ABC7 Chicago Unveils its New State Street Studio
On April 10, 2006, ABC 7 Chicago unveiled its state-of-the-art State Street Studio. The glass-walled, street-level studio is literally a window into the world of television, allowing onlookers a front-row view of ABC 7 Chicago’s popular newscasts. Chicago Scenic extended its broadcast portfolio by building the dynamic, dramatic news set.
The station’s goals were flexibility, maximum space utilization and extreme attention to detail. Chicago Scenic partnered with key members of the ABC 7 team to create the high-tech set, designed by Tim Saunders of Broadcast Design International. The news set incorporates:

• a performance area with three different configuration options
• a custom Anchor Desk with a removable platform to accommodate three or four anchors, depending on the segment
• a moveable Update Desk with plasma stand that offers a live State Street view in the background
• three-sided light boxes that swivel to display different graphics
• large columns with programmable internal LED lighting

ABC 7 invited all Chicagoans to celebrate this important event in the station’s history. The reveal and dedication featured a ribbon-cutting ceremony with ABC 7 Chicago President and General Manager, Emily Barr and Mayor Richard M. Daley. Robin Roberts, from ABC’s Good Morning America, debuted the set to a national audience during her news cut-ins from Chicago. The grand opening festivities also included appearances by Blue Man Group, the Proviso East marching band and the Jesse White Tumblers, among others.

Chicago Scenic Studios Makes a “New Year’s Revolution”
World Wrestling Entertainment wanted an engaging, eye-catching focal point for their WWE championship match that aired on Pay-Per-View January 8, 2006. They turned to Chicago Scenic to custom build a striking 40’ long x 12’ high sign which included a 25’ tall x 23’ wide fire-breathing dragon made from 1/8” aluminum. The “New Years Revolution” slogan was composed of precision cut letters from Chicago Scenic's CNC machine.

Having worked with WWE on two previous made-for-TV projects, Chicago Scenic quickly crafted this impressive scenic display, allowing for easy on-site assembly.

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