and public officials, and ensure that our setup did not disrupt the flow of commuters or the building's daily operations. This necessitated a clear division of responsibilities, constant communication, and a focus on achieving our shared goals within the given constraints.
Furthermore, the presence of numerous dignitaries and political figures introduced an additional layer of complexity to the logistical operations. Last-minute confirmations and the need to liaise with their security teams required adaptability and effective communication. Ensuring that these security personnel were well-informed, accommodated, and in constant communication throughout the evening added to our responsibilities and underscored the importance of thorough planning and coordination.
