Staging Secrets: Elevating Your Broward County Event Production

Broward County is South Florida's event powerhouse — from corporate conferences at the Fort Lauderdale Convention Center to outdoor festivals in Pompano Beach and waterfront galas in Hollywood. But even the best-planned event falls flat without rock-solid staging. A great stage isn't just a platform; it's the foundation that supports flawless AV, keeps performers safe, and turns "good" into "unforgettable."

At All On Stage Productions, we've built stages for every type of Broward event imaginable. These are our hard-won staging secrets — pro tips that save time, cut costs, and handle South Florida's heat, humidity, and sudden storms like a champ.

Secret 1: Start with a Rock-Solid Site Survey

Never skip the walkthrough. Broward venues vary wildly — think uneven park grass in Deerfield Beach versus polished floors in a Davie hotel ballroom.

Measure everything: ground slope, wind exposure, power access, and load-in paths. Check for overhead obstructions like trees or power lines that could block truss or lighting. In humid Broward, test for soft soil after rain — it can sink stage legs and cause wobbles.

Pro move: Bring a laser level and anemometer. Mark rigging points early to avoid last-minute surprises.

Secret 2: Choose Modular Staging for Broward Flexibility

One-size-fits-all stages fail here. Go modular with adjustable heights (12–72 inches typical) and weatherproof decks.

For outdoor parks like Tradewinds: Use ground-support systems with wide bases to distribute weight on sand or grass. Add stage skirts to hide cables and legs for a clean look. Indoor corporate events in Sunrise: Stack risers for multi-level presentations and easy ADA ramp integration.

Broward bonus: Modular lets you reconfigure mid-event — perfect for hybrid conferences switching from panels to breakouts.

Secret 3: Wind-Proof Your Rigging (Broward Code Requires It)

South Florida winds hit 150 mph in design specs. Always use certified rigging rated for that — no shortcuts.

Anchor outdoor stages with water barrels, sandbags, or stakes (check park rules). Use guy wires on tall truss towers. For beachside Hollywood events, add wind walls or mesh scrims to reduce sail effect without blocking views.

Safety first: Have a licensed rigger sign off. One gust can turn a stage into a hazard.

Secret 4: Integrate AV from Day One

Staging and tech must talk. Plan cable runs under decks with built-in troughs to avoid trip hazards. Position speaker clusters off-stage legs for even coverage without blocking sightlines.

In Broward’s bright sun, elevate LED walls on stage extensions for better angles. Sync lighting trusses with stage height — too low and it blinds the front row; too high and you lose punch.

Quick win: Use quick-lock staging with pre-drilled ports for mics, power, and DMX cables.

Secret 5: Beat the Heat and Humidity

Broward summers are brutal on gear and people. Choose aluminum or steel frames with powder-coat finishes to resist rust. Ventilate under-stage areas to prevent moisture buildup.

For performers: Add non-slip surfaces and cooling fans. Techs love front-service access panels — no crawling in 95°F heat. Outdoor tip: Schedule load-in for early morning; afternoon thunderstorms love to crash the party.

Secret 6: Accessibility and Safety Built In

Broward follows strict ADA rules. Include ramps with 1:12 slope, handrails, and wide steps. Mark edges with glow tape for low-light safety.

Fire code: Keep exits clear and have extinguishers handy. Weight limits: Know your deck rating (usually 150–200 psf) and overload nothing.

Secret 7: Budget Hacks That Don't Skimp on Quality

Rent modular over custom builds — reuse for multiple events. Buy versatile pieces like 4x8 decks that configure endless ways.

Broward local: Partner with certified vendors for union-free labor savings in non-union venues. Plan for rain covers and backups — they're cheap insurance.

Typical Broward staging costs: Small corporate (20x16 ft): $2,500–$5,000. Medium festival (40x32 ft): $8,000–$15,000. Includes delivery, setup, and strike.

Secret 8: Quick Load-In/Load-Out Tricks

Time is money in Broward traffic. Use rolling risers and fold-flat decks. Label every piece for fast assembly.

Pre-build off-site when possible. Have a dedicated crew for strike — events often chain back-to-back.

Final Checklist for Broward Staging Success

Site survey complete with measurements and photos.

Modular system matched to venue and crowd size.

Rigging wind-rated and inspected.

AV integration planned with cable management.

Heat/humidity protections in place.

ADA ramps and safety markings ready.

Budget includes backups and labor.

Load-in schedule avoids peak traffic and weather.

Master these secrets and your Broward event stage will handle anything South Florida throws at it — while looking pro and keeping everyone safe.

Ready to elevate your next Broward production? Email sales@allonstage.com or call 561-750-4070 for a free staging consultation.