Players tossing poker chips? Here is the Golden Knights revamped game production – The Athletic

As fans file into T-Mobile Arena for the Golden Knights home opener on Thursday, theyll notice a more dramatic, theatrical feel to the building. The ice sheet will glow brighter than ever before, while lights in the stands will be dimmed to a level just bright enough for fans to find their seats.

With the new lighting settings inside the arena, the entertainment team hopes to create the feel of a frozen Roman Colosseum.

Its a cathedral, an altar created for that battle, newly-named vice president of entertainment Mark Shunock explained. We want that same sensation when you walk into T-Mobile. I think that will help our fans feel more engaged. It will feel more intimidating. Youll feel like youre walking into something special. Its amazing what lighting does.

The change fans may enjoy most wont happen until after the game ends. The five-year tradition of the three stars of the game handing sticks to the fans will now be replaced by players tossing oversized poker chips over the glass. The poker chips will be soft, like pillows, and will be autographed by the players just before heaving them into the crowd.

Every team does sticks, and the disadvantage of sticks is the person who can reach the stick gets the stick, but with a pillow people higher up (have a chance to catch one), vice president and executive producer Andrew Abrams said.

The Golden Knights set an incredibly high bar for game presentation from the moment they entered the league in 2017. From their extravagant pregame festivities with on-ice sword fights, to the light-up drumline and seat-rattling nightclub music, Vegas leads the NHL in entertainment.

View post:

Players tossing poker chips? Here is the Golden Knights revamped game production - The Athletic