Pandora at SXSW 2017
In 2017, Stoelt Productions partnered with Pandora to create an unforgettable activation at South by Southwest (SXSW) in Austin, Texas, celebrating the launch of Pandora Premium. Spanning three city blocks and encompassing 300,000 square feet, the activation transformed Austin’s iconic 6th and 7th streets into a vibrant festival experience. This large-scale endeavor showcased Pandora’s dedication to connecting fans with the music they love, featuring a custom-built stage, dynamic sponsor activations, and an artist village. The installation embodied the energy and innovation of Pandora’s brand while standing out as one of the most significant footprints in SXSW history.
At the heart of the activation was The Gatsby, a repurposed bar transformed into a Pandora-branded house. With neon signage, immersive music, and meticulously styled rooms, this pre-show space built excitement and served as a hub for guests to engage with Pandora’s offerings. Outside, attendees explored activations from brands like Ashley Home Store, McDonald's, and FedEx, each designed to enhance the festival experience. Highlights included the Pandora Genome Dome, where fans discovered new music tailored to their tastes, shaded lounges with phone charging stations, and even a custom rickshaw from Advance Auto Parts for seamless festival transportation.
This comprehensive activation, executed in just four days, involved intricate logistics and precise attention to detail. From staging and fencing to branded aesthetics and sponsor integrations, Stoelt Productions delivered an unparalleled festival experience. The use of bold shapes, dynamic designs, and interactive elements created a visually stunning environment that amplified the festival's energy. By seamlessly integrating Pandora’s message of "Finding The Music You Love" into every touchpoint, Stoelt Productions delivered an experience that left a lasting impression, cementing Pandora’s presence as a leader in the music streaming industry.
Pandora’s SXSW 2017
CLIENT: Pandora
TYPE: Music Festival
LOCATION: SXSW, Downtown Austin, Texas
ACTUALIZATION: A multi-block experiential activation featuring live music, sponsor engagements, and branded spaces, designed to amplify excitement for Pandora Premium and connect attendees with Pandora’s music discovery mission.
OUR ROLE:
Concept Development + Strategy
Location Scouting + Permitting
Stage Design, Fabrication, + Installation
Sponsor Activation Design + Execution
Custom Builds, including Genome Dome + Artist Village
Branded Venue Transformation at The Gatsby
Lighting, Audio, + Video Integration
Guest Flow Management + Security
On-Site Operations + Coordination
