One of the most popular happenings during HITEC is the Opening Party! Back in 2011, the idea was proposed to move the Opening Party out of the host hotel since so many of our attendees work in hotels and have seen their fair share of ballrooms. So, the Opening Party took to the streets of our host cities allowing attendees the chance to enjoy the beautiful locations that house HITEC.
2014 is no different with the Opening Party being held at another landmark destination in Los Angeles, The Belasco Theater. A relic of the 1920s, The Belasco Theater made its grand reopening debut in March 2011 after laying dormant for more than 20 years. Thanks to an extensive three year restoration, the venue retains most of its original architecture – meshed with impressive sound and lighting capabilities. Located just blocks away from the L.A. Live complex in the heart of downtown Los Angeles, this venerable landmark is the city’s premiere multi-purpose event and entertainment complex.
HITEC will take over the entire Belasco Theater allowing HITEC attendees to explore the landmark destination from top to bottom. Besides the Main Theater, which is a perfect place to network in, HITEC attendees can explore the entirety of the venue complimented with snacks and drinks:
The Main Theater
Featuring three fully accessible lit bars, an elegant multi-tiered balcony overlooking the stage area featuring rows of comfortable booths, and two separate patios to enjoy the LA evening.
The Ballroom
Swathed in shades of deep red and gold, the Belasco Theater’s private ballroom is a perfect choice for networking. Complete with a stage that anchors the room, flanked by seven large leather booths on each side and a sizable dance floor. On its walls sit Greek-style sculptures juxtaposed with intricate awnings and molding, creating a truly elegant feel
Vintage 10 Fifty
Attendees also can visit Vintage 10 Fifty, which features a towering two-story bar, plush booths, three plasma screen TVs and a second story Mezzanine Lounge for extra seating.
The Basement Lounge
Explore this somewhat secret space located below the Main Theater lobby and connects directly to the Main Theater’s dressing rooms. Paying homage to its “speak easy” past, the Basement Lounge features an elegant dance floor, comfortable booths, colorful bar and a storied bridge.
We’ve also extended the official party by one hour allowing you to drink and be merry until 9:00 p.m. Just around the time dinner is served in LA! We look forward to welcoming everyone to Los Angeles and especially to the beautiful Belasco Theater.
For more information on The Belasco Theater visit their website.
Steven Stout, CAE, is director of meetings and special events for HFTP. Contact Steven at steven.stout@hftp.org.
