School & Teen Events New Show Concept Taking Off!

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Brian

Brian

DJ
Oct 28, 2006
1,005
10
North Carolina
www.southcharlottedj.com
With alot of help from DJ Carolina, South Charlotte Productions will in 2 weeks be launching a new school dance show concept. "Twilight" is a revolutionary school dance concept aimed to break from the norm, and give the kids something really unique. I'm really excited for this, its a great oppertunity to bring in something different to the schools, and use that to get more into the school market. Just from the concept and flyers alone, I've gotten 2 Twilight bookings so far, and a few more schools interested. Anyway, I thought I'd share the gear setup I'm doing for this show. Its not optimal, but here is a shot of how this show will be, and if its a success I'll go ahead and buy the other gear needed to make the show exactly how I'd like.

The selling points for this show are:
High Powered UV Cannons
Intellignet Light Show
UV CO2 Confetti Launches
Fog!
Complete Interactiveness!


This is how the first show will be.
twilightrev2.jpg

I'd like to add 2 more UV washes for sure, 2 750 watt DMX strobes, and 2 more scanners for this show, but its still trial and error still, which is why I haven't purchased all the equipment I'd like...when I see that this show is working and I'm making good money from it, I'll invest in the rest of the gear!
 
jkcomputers said:
Hmm... what about the Bliss Lights... I get a star feeling when you say twilight...
Maybe to save you some time, put the 4 ft black light bars on the speaker stands vertically... And you will have subs right?
Click to expand...

I really like the Bliss Light effect, but its just way too expensive right now. I'd rather invest elsewhere rather then spend $800 for a light. If there is a cheaper alternative then I'd look into it.

The reasoning behind the 4' black bars each on their own T-bar is to not only to better spread the UV throw, but also because it gives my system a bigger look :sqwink:.

And yeah I've got subs, the speakers in the picture were just to help draw everything out sort of to scale.
 
This is a very cool idea, but I do suggest having some sort of centerpiece effect. Two more scanners like you said would help, but I would consider an EFX500/600/700 or a Wizard Extreme. Maybe even an Acrobat. Otherwise it's a pretty 'static' light show. Not much 'action'.
 
DJ Wes said:
This is a very cool idea, but I do suggest having some sort of centerpiece effect. Two more scanners like you said would help, but I would consider an EFX500/600/700 or a Wizard Extreme. Maybe even an Acrobat. Otherwise it's a pretty 'static' light show. Not much 'action'.
Click to expand...

True, and in the shortrun we are making up for that with very high energy songs, and lots of interactiveness. A centerpiece has been on my list, and I'm waiting to find a good deal on an EFX500 or something similar to give the show that extra punch.
 
ive seen "Confetti Launchers" come up a few times in previous posts, any ideas on some nice/affordable ones? Or do you make them or what? Thanks!


Also what would you guys think is better, American DJ UV Panel (4x40w=160w), or the Elation UV Wash(100w)?
 
confetti launchers will need to be approved as it makes quite a mess to include finding its way into ventilation systems. I use em at a couple venues and you can either buy a dedicated unit or buy the disposable guns I typically use as I dont do them often enough. If your venue is cool with the cleanup for the benefit of the effect then I would suggest a dedicated unit. Some others can recommend such units here. Im a disposable type guy and can help you find those units if your interested.

Heres a site I have found easily but do a google search for disposable confetti Cannons and you might find something more suited for your needs.
http://www.southernballoon.com/disposablehandheldconfetticannon.aspx
 
If the answer is not proprietary and/or does not require any privileged info, I'd like to ask, "What does the Twilight concept cost to produce and what are you charging and/or being paid?"
 
I make my own launchers using a modified irrigation valve and PVC. Yes, Streamers....not confetti.

I think your lighting scheme is good. I'd continue on with lasers and movers if possible.

SOunds like a fun concept. I think the black light party needs to be pretty static with the exeption of strobes. The kids wearing the right colors BECOME the light show.

Try to light from all sides of the room if possible I'm guessing.

I think I need to give this a go.

thanks for sharing!
 
jtnichol said:
I make my own launchers using a modified irrigation valve and PVC. Yes, Streamers....not confetti.

I think your lighting scheme is good. I'd continue on with lasers and movers if possible.

SOunds like a fun concept. I think the black light party needs to be pretty static with the exeption of strobes. The kids wearing the right colors BECOME the light show.

Try to light from all sides of the room if possible I'm guessing.

I think I need to give this a go.

thanks for sharing!
Click to expand...

Thanks for the kind words, If this takes off how I would like I will certainly be upping the lighting. Since I don't have strobes (yet) I made a DMX program that will send the colorstrips into their strobe mode, which is almost as good as real strobes and will certainly provide a close enough effect.
 
Brian said:
Thanks for the kind words, If this takes off how I would like I will certainly be upping the lighting. Since I don't have strobes (yet) I made a DMX program that will send the colorstrips into their strobe mode, which is almost as good as real strobes and will certainly provide a close enough effect.
Click to expand...

Diversitronics Strobes....nuff said.
 
It would seem that the cost to produce as Roxy asked about really wouldn't be all that much. I would think, that yeah you buy a few more Blacklights, but other than that, the "cost" would be the same as in any school dance.

I was going to say streamers to, I also use Flutter Fetti..... if loaded right, you could but a small bunch of the confetti in the tip of the barrel so the streamers push it out and the up close people get a little something without to much of a mess...
 
Brian really has a great business mindset and I'm sure he'll do well with this venture. For me, its cool to sit back and watch as he takes ideas and resources that I've given him, and apply them to his specific market. This is a great example of how networking can pay off. While it'd be nice to be able to take credit, Brian has really done a lot of the work involved in putting together these shows. A high-energy school show is about far more than cool lights and loud music, its about captivating the audience and creating an atmosphere that grips them and really gives them a 3D party experience. Thats why I began incorporating things Like the confetti, that 3rd tangible dimension.

For those out there who haven't experimented with confetti, the folks at flutterfetti really are great. They created a new product availibility with the neon streamers for me, and Brian was able to get them to create 18" Airless Launchers (flick sticks) containing the neon streamers when the conditions don't warrant or suit the use of a CO2 launcher. Its really an awesome effect when put together correctly. I'll be trying out my new Kabuki wireless launchers this friday, and i'm very excited!
 
So How Does This Help You Book School Gigs???
Schools In My Market Are Cutting Cost...

I Have To Compete With $350.00 or Less DJs...

Who Cleans Up The Mess?

Most Of The Schools In My Market Would Also Say Tone Down The UV...
They Hate Strobes... ( We Don't Want Anyone To Have A Seizure )...

My Proms Would Go For This Gig, But The Trend Here Has Also Been To Down Size The Schools...
They Are Building New Smaller Schools...
( Community Schools With Less Students 800 Max Per High School )
That Means Less Money To Work With Come Prom Time...

Just My 2 Cents ... & Rants...
Good Luck With Concept, It Looks Fun...
 
APartyDJ said:
1. So How Does This Help You Book School Gigs???

2. Schools In My Market Are Cutting Cost...

3. I Have To Compete With $350.00 or Less DJs...

4. Who Cleans Up The Mess?

5. Most Of The Schools In My Market Would Also Say Tone Down The UV...
They Hate Strobes... ( We Don't Want Anyone To Have A Seizure )...

6. They Are Building New Smaller Schools...
( Community Schools With Less Students 800 Max Per High School )
That Means Less Money To Work With Come Prom Time...
Click to expand...

I know this is Brian's thread but in many ways, his and my concept are pretty much identical.

1. As far as booking school gigs, WE use this to sell schools more than just a DJ service. A concept with a unique name and a structure sets the twilight concept apart from other DJ's. So many performers still market themselves as a "mobile dj service".

2. Many schools are cutting costs and for me, this is a way to capitolize on their cost cutting. I don't know what Brian's pricing points will be, but for me this package is aimed at attracting middle schools with budgets between $300 and $450 to spend on an entertainment package. It seals in the work for me because there is NO other DJ in my area that can compete with the interactivity, and high-energy show that i provide, especially not in the price range that I provide it in.

3. Competition is something that will always be relevant. My question is- are those $350 DJs doing something right? I understand your concern if theyre getting the bookings with 2 mackies and a revo. You put on a quality show and its discouraging to lose business solely over price. Luckily, this package creates the perfect brand- it combines value AND quality. My sugguestion to anyone that has a problem with MY packages causing competition to them is to find a way to become competitive again.

4. Streamer confetti doesn't cause a mess. The products that Brian and I shoot are made of a mylar foil and PVC product. Theyre 15' long and an average shoot contains 24 of the streamers. Most kids actually grab the streamers in the air and wear them. The few that end up on the floor can be picked up within a few seconds. Most schools sweep and mop after an event anyway but should one be concerned, i'd be happy to clean up the confetti myself.

5. UV is only one aspect of the show and it does not cause a problem with lighting. The show also utilizes LED strip washing effects that adequately light the room. Strobes are not essential to the show, merely an enhancement and should a school be concerned (none have yet for me) we can remove them from the show.

6. If that is the case, then perhaps you should consider creating packages that these schools will be more likely to book. Its better to get the school and book less than to miss out all together. Most schools have decent budgets and as an entertainment agency, I think its essential that we adapt to our markets.
 
Djcarolina said:
I know this is Brian's thread but in many ways, his and my concept are pretty much identical.

1. As far as booking school gigs, WE use this to sell schools more than just a DJ service. A concept with a unique name and a structure sets the twilight concept apart from other DJ's. So many performers still market themselves as a "mobile dj service".

2. Many schools are cutting costs and for me, this is a way to capitalize on their cost cutting. I don't know what Brian's pricing points will be, but for me this package is aimed at attracting middle schools with budgets between $300 and $450 to spend on an entertainment package. It seals in the work for me because there is NO other DJ in my area that can compete with the interactivity, and high-energy show that i provide, especially not in the price range that I provide it in.

3. Competition is something that will always be relevant. My question is- are those $350 DJs doing something right? I understand your concern if theyre getting the bookings with 2 mackies and a revo. You put on a quality show and its discouraging to lose business solely over price. Luckily, this package creates the perfect brand- it combines value AND quality. My sugguestion to anyone that has a problem with MY packages causing competition to them is to find a way to become competitive again.

4. Streamer confetti doesn't cause a mess. The products that Brian and I shoot are made of a mylar foil and PVC product. Theyre 15' long and an average shoot contains 24 of the streamers. Most kids actually grab the streamers in the air and wear them. The few that end up on the floor can be picked up within a few seconds. Most schools sweep and mop after an event anyway but should one be concerned, i'd be happy to clean up the confetti myself.

5. UV is only one aspect of the show and it does not cause a problem with lighting. The show also utilizes LED strip washing effects that adequately light the room. Strobes are not essential to the show, merely an enhancement and should a school be concerned (none have yet for me) we can remove them from the show.

6. If that is the case, then perhaps you should consider creating packages that these schools will be more likely to book. Its better to get the school and book less than to miss out all together. Most schools have decent budgets and as an entertainment agency, I think its essential that we adapt to our markets.
Click to expand...

DJ Carolina hit it right on the head. The main purpose of this show idea is to have a unique show that schools can book for the same prices as the typical "mobile dj services", but provide so much more, and leave the students begging for more.

One point that DJ Carolina left out (but it was his idea) is the fundraising aspect of these shows. Since they are heavily based on the use of UV lights and the whole "glow" effect, what works better for props then glow sticks and necklaces?

I run this show in right now 3 different packages. The smallest is really only recommended for schools where the turnout will be very low, within 50-75 kids. The middle show is more aimed for the first timers, and hopefully if everything goes to plan, all my Twilight booking schools will be using the biggest package each and every time. However, this package is considerably more expensive then the lower priced packages.

  • Intro to Twilight
  • Twilight Essentials
  • The Ultimate Twilight Experience

With the middle package, we throw in 50 free glow necklaces. If the schools sell these necklaces for a mere $1-$3 (yes students WILL pay) each, they have instantly paid for the upcharge of the middle show. With the larger show I throw in 100 free glow necklaces, and advertise the same thing. The glow necklaces don't cost me much, so I'm winning, and the school is winning. Its really a win win win, because the students LOVE glow necklaces and other glow props.
 
Ok... All Good

Again, Are You Saying You Do This Gig For $400.00...

It Looks To Me Like A $2000.00 Gig... Most Of The Schools Around Here can't Do That...
And I Wont Do That Kind Of Gig For $400.00...

As to Are The $350.00 Or Less DJs Doing Something Right...
You Tell Me.

They Come In To A School With Dances Having 250 Kids Show Up...
They Play the Gig With Something Like (1) Matrix 2000 Sound System & Some Lighting...
The DJ Plays Only Songs From A Cut Sheet His Boss Gave Him...

They Got The Gig Over Price, So They Get The Next Gig.
Only 100 Kids Show Up...
( The School Loses Money & The Kids Stop Coming To The Dances )...

So After They Lose Money On 2 or 3 Gigs The School Calls Us Back & We Build The Attendance Back Up To Around 200 or 300 Kids... ( The Goal Is To Have A Fun Party )
So The Kids Want To Come To The Next Dance... Also We Hype The Next Dace...

I Think The Main Thing Is THE DJ...
I Could Build Attendance With Out A Light Show...
The Lighting Makes Things Flow But The Gig Is The DJ...

P.S. Its Late I Have Had A Few Drinks & I Apologize For The Rant...
I Have Been In The Biz For 27 Yrs... I Work Too Hard To Give My Shows Away...

My 2 cents Worth...
 
Sorry , Its Me Again I Was Reading It Over Again...
Im Still Floored...

>>>> This package is aimed at attracting middle schools with budgets between $300 and $450 to spend on an entertainment package. It seals in the work for me because there is NO other DJ in my area that can compete with the interactivity, and high-energy show that i provide, especially not in the price range that I provide it in.<<<

How Do You Make Any Money?

Gas... To The Gig... $20
Music For The Gig... $50
If You Need A Helper... $30
Props... $50

DJ Insurance...
Car Insurance...
Cost Of Business...
( Phone, Biz Cards, Web Site Office Space, Wear & Tear On Your Van & Your Gear ... )
Reinvestment Funds Back In To Your Company...

YOUR TIME $
 
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