A launch on two levels

An observation wheel changes the shape of a launch. At the Singapore Flyer, guests can be on the ground at the base or slowly turning above the bay in a private capsule, and the strongest plans use both. The trick is making two audiences in two places sense that they were at the same event.

Give each level a job

The ground level carries the main programme: arrival, drinks, the reveal on stage, demos and conversation, with the wheel standing behind it as a backdrop. The capsules carry the exclusive moments: a preview for senior partners, a toast with investors, or an interview with the designer for invited media.

Script the capsule like a short show

A capsule finishes its turn in a fixed time, so whatever happens inside has to fit that window exactly.

• Give it a beginning, a middle and an end, with the key line landing near the top of the turn.
• Put a briefed host in each capsule so every group hears the same story.
• Plan the boarding order so groups are not queuing at the base while the reveal is happening.
• Ask the venue what food, drink and branding are allowed inside capsules.

Keep the ground busy

While capsule groups are up, guests below need something to watch: a demo round, a live video link from a capsule or a short performance. When a group returns, mark it with a welcome back from the host so the two levels join up again.

For more on running both levels together, this planning page on splitting a Singapore Flyer launch between capsules and the base sets out the format step by step.

Decide who goes up

Media usually value the capsule for content. Top customers value the exclusivity. Your own team may prefer to stay on the ground for the reveal. Match the experience to each audience early, and tell guests in advance which level they are on so nobody is left waiting by the boarding gate.

Check before you commit

The wheel keeps turning for other visitors, so your plan has to fit around public use. Confirm which function spaces can be combined, how private capsule bookings work and what the set-up and rehearsal windows are. Check current details with the venue before briefing suppliers.