DDS Statewide Training Cold Open

Overview

At a large-scale conference, how do you get people to stop socializing and lock into the program? One Set Studio was tasked with solving this universal event challenge through a unique cold open video for more than 800 Developmental Disabilities Services conference attendees. Our goal was to produce a gripping and emotionally authentic opener, which we delivered on through this award-winning video.

Challenge

To capture audience interest, we harnessed the power of spoken word poetry — only from the perspective of someone with a developmental disability. But first, we had to cast the right person. A charismatic local barista, Danielle Robinson delivered big energy for the production. Born with Down syndrome and having survived leukemia, Danielle never lets circumstances stop her from living her best life.

Strategy & Approach

With a tight turnaround, the quickest and best solution was to create an immersive virtual production environment inside One Set Studio. This allowed shot versatility and ease of filming in a controlled environment. It also helped Danielle feel at ease, so she could boldly proclaim the video’s empowering message.

Outcomes

By doing all visuals directly in camera, we were able to speed up postproduction tenfold. Still, the biggest win wasn’t the tech, but rather the team’s ability to creatively orchestrate solutions and talent. Not only did the award-winning video grab audience attention, but people were even standing on their feet cheering. In her first paid acting gig, Danielle launched her on-camera talent career while powerfully driving home the DDS conference theme.

“The studio was amazing, and the staff made the whole experience fun and memorable for me. Filming this video gave me the chance to share my voice, my journey, and what matters most to me.”
Danielle Robinson, Video Talent