Empire Produces Conservation International's New York Gala Featuring Former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair

For Conservation International’s 14th Annual New York City Gala, Empire Entertainment, in partnership with @Radical.media, once again reinvented the traditional gala event model. By presenting the issues & content as the central focus of the evening, Conservation International’s attending supporters were not only well entertained, but well informed by the experience.The evening’s dynamic stage program was led by ABC News Correspondent George Stephanopoulos and included a live stage discussion with former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair. As Mr. Stephanopoulos interviewed Mr. Blair, guests learned first hand about the myriad issues threatening our world’s ecosystems and how governments both help and hinder eco-efforts. The informative and fluid discussion focused on Mr. Blair’s personal experiences in facing the challenges and opportunities in trying to make progress on conservation and sustainability.

Following dinner, Empire broke new ground by literally bringing the audience live to Liberia, Brazil and Japan. Making use of Mr Stephanopoulos’ skills as a live television host and with the help of Skype IP video conferencing technology, the event featured a live magazine show format that brought three of Conservation International’s field scientists from Liberia, Brazil and Japan live onscreen into the event. All three shed light on the importance of marrying global & local community efforts in the fight for conservation & sustainability and guests were able to witness first hand the work of Conservation International in disparate regions across the globe.Other speakers for the evening included Conservation International CEO, & Co-Founder Peter Seligmann and the president of the Council on Foreign Relations, Dr. Richard Haass.The setting for the dinner, The Hall of Ocean Life, was transformed with a stage set that included breathtaking falls of cascading indigo fabric that created a waterfall effect.

Tables were set with exquisite, sustainable floral arrangements for a combined effect that was understated, refined and dramatic. Held in the magnificent American Museum of Natural History, the event also featured an elegant cocktail reception in the Cullman Hall of Universe and a dessert reception in the Hall of Biodiversity.

Leveraging creative and production strengths, Empire, in collaboration with the Conservation International team and @Radical.media were able to deliver a flawless evening that informed, entertained and inspired the gala attendees.