Singapore Expo’s new Arena@Expo multipurpose concert venue, which comes with plug-and-play audio and visual capabilities, is expected to cater to the growing demand for elevated entertainment presentations during business events.
Speaking to TTGmice during an exclusive venue showcase for music promotors and producers last week, Ng Sim Lim, vice president, sales with Constellar, the organisation that manages Singapore Expo, pointed out that business events were getting “more sophisticated (in terms of entertainment and performances), particularly the ones that are in the direct selling business or have a massive attendance”.
“These are huge productions that are business in nature, but calls for programming and entertainment content that is not typical of a business conference. They would come in and invest a lot in making sure that show is a great experience,” he added.
A selling point for Arena@Expo, according to Ng, is that it simplifies the production process for event organisers.
The new venue charges a flat-fee venue rental with half-hall and full-hall options, and boasts a plug-and-play concert concept that comes with pre-configured basic production support, such as audio, intercom and lighting equipment; and LED wall; truss and rigging system; crowd management equipment and manpower; and more.
Organisers can utilise a 60 feet (18.3 metres) by 40 feet Grand Stage and a fixed production console. Floor space is flexible, and is good for up to 6,700 seats or a blended setup for 2,500 tiered seats and 4,200 in a standing pen. It can also cater to smaller gatherings of hundreds.
While Singapore Expo typically courts “very, very big” corporate incentive groups with around 20,000 delegates – where such events occupy multiple halls – Ng believes that the Arena@Expo is ideal for smaller gatherings with 6,000 or so attendees, especially those that intend to feature performances as part of the business programme.
Furthermore, as the Arena@Expo is intended to attract local and regional artists and has already built up strong interest among music promotors, Ng sees potential for business events held at Singapore Expo to weave concerts into their hospitality offering for high-value partners and delegates.
