In the realm of live events, the visual impact of a venue can significantly enhance the audience’s experience. AMI Graphics and Live Nation have established a partnership with starting with a high-profile project for a Walmart’s Veterans Day concert titled Heroes and Headliners in 2023.
This collaboration between AMI Graphics and Live Nation not only transformed the Florida Credit Union Amphitheater through innovative signage, but also set a precedent for future projects.
The Genesis of the Partnership
The partnership between AMI Graphics and Live Nation kicked off in fall 2023, with a special one-night event celebrating veterans. The ambitious project required a complete venue rebranding to align with Walmart’s event theme. AMI Graphics was tasked with transforming the venue from its usual appearance into an environment that honored heroes and headliners.
Scope and Execution of the Initial Project
The Heroes and Headliners event demanded extensive preparations and swift execution. AMI Graphics employed installers who worked tirelessly to meet tight deadlines. Key tasks and customized products included:
- Adhesive Graphics: These were applied across approximately 14 bars located from the upper Berm Hill down to the concourse, adapting each bar face with new Dibond material panels to accommodate signage on rough surface blocks.
- Color Transformation: To align with Walmart’s branding, all red elements within the venue were covered. This included transforming the tops of bars where red signs indicated beverage options, overlaying them with banners that reflected the event’s darker, navy blue theme.
- Elevated and Wide-Reaching Signage: Signs were installed above and below the venue’s large video screens, some positioned as high as 70 feet, requiring precise work from lifts. Additionally, windscreen banners were placed around the venue’s perimeter, ensuring visibility from the highway and enhancing the festive atmosphere.
Rapid Turnaround and Post-Event Operations
Given the temporary nature of the Heroes and Headliners concert, AMI Graphics also managed the post-event breakdown, removing all signage within a day to return the venue to its standard setup. This rapid turnaround showcased AMI Graphics’ capability in managing both installation and removal efficiently, an essential factor for live event operations.
Ongoing Projects and Seasonal Updates
Building on the success of the initial project, AMI Graphics and Live Nation partnered again for ongoing signage needs throughout their concert season in 2024, which typically runs from May through September. This includes:
- Infrastructure Upgrades: Older signs were replaced with new materials like aluminum and Dibond to provide durable backings for new signage.
- Reflective and Sponsor Signage: Nighttime visibility is crucial for evening concerts, prompting the use of reflective vinyl for all directional signage. Changes in sponsorships also necessitated updates to existing signage, ensuring current and relevant branding throughout the venue.
- Concessions and Menu Changes: The dynamic nature of event concessions requires frequent updates to menu boards and signage. AMI Graphics has handled numerous updates, including a significant replacement of 50 menu boards in a single morning, demonstrating agility and dedication to meeting client needs.
Future Aspirations and Closing the Season
As the current concert season approaches its close, AMI Graphics is preparing for minimal breakdowns, thanks to the durable nature of the installations designed to last through varying weather conditions and multiple seasons. Looking forward, AMI aims to continue innovating and expanding the scope of work. This includes potentially managing similar one-off events and continuously adapting to the changing needs of Live Nation’s diverse venues.
Conclusion
The ongoing partnership between AMI Graphics and Live Nation exemplifies the critical role of effective visual communication in enhancing live event experiences. Through rapid execution, innovative solutions and responsive service, AMI Graphics has not only met the unique demands of Live Nation’s venues but has also set a high standard for future collaborations.
As both organizations look to the future, they remain committed to elevating every event, ensuring that each concert is as visually engaging as it is memorable.
