In April 2021, TEDx Newcastle faced a formidable challenge: how to deliver an experience synonymous with in-person inspiration, while adhering to strict COVID-19 restrictions. The goal was clear — to preserve the magic of TEDx storytelling and connection, without a live audience. For the university’s events team, it wasn’t just about going online; it was about going global, without losing impact.
The Solution
Our team provided comprehensive technical production, live streaming, and event show production, working in close collaboration with TEDx’s curatorial leadership.
We transformed Proto, Gateshead, into a fully immersive broadcast hub. Here’s what we delivered:
- Multi-camera broadcast setup with a skilled team of camera operators
- Custom-built stage and lighting design to create a bold, dynamic backdrop
- Studio-quality audio capture, consistent with TED’s global standards
- COVID-safe workflows, including crew zoning and sanitation protocols
- Remote speaker integration, allowing global voices to join seamlessly
- Redundant 4G live stream infrastructure, ensuring uninterrupted delivery
- Live and pre-recorded content blending, giving viewers a polished, interactive experience
The speaker lineup featured global thought leaders across science, creativity, and psychology — with Chris Williamsonof Modern Wisdom headlining. Our task was to ensure every word landed with power and clarity.
The Result
With an on-the-ground crew of 8, working in sync with Ashleigh King and TEDx Newcastle President Gabriele Liaugodaite, we delivered a seamless and technically flawless broadcast.
The event drew over 6,000 live virtual attendees and amassed 250,000+ unique views, setting a new benchmark for digital TEDx events.
Key talks included:
- Chris Williamson – Embracing Your Weirdness
- Rob Baker – Cultivating Curiosity
- Matthew Walker – A World Made Better by Science
- And many more leading voices across business, creativity, and wellbeing.
Simple, elegant design paired with robust broadcast engineering helped maintain the emotional and intellectual punch of a live TEDx — now beamed to the world.
Watch Chris Williamson’s talk here:
Chris Williamson – Embracing Your Weirdness (TED.com)
