Key takeaways
- Seamless Integration: Implementation of Spektrix ticketing system integration, ensuring continuous ticket sales during transition
- Efficient Migration: Swift 'lift and shift' approach preserved existing design while upgrading functionality
- Streamlined Operations: New digital signage system centralised communications and reduced manual processes
- Future-Proof Platform: Flexible CMS providing the foundation for future digital growth and innovation without locking Queens’ into a single ticketing system
Located in the historic Theaterama—one of three structures from the 1964 World's Fair—Queens Theatre has been a cornerstone of New York's cultural landscape since 1989. As the premier performing arts venue in Queens, it presents world-class theatre, dance, music, and comedy to America's most ethnically diverse county.
What challenges were Queens Theatre facing?
While Queens Theatre's artistic programming continued to innovate and inspire, their digital infrastructure was creating significant operational challenges:
- Outdated Content Management System (CMS): The existing CMS was restrictive and time-consuming, draining valuable staff resources.
- Ticketing System Integration: Their current provider couldn't support integration with the new Spektrix ticketing system, risking disruption to sales.
- User Experience Concerns: There was a potential loss of purchase path styling and ticketing system connection, which could negatively impact the customer journey.
- Inefficient Communication Systems: The theatre lacked a centralised digital signage solution, leading to manual processes and inconsistent messaging.
- Limited Scalability: The existing infrastructure couldn't support the theatre's growth ambitions and future digital needs.
With these challenges threatening to impact their ability to serve Queens' diverse community effectively, Queens Theatre needed a technology partner who could provide a seamless transition while enhancing their digital capabilities.
How did we tackle these issues?
Queens Theatre's primary concern was maintaining uninterrupted service for their patrons while upgrading their digital infrastructure. Recognising this, we prioritised continuity and familiarity for both staff and visitors. This approach focused on carefully transferring the theatre's existing design and functionality into the Peppered framework, ensuring that the transition would be seamless from the user's perspective. Key components of this strategy included:
CMS Migration
- Efficiently migrated existing content to Peppered CMS
- Preserved the theatre's established brand identity
- Enhanced backend functionality for easier website management and enriched content production
Spektrix Integration
- Implemented full Spektrix ticketing system integration
- Ensured seamless ticketing operations during and after transition
- Maintained purchase path styling for consistent user experience
Digital Signage Overhaul
- Deployed a centralised digital signage system
- Created templates for various types of announcements and promotions
- Implemented scheduling features for automated content updates
Performance Enhancements
- Optimised site speed through caching and image compression
- Implemented Content Delivery Network (CDN) for faster content delivery and faster load times
- Enhanced security measures to protect customer data
The result?
The transition to Peppered hasn't just given Queens Theatre a new website—it's transformed their entire digital operation.
"The transition to Peppered has transformed how we operate,” says Jay Rogers, Director of Operations at Queens. “What used to take our team days now happens in minutes, letting us focus on what really matters—creating exceptional experiences for our diverse Queens community. From Peppered’s centralised digital signage solution to its seamless integration with Spektrix, we now have a digital foundation that can grow with us."
Here's what this means in practice:
Efficient Operations
- Marketing team saves hours weekly through automated event updates
- Digital signage content can be managed from anywhere, anytime
- Website updates that once took days now happen in minutes
- Staff can focus on strategy rather than manual updates
Enhanced Patron Experience
- Seamless ticket purchasing through Spektrix integration
- Real-time seat availability and pricing updates
- Mobile-optimised viewing for the growing smartphone audience
- Consistent branding across all digital touchpoints
Marketing Power
- Flexible content blocks for creative storytelling
- Easy promotion of last-minute ticket deals
- Automated email marketing capabilities
- Dynamic content based on user behaviour
Future-Ready Foundation
- Regular platform updates keep technology current
- Scalable system grows with the theatre's needs
- New features added through community-driven development
- Continuous performance optimisation
Operational Impact
- Reduced technical maintenance costs
- Decreased dependency on external contractors
- Improved staff productivity
- More efficient resource allocation
Queens Theatre now has a digital infrastructure that matches its artistic excellence, supporting its mission to serve Queens' uniquely diverse community with world-class performing arts experiences. But perhaps most importantly, they've gained a technology partner who understands the unique challenges of cultural venues and continues to evolve alongside them.
Transforming your digital setup
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