Staging a staff party

Event

Eurostar Staff Party, 10-11 March 2008

Requirements

Eurostar wanted to create a celebratory event for 2,000 staff to recognise their hard work and thank them for the part they played in Eurostar's move from Waterloo to St Pancras International station.

Event Solution

SML Marketing & Events created the event "Cirque du Eurostar".

The spectacular Koko nightclub in Camden was chosen for the two-night event. Guests were greeted by four fire pyros that had been rigged onto the roof of the club, together with a searchlight and gobo projections of Eurostar’s logo.

On entering the venue, guests were greeted by a "Star Burst" girl in a ticket booth dressed with cracked ice and mood lighting.

In line with the circus theme, the entire event space inside was dressed with circus props including Venetian masks, branded rope ladders, giant tassels, glittered hoops, carousel horses and drums.

A ringmaster was also on hand to welcome the guests.

A bespoke stage formed the key thematic backdrop to the event. Video animation was shown and a live camera feed roamed the venue.

Guests were entertained by a series of professional performers ranging from former M People lead singer Heather Small, to acrobats, aerialists and contortionists from Cirque du Soleil.

"We produced a masquerade moment which involved a dance performance," explained SML Event Production Manager Sarah Payne, "Confetti canons were set off and staff roamed the venue handing out Venetian masks to guests. Giant balloons were also released into the audience."

Catering included novelty party foods like hot dogs, burgers, fish and chips – all served from usherette trays – along with donuts and a sweet heaven on the upper levels.

With guests finally leaving the venue at 2am, Eurostar branded the party the best it had ever held.