09.15.24 RITZ Gala at the San Diego Zoo

We were thrilled to contribute to the San Diego Zoo’s annual Rendezvous In The Zoo (RITZ) fundraiser, Funk in the Trunk, on June 15, 2024. This event, dedicated to supporting the transformative Denny Sanford Elephant Valley project, offered a groovy evening filled with excitement, and we were proud to be part of such an impactful cause.

As part of the Show Imaging team, UVLD had the honor of serving as the lighting designer for this unforgettable night. Working alongside executive producer Ashley Martin and account executive Luke Gully, Greg Cohen led our lighting design efforts, while Jack Bender provided invaluable support as the production electrician. Together, we brought the evening’s vibrant theme to life—illuminating both the venue and the cause it represented.

The Funk in the Trunk event wasn’t just about fun and entertainment, but also about supporting a monumental cause. The funds raised from the night will go towards the reimagined Denny Sanford Elephant Valley at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, a state-of-the-art habitat that will support the conservation of African elephants and change the future for endangered species. From the dazzling decor to the immersive experiences, every detail contributed to making the evening a resounding success for wildlife conservation.

Beyond the incredible lighting work, a highlight for our team was sneaking in some after-hours time to visit the zoo’s animals. Being surrounded by the wonders of wildlife, while working to support their future, made the evening feel truly magical.

We extend our gratitude to Show Imaging for inviting us to join their team on this meaningful project. They pulled out all the stops with stunning decor, sound, media, and video, ensuring that Funk in the Trunk was a night to remember.

Here’s to making a difference—one dazzling event at a time!