The World Savings and Retail Banking Institute (WSBI) celebrated its 100th anniversary in Rome. Representatives from banks, financial institutions and international organisations from around the world gathered at one of the most significant events in the global financial sector. The Hurricane team’s task was to design and oversee the technical and production aspects of the event to ensure it met the expectations of the international audience, both in the venue and online. The congress took place in a hybrid format, with one of the main priorities being to ensure an equally high-quality experience for participants on site and for viewers watching the event remotely.
In our design, we focused not only on the technology itself, but above all on how participants would experience the event. The hybrid format was supported by robotic PTZ cameras and simultaneous interpreting into five languages, enabling participants from different countries to take part without any language or geographical barriers. The main programme took place in the iconic Auditorium della Tecnica. To ensure that every participant would have a high-quality visual experience regardless of their position in the hall, we developed the entire stage concept using 3D simulations. These allowed us to plan the stage, visuals and the movement of individual elements in detail even before the actual production. The centrepiece of the space was a curved LED screen measuring 20 × 4.5 metres with a resolution of almost 8K. Together with the broadcast-style stage, it created a striking visual whole that seamlessly integrated the content of the presentations, discussions and live broadcast. During the speech by Italian President Sergio Mattarella, which was also broadcast by Italian national television, the lighting was adjusted to highlight every detail. Transparent elements and reflective surfaces created the impression of an open and timeless space. Every detail was designed to support the content without distracting the participants’ attention.
The 100th anniversary of the WSBI required more than just the technical organisation of the conference. Our aim was to create an environment that naturally links the organisation’s history with its vision for the future. We therefore devised an immersive scenographic concept in which the architecture of the space, technology, content, visual design and dramaturgy came together to form a single functional whole. An important part of the event was also a multimedia exhibition charting a hundred years of WSBI’s history. We designed and produced bespoke exhibition elements for the client. Through a combination of backlit graphics and interactive touchscreens, we created a space where participants could explore the organisation’s key milestones independently and discover its history at their own pace. The result was achieved not only through technology, but above all through the coordination of dozens of experts, meticulous preparation and teamwork. From the initial designs right through to the final details of the implementation, the entire team worked towards a single goal: to create an event worthy of the significance of WSBI’s centenary.
The WSBI World Congress confirmed that even the most demanding international projects require more than just technical equipment. They require a partner capable of combining creativity, technology, project management and meticulous execution into a single, cohesive whole. The result was an event that fittingly celebrated 100 years of WSBI’s history, whilst providing a first-class experience for all participants, whether they were sitting in the conference hall in Rome or watching the broadcast from the other side of the world.
– an immersive set that drew the audience into the story,
– a hybrid format that cut costs whilst providing online viewers with a high-quality experience,
– a conference designed in accordance with the principles of television production,
– an exhibition area created specifically to mark the centenary of the WSBI,
– a consistent visual identity throughout both the conference and the exhibition,
– the assurance that every detail will be in place for the audience both in the auditorium and online.
Hurricane was an integral partner in creating an unforgettable experience at the WSBI World Congress, whether in Paris in 2022 or at our centenary edition in Rome. Their dedicated team worked round the clock and managed to set everything up in just three days – a huge task which they tackled with incredible dedication. From the breathtaking 17-metre-long curved screen, through the lighting and sound systems, to the beautifully designed WSBI 100th-anniversary exhibition area – every element reflected their expertise and passion. The atmosphere created by Hurricane was truly exceptional, and both our members and guests were deeply impressed. Throughout our collaboration, Hurricane has always been a friendly, professional and reliable partner.
