The Burgeoning Dance Scene in Cuba
Having recently returned from an inspiring trip to Cuba, we were deeply affected by the spirit of the people there. Their profound love of life, indomitable spirit, and a fierce energy filled with the joy and lust for making the most of each day is ubiquitous in a place where on the surface, time has seemed to stop. One of the most striking examples of the Cuban spirit is the love of dance. The country is filled with an unavoidable exuberance that starts with music and then gathers you into its arms inviting you to move your hips and join the fiesta! With roots in Spanish and African culture, Cuban folkloric dance includes Salsa, Danzón, Mambo, Rumba, Bolero, Cha Cha, Congo, and more. Passionate and sensual, these dance forms have affected cultures all around the world, bringing people together in an undeniable spirit of celebration. With Castro in power, folkloric dance has been one of the most prevalent forms, often seen in a formal frame at the Gran Teatro de la Habana. Ballet too has occupied a strong position in Cuban culture. The Ballet Nacional de Cuba, founded by Alicia Alonso in 1948, has maintained over the years a very classical and conservative repertoire, with little variation on the standard themes such as Swan Lake and Giselle. In 1959 the Conjunto Nacional de Danza Moderna was founded by Ramiro Guerra, who danced with Martha Graham’s company in the United States. Combining ballet technique with Afro-Caribbean dance, audiences were steeped in a distinctly unique flavor expressing the Cuban spirit. The company is now called Danza Contemporànea de Cuba (DCC) and boasts 60 dancers chosen from the famed Escuela Nacional de Arte under the direction of Miguel Iglesias. Many dance aficianados are familiar with the well-known and exquisitely talented Carlos Acosta, who was born in Havana in 1973. Acosta trained at the National Ballet School of Cuba and has danced with many companies outside of the country, including England’s Royal Ballet where he has been principal dancer since 1998. Along with now retired José Manuel Carreño, who danced with companies such as the Royal Ballet and American Ballet Theatre, and who presently runs the Carreño Dance Festival in Sarasota, Florida, Acosta remains an inspiration to young Cuban ballet dancers who wish to push the limits. Over the last several years, Cuban dance has been able to push the limits. More and more we see experimental dance companies being founded, with many young choreographers expressing their thirst for new forms. Small companies such as Malpaso are starting to make big waves in the contemporary dance scene. Founded in 2012 by Osnel Delgado, Dailedys Carrazana, and Fernando Saéz, the company consists of young dancers from some of the country’s most renowned dance schools and is acclaimed as one of Cuba’s best. Ballet Rakatan is another example of the burgeoning dance scene. Founded in 2001 by dancer/choreographer Nilda Guerra, the company combines Cuban and Latin dance styles with contemporary technique. With dancers trained at the Escuela Nacional de Arte, Ballet Rakatan tours all over the world, immersing audiences in the spice and pulse of popular Cuban dance marinated in world-class technique. www.tocaevents.com www.tocatrips.com
Dining Out of Our Comfort Zone
Dining out of our comfort zone often occurs when we’re traveling to places where we are unfamiliar with the language. Trying out foods and flavors on a hunch or recommendation is one of the best ways to discover the nuances of a culture, as well as to test our sense of gustatory adventure. At TOCA Events, we relish these moments in travel where we can give unidentifiable ingredients the chance to expand our palate. In this spirit we would like to offer you a few examples of exotic foods that we’ve tried and loved. The following all began as mysteries and ended up on our list of favorite foods of the world We only had to hear our Japanese friends from Osaka say the word, “okonomiyaki” to have our curiosity aroused. A sizzling omelette was made with spring onions mixed into the batter and then filled with cabbage, eggs, mixed vegetables and a choice of meat or seafood. Cooked in a stock made with dried kelp and flaked bonito, this dish, which is often called ‘Osakan soul food,’ is served with several different sauces that create a tantalizing combination of sweet and salty. One of our favorite dishes in Greece is “melizanosalata,” which is a tangy dip made with roasted eggplant and red peppers, garlic, and fish eggs. Spread on bread or placed on a baked potato, add lemon and olive oil and this Mediterranean delicacy is a wonderful appetizer, especially coupled with a good red wine. If you are planning to travel to Istanbul, you will find an extremely diverse cuisine there, which makes it very exciting to eat out. We love to eat “künefe,” which is a traditional pastry made with unsalted cheese placed in between very thin layers of dough. Soaked in a sweet syrup, it is served warm so that the cheese melts, creating a soft interior inside a perfectly baked crust. Topped with pistachio nuts, the combination of cheese and sugar is euphoric . Poland is famous for its meat and poultry dishes, with the most well known being sausages and dumplings called “perogi.” One of our favorite Polish dishes is “golabki,” which is a white cabbage roll filled with minced pork, onion, mushrooms, and rice. You can have golabki stuffed with mutton or chicken or even vegetarian style. Ghana is a place where you can find some of the most unique street food. Try “red red, ” which is a dish made of red beans cooked in a curry sauce with fish or prawns. Spicy and savory, it is the perfect way to fill a hungry belly! One of South Africa’s staples is “chakalaka.” This dish is made with grated carrots, cabbage, baked beans, chillies, garlic, and a hot curry powder. Covered in a gravy that includes chopped onions and tomatoes., you will almost always find chakalaka at barbecues and at many other types of South African meals. There are many more exotic dishes on our list, and we heartily advise you to create your own. For sure you can find many delicious meals from foreign lands not far from home as our world becomes more diverse and international. www.tocaevents.com
A Few Thoughts on Travel
As most of our readers already know, we at TOCA are full-blown travelers. We are so aware of how the farther we get from home, the greater perspective we gain on who we are and how we handle life. Travel helps to shake us up… breaking up assumptions, and finding commonalities in cultures while embracing differences. Travel is a great barometer for discovering where we are challenged and where we feel comfortable. It pushes the envelope. Through travel you can learn a lot about yourself that you otherwise wouldn’t notice if you stayed at home. You might discover that you are confident where you thought you were shy, or the other way around. You might notice how open you really are (or how closed), how willing you are to take a leap of faith, how spontaneous you are in the face of the unexpected, or how reluctant you are to take a step towards the unknown. Travel is one of the best ways to expand and evolve yourself while taking the time to explore new cultures, attitudes, beliefs, and customs. Traveling to parts of the world where what we expect is not the norm is a way to expand our view as we learn not to take things for granted. Poorer countries that do not offer the amenities and comforts we may be accustomed to allow us to see how riches come in other forms, such as generosity and soul, and of course in nature’s beauty. Finding ways to appreciate what “is” rather than being dissapointed in not finding, for example, the local McDonalds or a luxury hotel, helps us gain perspective as it tests where we are rigid and where we are able to flow. We believe that one of the biggest commitments you can make to yourself is to not stay glued to your comfort zone. By taking yourself out of your daily routine every now and then you have the opportunity to re-charge your battery as you place yourself in settings that are out of the norm. At TOCA we recognize that breaking the routine is the best way to keep life sparkling and fresh. And then there is the return home where more often than not, we find more value in what we have. Somehow after travel, things that caused us to worry before we took off for points unknown seem less overwhelming. Travel truly puts life into a fresh context. When you don’t know what is around the next corner, when you push your comfort level by trying new things, when you realize you don’t have to speak the language to communicate, when you find that you have the skills to deal with the unknown, there is an enormous sense of achievement that takes root and stays with you always. It is this value that has helped each one of us become more self-realized, better at who we are and what we do, and always grateful when the time comes to pack our bags and ready the passport! www.tocaevents.com
Introducing TOCA Social
One would think it would be enough to cover destination management, sports hospitality, and corporate events without having to lift a finger to expand our services . But as those of you who are familiar with our passion to produce the exceptional, we are proud to introduce our newest division, TOCA Social. Headed by the charismatic wedding and party event planner, Breen Halley Miller, TOCA Social offers full service planning for weddings, engagement parties, anniversaries, birthdays, bridal showers, charities, and all other social-related events. With a Bachelor of Science degree in Communications from the College of Journalism & Communications at the University of Florida, along with eight years of experience in marketing, planning, and communication, Breen brings an extremely well-rounded background to the plate. Her extensive marketing, planning and communication skills have earned her a reputation for combining the practical with the visionary when it comes to helping a client’s dream event come to perfect fruition. With Breen at the helm, TOCA Social’s team of professionals excel in all areas of logistics, planning, and creative flair. From choosing and meeting with each vendor personally to making sure that every detail is delivered, TOCA Social’s mission is to provide clients with the impeccable services that is the bulwark of our reputation at TOCA Events. Though a new division, TOCA Social is getting busy fast! We are finding that destination and LGBT weddings are some of the most popular social events, with clients excited about engaging our services. The word is definitely out that TOCA Social is right at the forefront, taking the romance of your wedding and marrying it with our ability to make your fantasy come true. And because we know that planning such a life-changing event needs a cool head, we provide you with the following comprehensive services that make it all easy: Initial Consultation Full Service Wedding Planning Wedding Day Coordinator LGBT Weddings Destination Weddings Additional Events — Rehearsal, Bridal Shower, Honeymoon Dress Consultation Floral/Decor Invitations & Calligraphy Photography & Videography Gift Baskets/Favors Travel & Ground Transportation Venue Selection Officient Catering License Coordination/Permitting Post-Wedding Coordination Media Package Knowing some of the prime locations around the world is what has put TOCA Events at the top of the list for destination management. Miami, Rio, and now Cuba are currently the most desirable places to hold an event, and we’re right there in the mix, with offices and liasons in these cities. Being on such familiar terms with these cities is a huge benefit, as we have an insider’s view of where to find all that you need to bring your vision to life… from locale to decor, entertainment, catering, transport, accommodations, and more. For more on producing your social event, contact Breen today at: TOCA Social Breen Halley Miller [email protected] www.tocasocial.com
Fiestón and Our Commitment to Sports Hospitality
We’ve mentioned before that TOCA Events knows how to throw a party. But how about a party for a thousand people or more? Handling an enormous event requires an understanding of sports hospitality that includes the art of bringing sports, entertainment, and the public together in a true spirit of celebration. One of the best examples of how we show our stuff is for the Univision Deportes Fiestón events, and we have produced quite a few. From Phoenix to Dallas, L.A., Houston, and our latest event for theJuly 2015 Dallas SuperCopa MX and Campeon de Campeones , we help to make sports into one big festival that brings excitement to all. With popular anchors like Alejandro Berry, Jorge Calvo, and Aly Villegas, and soccer legends such as former Mexican National Team player Ramón Ramirez who delighted fans at Fiestón Phoenix, and Enrique Borja who came to our latest Dallas event, fans are already excited, even before the games begin. Add to this a giant screen where people can see their favorite teams play’ up close and personal,’ its easy to see how these live events capture a spirit that embodies everything that is great about sports. Entertainment is key for an event like Fiestón. We’ve marveled over mobs of girls sobbing over Mexican pop star Luis Coronel and thousands of fans going crazy over the band, El Dasa. We’ve watched people connect with each other over refreshments in the beer gardens, and we’ve been endlessly enchanted by kids of all ages playing with each other as they bond over common ground. Free admission assures that everyone can enjoy the Fiestón events, which is something that we at TOCA uphold as the perfect way to bring people together. We believe that sports hospitality is based on creating an atmosphere of celebration, excitement, sharing, and pure, unadulterated fun for everyone… and this is the spirit with which we help to build these magnetic events. TOCA Events makes sure that with every sporting event we produce everyone comes away with something special. Whether it is free books for children, a chance to interact with celebrities, play games, or just hang out in the sun, the final goal is to allow guests to spend a great day together and create a perfect memory. Creating a positive atmosphere for families and fans is a way to promote good feelings all the way around, giving everyone the chance to share their experiences with their friends at home. We carry this belief into all of the productions we create at TOCA Events, where every member of our team is dedicated to creating a celebratory event that stands out and leaves people feeling uplifted. With so many more sports events on our plate, we are delighted that we can bring a festive spirit to every production. At TOCA, we believe that infusing people with the spirit of unity and joy is one of the best ways to make the world a better place. For more information on TOCA Events sports hospitality: www.tocaevents.com
Rio’s Period Venues
Some of the most stunning villas in Rio de Janeiro are the period homes that speak of many pivotal moments in the city’s history. Discovering the former farmhouse where the document abolishing slavery was written, as well as other addresses that contribute to Rio’s story, is a way for us at TOCA Events to share our respect for the past and our love of beauty with our clients. At TOCA we believe in incorporating as much of local culture as we can when we produce an event. Our clients come to us because of our knowledge of a given locale, and our mission includes finding some of the most unique and exquisite places where we can either produce the event itself or provide a meaningful site visit. For us an event doesn’t stop when the music is over. We want our clients to walk away with something that they can take home and share. Rio’s breathtaking architecture gives us so much fodder for event production here that we are never at a loss for creating a memorable experience. As lovers of architecture, we are well aware that Rio produced one of the greatest architects in the world: Oscar Niemeyer. The home he designed for his family in 1951 is just as modern today as it was then, and we marvel at the brilliance of the way it so harmoniously conforms to the terrain. It is not easy to build a structure of any kind on a slope, and he did so with an elegance that is inherent in all of his work. Made of glass and cement, the home speaks of his love of nature as it settles seamlessly into its surroundings. Another notable home in Rio de Janeiro is the House of Arts and Culture Serpa Juliet. The house was build in 1920 as a gift from husband to wife. Considered the most beautiful home in Rio at that time, it later became the house of culture, named by its owner to honor his mother, Serpa Juliet. People coming to Rio always remark on the seduction of its beaches, the glitter of its nightlife, and the warmth of its people. Add to this the allure of the city’s period venues, as well as its more contemporary offerings. From upscale Rio Branco to the colorful flavelas, there is a plethora of wonderful architecture to behold. Through this one can easily see how the city knits itself together, with so many varied designs creating a fabric that ignites the senses and keeps us intrigued with every new discovery. In celebration of our home here in Rio, along with our constant urge to share what we love with our clients and friends, we are always learning more about the city’s history. We are fascinated by the importance of each monument that has contributed to the intricate and complex path Rio has taken towards becoming the city it is today, and we are proud to be a part of its pulse. For more information on how we can make your Rio event a part of your own history, contact us today at: www.tocaevents.com
Our Green Connection
As a leader in the event production industry, we at TOCA Events feel very strongly about setting an example when it comes to green consciousness. Our choice is to be on the side of sustainability, setting an ethical example that embraces the preciousness of our environment. Going green has become a common phrase in our industry, starting in the 1990’s when we began to hear more about the shadowy implications of climate change. Many businesses have taken this seriously, while others merely do “lip service” to the concept, or simply ignore the increasing examples of global warming. Even if you disregard the growing evidence that our planet is in trouble, it is hard to accept any argument that does not support sustainability and the development of holistic practices that respect our natural resources. TOCA maintains that a protocol in consideration of the environment is what makes the difference when it comes to offering the best possible service to our clients. As important as location, talent, aesthetic value, and the highest level of professionalism, is a dedication to fair practices, energy conservation, the correct use of natural resources, and overall care for the environment from inception to the completion of every event. Maintaining a green connection is part of our marketing philosophy, as well as our policy and principals. Educating through example, we at TOCA believe that our green attitude affects not only our clients, but the event production industry itself. By choosing vendors who support sustainability, by working with large groups who are imprinted by the impact of how we model our events, we help to build awareness. We live in a world of over-consumption. Marketing and competition keeps consumers consuming, often without thinking about the difference between what is essential vs what is wasteful. At TOCA Events, we believe in giving our clients a sense of magnificence and abundance with every event we produce, and we have mastered the art of doing so without disrespecting the balance necessary to maintain the utmost respect for our natural resources. A green connection no longer means that operational and production costs are higher. Today, it is actually a way to lower expenditures while at the same time providing a competitive advantage over competitors who are not paying attention. We find we are actually saving through the reduction of energy, observing smart waste management practices, and applying an intelligent use of the supply chain. At TOCA we have attracted an extremely high quality team partially because of our green policies, as each member feels good about contributing to a company that enforces conscious environmental practices. In terms of the public sector, our green connection has greatly contributed to our brand image, as clients prefer to be associated with caring practices. Looking to the future, we are excited to implement new innovations that certainly will keep us at the forefront of the event production industry. To learn more about our environmental practices and how to enjoy them at your event, please contact us todaywww.tocaevents.com [:pb] As a leader in the event production industry, we at TOCA Events feel very strongly about setting an example when it comes to green consciousness. Our choice is to be on the side of sustainability, setting an ethical example that embraces the preciousness of our environment. Going green has become a common phrase in our industry, starting in the 1990’s when we began to hear more about the shadowy implications of climate change. Many businesses have taken this seriously, while others merely do “lip service” to the concept, or simply ignore the increasing examples of global warming. Even if you disregard the growing evidence that our planet is in trouble, it is hard to accept any argument that does not support sustainability and the development of holistic practices that respect our natural resources. TOCA maintains that a protocol in consideration of the environment is what makes the difference when it comes to offering the best possible service to our clients. As important as location, talent, aesthetic value, and the highest level of professionalism, is a dedication to fair practices, energy conservation, the correct use of natural resources, and overall care for the environment from inception to the completion of every event. Maintaining a green connection is part of our marketing philosophy, as well as our policy and principals. Educating through example, we at TOCA believe that our green attitude affects not only our clients, but the event production industry itself. By choosing vendors who support sustainability, by working with large groups who are imprinted by the impact of how we model our events, we help to build awareness. We live in a world of over-consumption. Marketing and competition keeps consumers consuming, often without thinking about the difference between what is essential vs what is wasteful. At TOCA Events, we believe in giving our clients a sense of magnificence and abundance with every event we produce, and we have mastered the art of doing so without disrespecting the balance necessary to maintain the utmost respect for our natural resources. A green connection no longer means that operational and production costs are higher. Today, it is actually a way to lower expenditures while at the same time providing a competitive advantage over competitors who are not paying attention. We find we are actually saving through the reduction of energy, observing smart waste management practices, and applying an intelligent use of the supply chain. At TOCA we have attracted an extremely high quality team partially because of our green policies, as each member feels good about contributing to a company that enforces conscious environmental practices. In terms of the public sector, our green connection has greatly contributed to our brand image, as clients prefer to be associated with caring practices. Looking to the future, we are excited to implement new innovations that certainly will keep us at the forefront of the event production industry. To learn more about our environmental practices and how to enjoy them at your event, please contact us todaywww.tocaevents.com [:es] As a leader in the event production industry, we at TOCA Events feel very strongly
The Art and Science of the Party
According to Dr. Joe Goldblatt, founder of the International Special Events Society, event planning is a $50 billion dollar a year industry, and growing. With corporations and private entities outsourcing for all aspects of their special events, we at TOCA are riding the big wave as we strive to perfect the art and science of the Party. As an event planning and destination management company that has been deeply entrenched in the business for a number of years, our list of loyal and new clients is constantly expanding. Our team of professionals is always exploring innovative ways to create parties that are exciting, memorable, unexpected, and on point with what our clients hope to achieve at the so-called end of the day. Planning and designing an event follows a complex road that includes the manifestation of the client’s idea, supervision of the party at all times, and making sure that all elements lead to the desired result. Whether the event is a private celebration, a promotion for a new product, part of a trade show, an educational conference, a commemoration, holiday party, company outing, or otherwise, our goal is for all of the participants to connect with each other through good conversation, networking, and having a great time letting their hair down. There is an enormous amount of pre-planning that goes into making a good party event. Every detail must be examined, from décor to food and beverages, entertainment, the musical playlist, accommodations, and so much more. We believe that the mechanics of creating a seamless event is the science of party-making, while the art is in making the festivities aesthetically pleasing and conducive to personal connection, merry-making, and relaxing. When it comes to corporate events, we know that a successful party is where there is personal interaction. This is what inspires corporate culture, builds brand loyalty, while also inspiring new customers. Corporate parties are designed to help grow business, and at TOCA Events, we create environments that foster personal conversations and a sense of camaraderie that spills over long after the party is over. As a special event and destination management company, TOCA believes in giving people a good reason to come to our parties. We pride ourselves on the ability to merge business with pleasure, where our events and the products or services that are being represented meet all along the way. We know the importance of maintaining a clear objective is the driving force behind every element that makes up a TOCA event. Customizing the party to a tee is a science. Giving guests an experience that is unexpected, exciting, and fun is an art. For more information on how TOCA Events can combine these two elements for your next private or corporate party, contact us today. www.tocaevents.com
The Transformation of Rio’s Favelas
Favelas first appeared in Rio in the 19th century where they were built by soldiers with nowhere to live. Also called “barrios Africanos,” the favelas were home to former slaves with no claim to land or work. Then came the 1970’s when the migration of people from the deep countryside came to Rio to find work, finding themselves encamped in crowded and increasingly dangerous communities without sanitation, running water, or protection. Cities within the city, favelas have long been considered off limits. But with recent movements to “pacify” these areas through social change, many favelas have become more self-sustaining and productive. With running water, electricity, and other services, Rio’s municipal government is also putting in place green initiatives that are changing the face of these inner city areas. With approximately 763 favelas providing homes for over 1.4 million people, they provide a vital picture of a city that is known for diversity and flavor. Santa Marta is one of the best known favelas in Rio de Janeiro. When Spike Lee filmed Michael Jackson’s 1996 video for “They Don’t Care About Us” community pride coupled with this vibrant view of favela life started a positive chain reaction. This included the Favela Painting Art Project, inspired by the Dutch team Haas & Haan, inspiring locals to paint their homes in bright colors. Santa Model serves as a model for other favelas, with its new houses and free tram, along with its famous Michael Jackson statue. With local artisans contributing to this colorful community, Santa Marta is one of the main stops for tourists interested in becoming acquainted with the many facets of Rio de Janeiro. Vidigal is another favela favored by tour groups. With spectacular views over the Atlantic Ocean, the community now offers a beautiful walking trail for taking it all in, as well as guesthouses (pousadas), restaurants, clubs, and bars inside the favela itself. At Toca Events, we enjoy visiting the bohemian Santa Teresa district where artists and young locals provide a tangible excitement that is contagious. At TOCA Events, we are excited to be a part of creating a positive consciousness about these neighborhoods by sharing a new perspective on favela culture. Offering tours to view life in these neighborhoods is one way we help to open up communication and awareness. Recently our Director of Brand Interface, Fabio Pamplona, did a fashion shoot in one of Rio’s favelas, celebrating the spirit of the people. With Rio’s efforts to create a greener city through incentives such as reforestation to lower greenhouse gasses and attract more birds, the city has also created the “Morar Carioca Program” in the South Zone favelas of Bablilonia and Chapeu Mangueria. Encouraging sustainable buildings and other green solutions, these areas are helping to encourage eco-tourism and micro-industries that provide residents and visitors with a higher level of exchange. With holistic urban planning, favela infrastructure is improving, with better zoning and upgrades. Rio expects that by 2020 all of the favelas will benefit, meaning that a whopping 232,000 households will be affected! Visiting Favelas has become a big part of Rio’s tourism, especially since 2013 when the city’s tourism minister expanded plans to help residents develop new skills as a response to outside visitors. Government intervention has helped to expand resources, providing residents with more opportunities to work, live, and raise their families in a environment that supports a better quality of life. As an event production company always keen on providing our clients with creative options, TOCA Events is proud of every aspect of culture in Rio de Janeiro. In this spirit, our destination management team provides exciting tours of the city’s favelas as a compliment to your event. www.tocaevents.com [:pb] Favelas first appeared in Rio in the 19th century where they were built by soldiers with nowhere to live. Also called “barrios Africanos,” the favelas were home to former slaves with no claim to land or work. Then came the 1970’s when the migration of people from the deep countryside came to Rio to find work, finding themselves encamped in crowded and increasingly dangerous communities without sanitation, running water, or protection. Cities within the city, favelas have long been considered off limits. But with recent movements to “pacify” these areas through social change, many favelas have become more self-sustaining and productive. With running water, electricity, and other services, Rio’s municipal government is also putting in place green initiatives that are changing the face of these inner city areas. With approximately 763 favelas providing homes for over 1.4 million people, they provide a vital picture of a city that is known for diversity and flavor. Santa Marta is one of the best known favelas in Rio de Janeiro. When Spike Lee filmed Michael Jackson’s 1996 video for “They Don’t Care About Us” community pride coupled with this vibrant view of favela life started a positive chain reaction. This included the Favela Painting Art Project, inspired by the Dutch team Haas & Haan, inspiring locals to paint their homes in bright colors. Santa Model serves as a model for other favelas, with its new houses and free tram, along with its famous Michael Jackson statue. With local artisans contributing to this colorful community, Santa Marta is one of the main stops for tourists interested in becoming acquainted with the many facets of Rio de Janeiro. Vidigal is another favela favored by tour groups. With spectacular views over the Atlantic Ocean, the community now offers a beautiful walking trail for taking it all in, as well as guesthouses (pousadas), restaurants, clubs, and bars inside the favela itself. At Toca Events, we enjoy visiting the bohemian Santa Teresa district where artists and young locals provide a tangible excitement that is contagious. At TOCA Events, we are excited to be a part of creating a positive consciousness about these neighborhoods by sharing a new perspective on favela culture. Offering tours to view life in these neighborhoods is one way we help to open up communication and awareness. Recently our Director of Brand Interface, Fabio Pamplona, did a fashion shoot in one of Rio’s favelas, celebrating the spirit of the people. With Rio’s efforts to create a greener city through incentives such as reforestation to lower
Our Recipe for Event Planning Success
At TOCA we believe that the driving force behind every successful production comes from our inherent passion for its planning and creation. Having been in the event production business for many years, we are constantly excited by the prospect of a new project, from creating the perfect concept, to planning, building, and finally seeing the idea come to fruition. With the satisfaction of our clients and those who have participated in the event being our ultimate reward, we are always ready for the next challenge. Whether it is sports hospitality, business sessions, corporate or private parties, or anything in between, the elements that go into making each event a success are the same. Here are some of the precepts that we feel are critical for achieving the best possible results for everyone involved: Listening The art of listening is key when it comes to satisfying our clients. We need to know what they are looking for in an event, and most importantly what they hope to achieve as an end result. Sometimes our clients are not able to fully articulate exactly what they are looking for, so it is up to us to listen carefully and fill in the blanks. Listening implies good “people skills,” and at TOCA we pride ourselves on going the extra mile to understand just what our clients want so that we can successfully communicate their vision to all of our vendors who will help us consolidate the perfect outcome. Listening is also essential when it comes to working with our team. For us, every person working at TOCA is a peer, which creates an atmosphere of respect and an openness to new ideas. A good listener usually means that communication is open, and it is in this spirit that we uphold and honor the strengths of each one of our team members. Flexibility As TOCA Events grows, our productions become bigger and bigger, which also means they become more complex. Here is where it is essential to be flexible, with the ability to manage whatever surprises may come our way. This may be a change of vision or last minute changes from our client, a glitch in a schedule or performance, or any other exigency that might come up before, during, or even directly after an event. Flexibility implies resourcefulness, which means that we always have to be ready and able to provide a quick creative fix if the occasion arises. Big productions also mean we have to manage many teams at the same time. Here flexibility provides us with the ability to handle the many responsibilities that large events require, including staying calm when problems arise so that we can think and act quickly to resolve them. A Positive Attitude We know that the feel of a company trickles down from the top. If we as owners are positive, enthusiastic, and calm, our team will be as well. It is up to us to maintain the right mood at all times, regardless of what kind of pressure we may be under during the production process. Because of our experience level in event production, we are very rarely are up against situations that we cannot resolve with grace and ingenuity. And as multi-tasking pros, we love a good challenge, and find that this attitude is contagious amongst our TOCA team as well! Choosing the Right Team Any good manager knows that having the right team means everything. We have an incredible network of trusted pros that we can count on to help make every event into a star production. And of course having the right team means we can delegate without having to worry that the job won’t be done to perfection. Our core team works like a well-oiled machine, which is what makes a TOCA Event so recognizable. www.tocaevents.com