Downtown FabWorks Portfolio | Morton Amphitheater Lanterns

project
description

For Morton Amphitheater in Riverside, Missouri, Generator Studio and Live Nation envisioned two 30-foot lanterns as glowing landmarks at the back of the lawn. The permanent features would help guests find quick-service food and beverages while adding a memorable layer of atmosphere to the new 16,000-capacity venue.

description

We began with a full-scale prototype, exploring materials, panel configurations, finishes, and structural approaches with lighting specialists at Bandit Lites. Our Technical Design, CNC, Metalworks, Millwork, Finishing, and Assembly teams each contributed to testing the details that would shape the lanterns’ final glow. To evaluate the effect at a realistic height and distance, we created temporary rigging, lifted the prototype 35 feet into the air in our parking lot, and reviewed it after dark from multiple viewpoints—including a nearby overpass. Once the test confirmed the direction, we fabricated the final lantern systems with custom curved ring-truss framing designed for repeatable shop production and field adjustment. We then coordinated installation of the roughly 5,000-pound lanterns onto the steel superstructure fabricated and installed by Doherty Steel.

Ryan McDonald

Senior Creative Producer, RED VELVET

Downtown FabWorks was a standout partner for our brand activation at Tales of the Cocktail. From the start, their team was collaborative, communicative, and deeply invested in bringing our vision to life with smart tech integration and seamless execution. Their onsite crew was not only skilled, but also incredibly friendly and easy to work with, making install a breeze. The final result was high-quality, on-brand, and a true showstopper.

Jordan Schwartz

Owner, Primetime Innovations

A+ job and A++ team. Every single crew member was extremely helpful, very respectful to all on site, and willing to help wherever and however without any complaints. Amazing group…next project, I am going to request that exact crew! Thank you. You killed it.

Paul Utterback

Business Development, Crystal Clear Imaging

A model company for design and fabrication. If you can dream it, Downtown FabWorks can do it.

Mike Cassesi

Owner, CASSESI Commercial Construction

Dan and his team are true professionals who are in a league of their own. When it comes to creativity, quality, and skill, Downtown FabWorks is a company that we know we can trust. Dan is down-to-earth, responsive, hardworking, and a true pleasure to work with every time.

Scott Beelman

Partner, Katapult Events

In the world of live events—where things often change on a whim—it's great to have a fabrication partner who understands our business and exceeds our expectations every single time.

Irina Gusin

Independent Exhibitions Producer

Dan and his team at Downtown FabWorks were able to fully produce and execute a large-scale structure thoughtfully and in record time when my project's deadline was threatened by Hurricane Ida. I couldn't be more appreciative of Dan's professionalism and hard work during a very stressful and uncertain time. Dan and his team were a joy to work with!

Kristen Kain

Owner, Kristen Kain: Marketing + Events

Downtown FabWorks is a great group to work with on any event project. They are experienced in all things related to scenic fabrication and installation, and they are flexible and accommodating as the needs of the project are developing. Having a reliable scenic partner is crucial to the success of the project—and Downtown FabWorks does not disappoint.

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