Industry Insider - Danny Fisk of Work The Room Productions
What are some of your favorite venues for events in L.A. and why?
DF: I’m a sucker for venues that make you feel transformed by simply walking through the doors. The Los Angeles Theatre, The Park Plaza Hotel, The Davis Beach House, The Millennium Biltmore, Lombardi House, and Belasco Theater are just a few.
Located in Downtown Los Angeles, the Belasco Theater is a world-class multi-purpose event and entertainment complex boasting vibrant colors, ornate detailing, multiple floorplans, and state-of-the-art sound & lighting. With more than 40,000 square feet of space, the Belasco Theater offers a diverse set of dazzling options for events and can accomodate everything from concerts, weddings, corporate/premiere parties, movie screenings, club nights, and other special events.
What makes L.A. such an interesting location for meetings and events?
DF: Diversity - from the old to the new. There’s truly a flavor for everyone. Los Angeles is more than just a bunch of big box venues. I love taking clients on a journey of discovery through all the neighborhoods/cities that make up L.A. There are hidden gems around every corner, which makes L.A. truly a unique place for any meeting, conference or event. Sometimes, it’s overwhelming as to how many choices L.A. has to offer around attractions, cuisine, entertainment and shopping, but that’s part of the charm – the need for excess yields amazing experiences for everyone.
Is there a key to giving an event a distinctly Southern California vibe?
DF: It's more about how you choose to experience L.A. The great thing about this city is that you can do a day event at the beach and follow that up with an evening black tie gala under a space shuttle; all in one day!
The Samuel Oschin Pavilion, located inside the California Science Center, allows guests to mingle under the Space Shuttle Endeavour, the last orbiter built by NASA. This venue can accomodate up to 800 standing guests or up to 500 guests seated.
What drew you to event production as a career?
DF: It's more like, how did event production find me and refuse to let me go? Even though I went to school for my Masters in Anthropology, I kept finding myself in the position of orchestrating events. It’s a sort of addiction to the rollercoaster ride that is events – there’s no better high than getting into your car at 12:45 a.m., taking a breath and knowing you just created memories.
Where was the best meal you’ve ever had in Los Angeles and what was it?
DF: Growing up in L.A., I think some of the best meals have been at home, but I do have a few favorite foodie spots like The Tasting Kitchen, Republique, Sushi by H, Madeo and of course, Andrea’s Italian.
République offers traditional and contemporary French-style dining from Chef Walter Manzke, Margarita Manzke and partner Bill Chait. Built in 1928 and once the office for Charie Chaplin, République’s unique space provides many different options for private and semi-private dining. The entire restaurant can accommodate seated dinners for approximately 210 people or standing reception for up to 400.
As a Los Angeles insider, what activity would you recommend to visitors?
DF: I am a volunteer docent for the L.A. Conservancy. I always recommend to all of my clients and guests coming to town to spend their Saturday mornings on a historic guided tour of some of the most amazing buildings around Downtown Los Angeles. It's such a special way to see both what L.A. was once like and how the city is changing to be a leader in design, cuisine and culture.
Favorite hidden gem in L.A.?
DF: Venice Canals – so serene and beautiful!
Must pack item for a trip to Los Angeles?
DF: Flip Flops, camera, sunglasses, ChapStick.
Favorite neighborhood to explore?
DF: I love Koreatown - from the historic architecture, to the delicious food. There is nowhere in L.A. that offers better people watching than Koreatown. It really is the cross worlds of L.A. with amazing entertainment, food (not just Korean) never ending coffee shops and bakeries, and ample metered parking.
What are some of the most unique things you’ve helped your clients do for an event?
DF: It’s hard to say because each client and event is so different, with its own story to tell. My favorite thing at the moment is helping a client create a Boutonnière Bar where guests get to create their own. I love flowers and fashion, so combining the two is a dream!
What trends are you seeing for the coming year?
DF: I think people will be going back to the basics. Sometimes, the simple and organic options are the best. Sure, the food has to be great and the entertainment engaging, but more and more I am being asked how we can keep things simple while still being impactful. It’s about connecting with guests and getting the story across.
As true destination experts, L.A. Tourism offers award-winning experience, personalized service and seamless convenience. Want to learn more about Los Angeles or ready to plan your next event? Contact the L.A. Tourism Sales team to make your planning and decision-making easy, simple and stress-free. sales@latourism.org