Live
NBC Universal Media
Ellen DeGeneres Season Premiere
year
2016
capabilities
Strategy
Project Development
Vendor Management
Technical Direction
Design & Engineering
Event Logistics & Permitting
Ellen DeGeneres wanted to do something magical to kick off the 13th season of The Ellen DeGeneres Show. Her vision was for a live celebration in the heart of New York City, propelled by the energy of the fans of her Emmy Award-winning show. TAIT was brought on board to shape an unforgettable outdoor event that would resonate with live crowds and viewers at home.
The challenge was to convert Rockefeller Plaza into an outdoor studio for two back-to-back shows jam-packed with stars and surprises. With our in-depth knowledge of the plaza, we were able to pull off a complex stage build with seating for over 500 in just a few days – with minimal disruption to other NBC productions, area businesses, and the visiting crowds of tourists.
The star-studded event featured appearances from Hillary Clinton, Jimmy Fallon, and an ice-skating Amy Schumer. P!nk performed Ellen’s peppy new theme song, and Justin Bieber brought things to an electrifying climax with an unforgettable dance-party finale.
The premiere was a smash. Over 2,500 cheering fans attended in person, and the show was hailed as Ellen’s best-performing season opener in 11 years. The fans' and media's overwhelmingly positive reception cemented Ellen’s status as one of America’s most beloved entertainers.
Credits
produced by
productionglue, now tait
Nike
Nike Zoom Arena
Ellis Island Honors Society