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On Oct. 21, Boston’s movers, shakers and dedicated philanthropists descended upon the Mandarin Oriental for UnMask Cancer, an evening benefiting Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and the Jimmy Fund, presented by Herb Chambers.
For the 2017 event, Tyger Productions was enlisted to produce a dramatic transformation of the Mandarin Oriental ballroom creating a heightened level of excitement for the evening. Tyger is known for designing and producing high-visibility projects for nonprofit clients in Boston and New York including the Friends of Dana-Farber, Home Base Program, the NASCAR Foundation and amfAR.
With a record attendance of more than 400 guests, the soiree has become one of the city’s most anticipated annual fundraising events. This year’s “un-gala” raised almost $300,000 for the Institute’s mission of supporting cutting-edge cancer research and discovering the latest developments and breakthroughs in the field.
Ty Kuppig--principal at Tyger--and his team created a glamorous “Art Deco Chic” atmosphere with lavish decor elements pulled from Tyger Productions’ in-house inventory of high-end decor. Kuppig focused on creating large visual statements that would elevate the experience and surprise guests--a favorite strategy for delivering maximum impact while remaining cost-effective.
Another focal point was a dramatic backdrop of mirrored gold treatment that backed the stage and created a reflective statement that captured movement as guests hit the dance floor. To finish the look, Tyger incorporated lounge seating vignettes and a 32’ long mirrored bar from Reserve Modern.
One of the most striking elements of the design was the use of dramatic, illuminated cut-crystal spheres, which added a dazzling look. Large 24-inch crystal spheres on tall gold pedestals dominated the center of the room, appearing to “almost float in mid-air,” according to guests. These were balanced with crystal columns suspended from the ceiling down the length of the space. Finally, a breathtaking waterfall curtain of cut crystal created created a sparkling transition overhead as guests approached the dance floor.
A closer look. AV was handled by Tyger and HeavySound Productions.
Two guests relax thanks to furniture from Reserve Modern.
A glowing scene. Entertainment was provided by Rich DiMare.
A guest gets into the gala's theme with her elegant mask.
Pretty masks make for a social-media moment.
Guests enjoying the gala.
![](https://www.specialevents.com/sites/specialevents.com/files/styles/gal_landscape_main_2_standard/public/Unmask_Cancer_2017_01_0.jpg?itok=aLxZ3oD1)