Live Event Scenting
Some of our shows include an option to add live event scenting to your performance. What this means is that a distinctive scent (i.e. forest, flowers, ocean, etc) is introduced to your hall in real time during the performance. These scents are carefully paired with the live event content and can greatly enhance the audience experience by adding an immersive sensory element to your production.
For example, in Julie Giroux's work "Blue Marble" the second movement is all about the earth's rainforests. The projected visuals offer stunning imagery of rainforests as digital audio SFX of rainforest animals play alongside the music. By adding the scent of a lush rainforest to the other sensory inputs we are able to transport the audience in a way not otherwise possible.
Scenting episodes usually last just a few minutes and most productions use just 1-3 different scents during the entire performance.
There are several technical considerations to consider as you decide id live event scenting will work for your production. Here is an overview.
ABOUT THE PRODUCT
Ion Concert Media works directly with ScentEvents as its scenting partner. This California based company provides live event scenting for major entertainment industry productions, corporate events and major theme parks. The scent is delivered through scent sleeves containing plastic pellets infused with the desired scent (see image at right). The ScentEvent products deploy scents in a “dry wave” process that infuses liquid fragrance oils into inert dry materials – moving air is then utilized to subtly distributed and circulate the aroma into the ambient air. Fragrances are manufactured in compliance with the current Standards contained in the Code of Practice published by the International Fragrance Association (IFRA). IFRA Standards are based on an objective safety assessment of individual fragrance ingredients conducted by an independent Panel of Experts, internationally known dermatologists, pathologists, toxicologists, and reproductive, environmental and respiratory scientists.
DELIVERING THE SCENT
The scenting pellets are contained inside the mesh sleeve at all times. A scenting deployment will require multiple scent sleeves. For smaller halls (up to about 800 seating capacity) we recommend about 12-14 sleeves. For larger halls we recommend 20-24 sleeves. Successfully delivering the scent to your audience relies on the natural airflow in your space. There are two methods to deploy the scent.
1. Through the hall's airflow system. *PREFERRED* For this method you will work with your hall's facilities team to gain access to the air exchanger for the performance space. At the appropriate time simply drop all the scent sleeves into the air exchanger. The scent should be delivered to all seats in the hall within 90-120 seconds. At the end of the scenting episodes simply remove the sleeves from the air exchanger. The aroma will dissipate in the hall within 3-4 minutes.
2. Using Floor Fans. If the hall's airflow system is not available to you the scent can be delivered using small (8 inch) oscillating desk fans placed at ground level along the left and right walls. For a small venue we suggest 12-14 fans; for a large hall you many need 20 fans or more. A person will need to be assigned to each fan. At the appropriate time they will remove the scent sleeve from an airtight container, attach it to the fan and turn on the fan. At the end of the episode they will turn off the fan and return the scent sleeve to its airtight container.
PRICING
Ion Concert Media rents scenting bundles for two-week periods. We have Small Venue and Large Venue Bundles available.
SMALL VENUE
Suggested for halls up to about 700 seats
18 scent sleeves (4 brand new, 14 previously opened sleeves)
$350 for two weeks
LARGE VENUE
Suggested for halls of 700-1200 seats
24 scent sleeves (6 brand new, 18 previously opened sleeves)
$450 for two weeks
EXTRA SLEEVES
$15 each
HELPFUL TIPS
1. Plan to test in your hall. Depending on the airflow you may need to make adjustments to your deployment strategy.
2. Consider making a public announcement that makes it clear that the scenting effect may have "sweet spots" within the hall. Seating in balconies or under eaves may not receive the full effect.
3. Keep the sleeves in their airtight containers when not in use. And consider waiting to open the brand new sleeves until the performance date.
4. Allow for audience and players. Most halls are designed to have the most efficient airflow when the heat from bodies and stage lighting causes the warm air to rise. We have seen very different scenting results in a 'cold' room as compared with the same space filled with audience and performers.
5. If you opt for the oscillating fan delivery method we can help you source fans with low dB's. In general, you want to find a small desk fan that sits low to the floor, operates under 35 dB and has a mechanical on/off switch. Larger fans create more noise and fans with electronic controls will likely beep when turned on or off. We have found 8 inch plastic oscillating desk fans to be an affordable and effective option.
6. Include us in your planning. We are happy to jump on a call to discuss your unique situation and build a package to meet your needs. Schedule a call on the Ion Concert Media website by clicking "Request a Meeting" in the CONTACT US drop down menu.
IMPORTANT NOTE
Live event scenting is an effective immersive aspect for your live show. But because every hall is different we cannot guarantee that the methods and practices given in this article will be effective in your space. Adequate testing and pre-planning is key to success.
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