An eventful ‘DOME’
In an interview, Mazhar Nadiadwala, Managing Director, Dome, envisions India as an iconic venue of international recognition and wants to create new benchmarks through highly curated experiential events
What latest technology does Dome provide to support events?
Dome is the first-of-its-kind indoor venue in India. It is the largest and the most adaptable space that can be personalised into any set depending on the kind of event. We provide international standard events to our clients with the latest technical services available in-house by our engineering team. There is a strong technical support team available in case of any requirement to go through plan layouts and execution. Dome has enhanced the acoustics of the arena and is equipped with one of the most powerful air conditioning systems. It is the only venue in Mumbai to offer a load bearing ceiling with suitable points to hang props. Additionally, the power distribution process enables performers
to plug in their systems and perform from any section of the arena.
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What are the differences and challenges, between conducting launch events, awards and festivals?
The main differences and challenges are: 1. Budget constraints: An event organiser often has problems while working within a rigid budget. During recession, the budget tends to be very low. However, expectations continue to grow. In the case of the event remaining for a social cause, the event organiser may rely on tax benefits. But if it is purely for entertainment purposes, then the challenge is huge. 2. Seating arrangements: Another issue that requires addressal is that of varying seating
arrangements. At huge events, where sitting with an unknown stranger becomes a point of concern, organisers aim to solve this problem by placing name cards on the table.
This major problem especially takes place at an award function where seating depends on the category of the guests.
3. Technology hassles: An event organiser has to stay up-to-date with the technology if they do not want to be left behind. Guests have several expectations that include Wi-Fi connectivity, electrical hook-ups for their gadgets and even 4G network availability. As an event organiser, these are key concerns that one must be mindful about.
4. Licences issue: Every event has different types of licenses required for smooth functioning. Too much time and energy is invested to organise licenses and permissions depending on events at hand.
What are the latest trends in holding events and exhibitions?
We usually operate by showcasing and allowing spaces to conduct events for various purposes. Exhibitions and events are usually considered temporary as they are scheduled for a specific duration. Exhibitions are usually of three kinds, but we only undertake commercial exhibitions.
The latest trends at events and exhibitions are: using technology to lower costs; gathering greater attendee information; niche events appealing to a small, specialised section of the population; event registrations and RSVPs; event layouts and table seating arrangements, social media and digital marketing.
Evaluate the current scenario in the weddings segment.
In today's time and age, Indian weddings are not only about white mares, gleaming sherwanis, baraatis dancing for long hours or 50 odd dishes cooked by a skilled halwaai. The millennials now want laser light shows, celeb performances, champagne chandeliers, fireworks, hydraulic stages and flying performers. They vary in themes ranging from talk shows to award nights, and Rajwada to Moroccan weddings. The latest trends
Dome is the only venue in Mumbai to offer a load bearing ceiling with points for props
with Indian weddings are: Drone photography; Wedding trailers; Pre- wedding shoots; Destination wedding venues; E-invites and save the date; Gota and Flower Jewellery.
As a venue supplier which are the vendors that you connect with for your events?
At Dome, we have a lot of different vendors for different events. Some of them are: Lights and Trussing: SSL Media Technology and Solutions; Modern Stage Services.
For sound: Electrocraft; Sound and Light Professionals. Video/ LED: Vinayak Video Vision; Modern Stage Services. For generator: Gentech India; Saj Generators. Which are the main events that have taken place here in 2017 and what has been lined up for the rest of the year and for 2018?
The year 2017 has been a challenging with a variety of events been showcased at Dome@NSCI. Some of the major events were: Filmfare Awards, Brave Combat Federation, Rumor- The White Dubai Edition II, OnePlus 5 Launch, Transform Maharashtra, Bridal Asia Mumbai, Pro Kabaddi League, Battleground Asia, Launch of Make In India, Kyoorius Creative Awards, 9th Royal Stag Mirchi Music Awards, Launch of BMW 5 Series, Colours Golden Petal Awards.
The year 2018 shall also see some exciting and glitizy events. Dome has lined some important events for 2018 and they will include award functions, musical concerts, and prominent product launches of the year.
The upcoming events for 2018 will be award functions, musical concerts, product launches