Rich red velvet, dramatic florals and touches of gold transformed the SunBet Arena at Time Square for an unforgettable evening inspired by The Greatest Showman.
STRONG Event Décor brought the theatrical world of The Greatest Showman to life at the 2026 ontbytSAKE Awards, held at the SunBet Arena at Time Square in Pretoria on Thursday, 10th September.
Welcoming close to 1,000 guests, the prestigious event was an extraordinary evening of celebration, recognition and world-class entertainment.
Led by Stephan Nel, the STRONG Event Décor team was responsible for creating the event’s décor and hospitality spaces, developing an opulent visual experience inspired by one of theatre’s most iconic symbols: the rich red velvet curtain.
The team drew on the anticipation, drama and grandeur associated with the moment a theatre curtain opens. This inspiration was translated into sculptural red velvet centrepieces designed to capture the movement and dramatic folds of a stage curtain. Resembling magnificent oversized red roses, the centrepieces transformed every table into its own striking piece of the show.
The plush red elements were paired with splashes of gold and ornamental gold touch lamps, creating a warm and luxurious tablescape that reflected the scale and spectacle of the evening.
Throughout the hospitality areas, guests were welcomed into relaxed yet sophisticated spaces featuring comfortable furnishings and bold, theatrical floral arrangements. These dramatic installations were displayed across bars, cocktail tables and key areas throughout the venue, carrying the theme beyond the main event space and creating a cohesive guest experience.
International star Loren Allred, best known as the voice behind “Never Enough” from The Greatest Showman, delivered one of the evening’s standout performances, adding another layer of drama and spectacle to the occasion.
From the initial concept through to the final installation, STRONG Event Décor approached the project as more than simply styling a venue. Every detail was designed to contribute to the atmosphere, immerse guests in the theme and help create a memorable awards experience.
It was a privilege to contribute to an event of this calibre and to help set the stage for one spectacular night. From intimate celebrations to large-scale corporate events, STRONG Event Décor creates magical spaces, big and small.
To begin creating an unforgettable experience for your next event, contact the STRONG Event Décor team and let them bring your vision to life.