Atlas Nextwave

Atlas Nextwave is fundamentally a gala evening, but one with a distinct character. This year we added the element of a masked ball toe, combined with local influences from Riga.

The evening began with a stylish reception, where guests arrived masked and immediately became part of the experience. They then took their seats for a served three-course dinner, into which the award presentations were seamlessly woven.

The foundation of the event remained the previously developed STAR SHOW concept: guests are the stars, and everything revolves around their moment. From nominations to winners, every part of the evening was about recognition and experience. Meanwhile, guests enjoyed top local talent from various disciplines, from classical ballet to Eurovision’s Latvian entry.

After dinner, the setting transformed into a festive club environment and the evening erupted into an energetic final party that continued into the wee hours of the morning.

The biggest challenge was in the international nature of the project. The level we provide in the Netherlands had to be achieved in Riga as well. That requires a different way of working.

Whereas in the Netherlands we can build on an extensive network, here we were dependent on the local market. Fewer suppliers, a different offer and less flexibility required thinking ahead and working out scenarios. What if something is not available? What is the alternative?

The key was in finding the right local partner. Someone who understands us, can translate our standard and together with us can bring the concept to life. In addition, we chose to bring specific elements from the Netherlands to ensure quality.

Our added value lay in connecting three worlds: the client’s desire, the creative concept and the local execution.

We further developed the concept from the existing Star Show base and translated it to an international setting. At the same time, we made sure that local elements, such as the venue and performers, enriched the event and made it authentic.

We also took full control in finding and managing partners, translating the concept into concrete execution and monitoring quality. Continuously thinking through the ultimate guest experience was central to this.

Cooperation with Atlas Nextwave was once again strong and familiar. Through the joint process of the previous year, there was already a solid foundation, both substantively and relationally.

The trust built then gave us the space to deliver internationally as well. At the same time, working in another city brought an extra dimension: working together more intensively, being on location together and really working as a team toward one moment.

That made the cooperation not only effective, but also extremely pleasant. The fact that the application for 2026 has already arrived says everything about how this process was experienced.

The result was an awards evening that was right down to the last detail. The 150 guests in attendance, who already felt special because of their invitation, received an experience that exceeded their expectations.

The atmosphere, the construction of the evening, the combination of recognition and entertainment: everything fell together. Nominees felt seen, winners got the stage they deserved, and Atlas was able to end the year on an impressive note.

The reactions were unanimously positive. For both Atlas and ourselves, this was proof that a strong concept is not only scalable, but can also excel internationally.