For most of us, attending a major spectator event means showing up and plopping down in our seats – blissfully unaware of everything that goes into preparing the venue.
Handling “everything that goes into it” is exactly what SGA Production Services does. SGA plans, designs and provides temporary stages, platforms, risers and seating for high-end events.
That includes such projects as providing risers for a Formula One race; stadium seating for a basketball game played on the deck of an aircraft carrier; custom scenic work for theme park exhibits; and, of course, a Super Bowl here or there. Even the Olympics and the Invictus Games are among the many credits on SGA’s resumé.
It’s not just about hauling in some bleachers. Successfully seating, showcasing and presenting to an audience is a science at SGA. Everything is meticulously planned and designed to ensure effective sight lines and create that high-end visual appeal.
“It’s show business,” says Tom Hilton, SGA president. “When the curtain goes up, we have to be there.”
SGA has offices in Orlando, Las Vegas, Dallas and Atlanta – but its corporate headquarters is right here in Delhi Township. Founded in Lansing 35 years ago as Sounds Good Audio, SGA began as a full-service production studio that worked primarily with the automotive industry on major events. And Tom, president for the past 10 years, has been there from the beginning, when he was a designer and “IT guy.”
“I’m the longest employee,” he says, adding quickly, “but it’s so not about me.”
SGA now has 150 employees nationwide. And, after many years of creating successful high-profile events, SGA enjoys a great reputation in its field.
“In the end, it’s word of mouth among people who know,” Tom says.
SGA Production Services is at 3120 Spanish Oak Drive, Lansing, 323.0000, sga.net.