Venue Transformation Against the Clock…

At Moriarty we love a creative challenge, completely transforming a venue to encapsulate a whole theme. Elevating a space as large as the Victoria and Albert Museum in less than 45 minutes was such an exciting opportunity. ‍

The Event Creative

Our client wanted a mythical evening for their guests, transporting them away from an office to a world unlike any other. With a particular interest in a Midsummers Night’s Dream, we saw the perfect opportunity to create a woodland utopia, interpreting the Shakespearean classic and immersing guests within the iconic setting.

The Location‍

With 260 guests and such an intriguing theme, choosing the perfect location was a fundamental factor in this event. We wanted a venue in which the various aspects of the story could be portrayed, taking guests on a journey of gripping visuals throughout the night. Complete exclusive hire of the Victoria and Albert Museum offered the perfect space to enhance the theme and create an unforgettable experience to be enjoyed by all.

We were then tasked with transforming this monumental space in just 45 minutes due to venue restrictions. In this short time, we made 4 blank spaces unrecognisable. Extensive planning and communication regarding set-up and timings ensured everyone understood their role on the day. At 5:45 pm each supplier eagerly waited outside the museum, ready for the set-up to begin…

The Transformation

The set-up process began by draining the pond within the courtyard, ready for the construction of the stage, which would then be surrounded by water to create the illusion of a floating stage. An 8-foot scroll displaying a famous Midsummer Night’s Dream excerpt and a foliage mirror wall were then installed, providing the ideal backdrop for polaroid photos. Colourful sofas, Persian rugs and antique furniture were carefully positioned outside, encapsulating popular characteristics from the play. To ensure the space was arranged without any delays, we created a detailed creative plan which stated exactly where each sofa, rug and prop needed to be placed, which was followed closely by all.

A bespoke teal and gold bar was assembled and dressed, complete with a carefully curated back bar filled with aged props including globes, vases and books. Foliage and wildflowers were then scattered throughout the courtyard adding pops of wild nature to the space ready for guest arrival.

Inside the venue, 26 precisely positioned dinner tables were dressed specifically to the creative, using colours and centrepieces apparent to the theme. Deep teal linen was used on the tables, complementing the walls within Raphael Court, while foliage and wildflowers were secured, adding forestry tones. Rustic books, candelabras and statue centre pieces were placed alongside candlelight, adding a sense of enchantment to the space. The room was complete with bespoke lighting, reflecting tree canopies onto the ceiling and concealing the space into a woodland wonderland.

To immerse guests further into the creative, a foliage tunnel was constructed. Made from real twisting Birch and Ivy trails an enhanced archway was made. Large trees and dense foliage were selected to create an effective and impactful look in such a short turnaround. Logs and lanterns were scattered throughout the tunnel, providing the perfect walkway to transport guests into a celestial setting. Huge urns filled with multi-coloured Gypsophila were positioned for guests to see as they arrived.

The After Party Turnaround

With guests seated and ready for dinner, we then had less than an hour to prepare the Dome for the afterparty. Following a detailed scheduled staging and lighting were installed, creating the perfect atmosphere for guests to dance into the night with the assistance of award-winning musicians. Working with our suppliers, sofas and props including wooden ladders and floral-filled drawers were then moved into the space. An 18-foot dessert table was set up, filled with several delicious treats, creating an enticing station for guests to indulge throughout the night. The space was completed with finishing touches of florals, just in time to welcome guests to the epic afterparty.

Creative Summary

As a creative events agency, designing and orchestrating this event was so much fun. We could bring our eye for detail and artistic design to all elements, creating an overall incredible event. The 45-minute set-up window was executed flawlessly due to our accurate schedules, and precise design plan.

Through our amazing supplier relationships and eye for detail, we can transport guests using incredible production, floral and collateral. We at Moriarty create artistically stimulating experiences and truly stunning events, no matter the time frame!