DX Gala Uses Tron-Inspired Laser Show, Ice Skater to Honor Blackberry Maker  

The Design Exchange's sixth annual Black and White gala, held Saturday night at the Bay Street venue, based its "Commotion" theme on Research in Motion, the evening's honouree and co-sponsor, and the maker of the Blackberry. The event's nod to technology began with its promotional materials, which included halftone dot-patterned images and carried into the party with elaborate lighting effects.

"We used R.I.M. as our inspiration for the event and tried to make the Trading Floor look like the inside of a machine," said Gillian Hoff, vice president of special events at the Design Exchange, adding she was also inspired by the 1982 film Tron. Hoff called on FFP Laser Systems to create a neon grid on the ceiling of the venue and two laser shows. CCR Solutions created lighting effects like floating bubbles on the walls and a large chandelier constructed from glowing LED versa tubes.