were lit on fire; vows triggered thunder and lightning; vows flew into the sky on a wire...it was really something that turned speeches into a performative experience that showed some fun interactions of the couple and shared their story in a dramatic experience. It was really next-level and authentic while being over the top!” Keep it novel Today’s attendees want to be surprised, delighted, and wowed—meaning novelty and experimentation can go a long way in your events this year. “Entertainment is becoming more experimental, mixing various art forms and performance styles in ways that surprise and engage,” says York. “These performances often push boundaries and challenge expectations.” Gone are the days of one or two standard performances. In 2025, events offer a chance for attendees to experience culture, artforms, and technology they wouldn’t otherwise experience. Events should leave them with more than memories; they should inspire conversation and critical thinking. “Event entertainment is no longer just an add-on—it’s a key component of the guest experience,” says Centner. “Whether through live performances, immersive tech, or interactive food and beverage experiences, entertainment should create emotional connections. “The most successful events are the ones where entertainment feels like an organic part of the experience, rather than just a scheduled segment. The future of event entertainment is all about engagement, personalization, and storytelling.”
A show projected onto PG&E Substation J, a historic San Francisco landmark. Event by and photo courtesy A3 Visual
He also encourages asking plenty of questions when working with entertainment you’re not totally familiar with. “It’s important to gather as much information as possible to understand the entertainment thoroughly.” This means identifying limitations early in the process. “Be sure to discuss any venue limitations, restrictions, or other factors that could affect the performance. Information is key to ensuring everything runs smoothly.” (Side note: unique venues are on the rise and can offer a form of entertainment in themselves!) You don’t have to do everything yourself, though. When adding in high-tech or unique entertainment, it’s beneficial to bring in the experts. “It’s important to work with professionals who understand their craft and can guide you through the process,” encourages Peterman. “If a live band is new territory, ask for a live demo or attend one of their public gigs to get a feel for their energy.” York agrees. “Whether it's performers, tech specialists, or
vendors—get the most accurate and relevant information. Their expertise can help you make informed decisions.” When bringing in extra vendors, you’re going to need heightened transparency and communication. You’ll also likely need to work together to run extra rehearsals. “The more elaborate the entertainment the more important the preparation, rehearsing, and testing. You’ll only get one chance once the performance starts,” reminds Centner. This means making sure that the entertainment “aligns with the overall event flow; it should feel seamless, not forced.” Finally, stick to the event theme. “We would generally suggest picking things that work into a major theme rather than trying to put together a grab bag of things,” recommends Goel. “The most interesting entertainment we saw this past year was a wedding we did at the Hollywood Palladium, where the officiant was a magician and was paired with an event producer to create a production around the wedding vows. Vows
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SPECIAL EVENTS SPRING 2025
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