THE CHALLENGE

Singularity University aims to solve the world’s biggest challenges through technology. To throw their Canadian summit reception at an abandoned power plant was the perfect way to disrupt the tech industry.

At conceptual phase, the decommissioned Edmonton Rossdale Power Plant was not suitable for an event – there was literally no infrastructure! Large open pits gaped stories down from the main floor level where the boiler stacks used to be and vision for a fully immersive entertainment experience coming from all angles, deemed for very creative design solutions.

Photo Credit: epicphotography.ca

THE SOLUTION

Collaborating with some of Canada’s brightest event industry professionals, EPCOR, and The City of Edmonton; over 800 attendees broke into a night that lit up the City’s skies.

With under 70 days from the first site visit, extensive clean-up and maintenance was efficiently completed to pass safety inspections in time for event day. Over 3520 sq ft of decking was built, turning open pits into centre stages and VIP lounges. To meet demanding load in needs, egress/ingress ramps, stairs and railings were built out of scaffolding and decoratively lit; bringing the industrial event theme outdoors.

Inside the historic building, challenges of lighting various 360° elements simultaneously with no permitted rigging points while large, high windows allowed natural light in, were met with ground support lighting and a floor plan visualized as an open pedway. Guests experienced an entertainment program developed to elevate as natural sunlight lowered in the night’s skies. Strategic gear placement and using extensive height of the large room to our advantage, this custom lighting design wove between the steel beams providing ample lighting and minimized hazards. An unforgettable ambience was created, history was made and multiple industry awards were won!