
Perelman Performing Arts Center
Premier Performing Arts Center Launch in New York City
Services Provided
About
Markham partnered with The Perelman Performing Arts Center (PAC NYC) and Bloomberg Philanthropies to launch the world-class cultural venue through a series of high-profile events. Markham-produced events included media tours, press conferences, an art-filled ribbon-cutting ceremony, and a star-studded opening gala featuring Grammy, Oscar, and Tony-winning artists. The launch generated significant media coverage, boosting PAC NYC's visibility and establishing it as a premier cultural hub in New York City.
Overview
The Challenge
The Perelman Performing Arts Center (PAC NYC) and Bloomberg Philanthropies approached Markham for our support to successfully launch their world-class performing arts venue in New York City, ensuring it was positioned as a premier cultural hub. With the venue still under construction and key operational processes in flux, they needed a partner who could manage high-profile events, activate unfinished spaces, and coordinate complex logistics to create a seamless, high-impact experience that would capture the attention of influential stakeholders.
The Solution
To bring this momentous launch to life, we partnered closely with PAC NYC and Bloomberg Philanthropies’ internal teams to address the unique complexities of activating a brand new building. With core operations like permitting, security, freight access, and production workflows still being finalized, we served as strategic partners in navigating these evolving systems. We developed original event floorplans and renders to help visualize how each space could function, even as final construction and furnishing were still underway. Our team managed the overall production schedule and provided ongoing guidance on event flow and guest experience. We also oversaw all artist logistics for the ribbon cutting performances, including hospitality, transportation, production needs, and rehearsals, ensuring every element from red carpet arrivals to on-stage performances was executed with precision.
The Impact
The launch events generated widespread press coverage and positioned PAC NYC as a major new player in the city’s cultural landscape from day one. Our work on the original launch helped shape foundational processes that have since been replicated across future initiatives, including the newly established annual ICONS of Culture Festival, where we also served as strategic partners.
Day One
Ribbon Cutting Ceremony & Press Conference
Morning to Early Afternoon
Official ribbon cutting and press conference to celebrate the grand opening of PAC NYC. The program featured remarks from PAC NYC leadership, Bloomberg Philanthropies, and city officials, alongside live performances from Broadway actors, classical musicians, live dancers, and more. Media tours and photo opportunities followed, generating extensive press coverage.
Day Two
Opening Night Gala Performance & Reception
Evening
A formal gala evening featuring a ticketed performance by Grammy, Oscar, and Tony-winning artists, attended by notable figures from the arts, philanthropy, and public life. The night concluded with an exclusive reception, offering guests a first look at the space and celebrating PAC NYC’s official debut as a major cultural institution.
The Gallery
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