Case Study: Bringing SYPG’s The Nutcracker to new heights through live streaming

Honoring a family tradition with technology. 

Let’s journey into the world of Springfield, IL where a cherished tradition takes center stage every year – The Nutcracker Ballet, performed by the talented Springfield Youth Performance Group (SYPG). But this isn’t just a show; it’s a heartwarming tradition that weaves itself into the very soul of the community. This year, SYPG decided to sprinkle a little tech magic onto this tradition through live streaming.

For SYPG, The Nutcracker is more than dance; it’s a cultural heartbeat. Taryn Grant, the Executive Director, beautifully explains, “It embodies the holiday spirit and is a tradition for many families – and we’re proud to be part of that.” Families flock to this annual spectacle, crafting timeless memories.

 

The decision to live stream with Live Oak AV

The decision to add live streaming to the performance wasn’t taken lightly, as Taryn explains, “A performance like The Nutcracker, aside from being a staple in the ballet world, is one that our community holds dear… And because most of our guests see this performance each year, there’s a high level of expectation on what they see and experience with all their senses. And as this performance has grown in technicality, both on and off the stage, we needed to be able to deliver that experience to those who could not psychically attend. Namely, members of our community, their families, and our outreach groups.” 

Live Oak AV wasn’t just a contractor; they were welcomed as collaborators in this tech adventure. Taryn expresses why Live Oak worked for SYPG, “When you are a family-focused organization like we are, it’s important to have tech advisors who understand the mission. That’s why we are so lucky to have Violet and Sam of Live Oak AV as our advisors – who know that children and their pursuit of the arts is our main focus. Live Streaming was a brand new path for SYPG, I was very intimidated by it at first, and quickly learned I didn’t need to be. Live Oak explained the process to me, and the way they designed it was very exciting! I’m so glad we took that leap of faith and tried something new. I can see us growing this offering over the coming years.

Live Oak’s role went beyond tech. They became guardians of SYPG’s mission, ensuring every emotion on stage reached the digital audience. Their expertise matched SYPG’s essence – enriching children’s lives through the arts. 

Navigating New Paths: Live Streaming Challenges and Successes

Transitioning from basic tech to a sophisticated setup that would support live streaming was a shift for SYPG. Explaining this new direction to the staff had challenges. Taryn reflects, “Live Oak AV pressed the importance of showcasing SYPG for live stream viewers by highlighting costumes, specific placement of dancers, and strategic lighting – I’d never even thought to approach our performances that way.” The focus changed from just presenting a show to creating a multi-sensory experience. Live Oak’s guidance extended to every detail, ensuring each performance became a visual symphony.

In one touching story, a mother, struck by illness, couldn’t attend her daughter’s performance. But thanks to the live stream, she didn’t miss the magic. She watched her daughter’s grace and the allure of The Nutcracker, live from home. Turning a potentially missed moment into a cherished memory.

 

Tech Evolution: From High School to Live Streaming Mastery

In the past, SYPG relied on a high school broadcasting class for tech needs. This arrangement aligned with their mission of including students in their programs. However, as their productions grew more technically complex, the need for a more seasoned approach became evident. Live streaming wasn’t just tech; it became a strategic decision to make their art accessible to a global audience.

“Having a meaningful recording for families, something that captures those childhood memories, is very important to us. And it’s the responsibility of both our technical team and performance staff to ensure those recordings are of the best quality we can provide. And now when I’m producing a show, I plan to consult with Live Oak AV to make sure we have the right lighting and the color of the costumes will work – and ultimately, how to keep the children at center stage.”

 

Live Oak and SYPG: An Artistic Collaboration

The journey between Live Oak AV and SYPG was an artistic collaboration, committed to amplifying community moments. Taryn’s words capture this sentiment: “Our job is to give children the stage; they will always rise to the occasion. And working with Live Oak, they were able to share that with friends and family across the world.”

When asked about her favorite part of the event, Taryn explains, “I loved seeing the raw joy of the performers as they came backstage. The energy from that final show was spectacular, I couldn’t have been more proud of the performers and the entire staff who made it happen. The fact that Live Oak saw the responsibility of creating these memories and respected what these young performers have worked so hard to achieve was so amazing. You were able to teach me to value it and step forward into this new dimension of live events. And for that, I’m truly grateful. Our job is to give children the stage, they will always rise to the occasion. And working with Live Oak they were able to share that with friends and family across the world.”

If there was any residual doubt about implementing a live stream of the performance, it was quickly dissolved after guests started sounding in. Taryn shares some of that praise here, “And just let me say, I’ve already had feedback on this year’s livestream and people are telling me how beautiful and dynamic it was, that they could truly see and sense the drama on stage. I also got a lot of positive comments on the clarity of the feed and the graphics. It’s safe to say I think we’ve found a new partner with this live stream.”

“And funny enough, I was getting messages on my phone during the show about how great it was. Which makes me excited because if someone is conveying it in real time that means it’s a raw emotion and they are in the moment.“

 

Amplifying our communities, together

In the end, the artistry of SYPG’s Nutcracker found a new dimension. It touched lives far beyond the stage, thanks to the partnership with Live Oak AV and our shared mission of amplifying our communities. 

“I so appreciate the time and patience Live Oak took in explaining the new process of live streaming to me. Having someone to hold my hand through all the scary technical stuff (which wasn’t scary at all) was incredibly helpful. The change to our program was huge, and it has had a dynamic impact on our online viewing. Our recording is certainly something that I’m proud of and happy to promote.” Taryn Grant, Executive Director, Springfield Youth Performance Group

 

Photos credited to: 1221 Photography