Gay Games VII Opening Ceremony

Chicago’s Soldier Field was home to The Opening Ceremony of Gay Games VII.  Ric Kirby was the lead producer of this heralded international event, and Ihrig Productions designed and created video graphics for the stadium’s large screens and ribbon boards.

Ric produced the entire event, which included a team of over 230 production professionals, engaged 1,400 performers, and featured the participation of more than 12,000 athletes from over 80 countries before an audience of 40,000 spectators.  As  the lead producer, he was responsible for all aspects of this landmark event including: production personnel selection and management, talent negotiation and contracting, budget and scheduling development and management, city, state and federal  governmental negotiations and coordination, and the design and execution of all creative, technical and logistical aspects of the production.

Spearheading a true collaboration with artists and animators in Europe and across the United States, Ihrig Productions created graphics and animations that supported speakers, performers, and dramatic movement through the four hour event.  We also provided on-site graphics production and stage management to ensure smooth integration into the overall event.