Part of the UC homecoming weekend the UC Bicentennial Bash had a wide variety of audiences, with different messaging targeted toward each group. Aggressive pre-event marketing saw registration numbers swell in the month leading up to the event. The Bash needed to capture attention during a weekend packed with homecoming events. Competing for attendees with the homecoming game and parade, it was important to create a high energy evening, worth adding to vistor’s packed schedules.
With the goal of catering toward the disparate interests of high value donors, alumni & staff, and the student body, several tiers of event experience were necessary, from luxe V.I.P. treatment to free general admission.
We produced a full evening of programming, all falling under the umbrella of the Bicentennial Bearcat Bash. Starting in the early evening and going late into the night, the schedule kept revelers engaged and sent them home excited about the promising future of University of Cincinnati.
Things kicked off with a private V.I.P. program for high value donors. Featuring addresses from faculty, and alumni, attendees were treated to musical numbers by a variety of student groups. The V.I.P. program culminated in a dramatic automated reveal, in which the backdrop for the program, a 90 foot wide curtain, parted and traveled around the arena—revealing the Bearcat Bash stage on the main floor.
As the V.I.P. event concluded, general admission attendees streamed into 5/3 arena partaking in a variety of Bearcat themed activations, from 360° photo booths to custom fabricated Bearcat themed pop-a-shots. All conceived an executed by the L!VE team. The night wrapped with musical performances and a rousing champaign toast by the University President, celebrating the first 200 years and laying the groundwork for 200 more years of innovation and inspiration at the University of Cincinnati.
