Institut auf dem Rosenberg | Alumni reunion and 135th anniversary

The International Boarding School “Institut auf dem Rosenberg” celebrated its 135th anniversary in the summer of 2024 and organised an unforgettable reunion on the campus in St. Gallen. Over 1000 alumni from all over the world came together to relive the 80s in a colourful, energetic celebration. Live Lab supported the institute in transforming the campus into a dazzling party world full of 80s vibes, to celebrate the past while looking optimistically towards the future.

Back to the future 

The interactive invitation with Max Headroom, the iconic 80s character, set the tone for the event and combined witty nostalgia with state-of-the-art AI technology to create a playful “Choose Your Own Adventure” story that guided guests through the registration process. 

Upon arrival, the guests were greeted by a spray mist and 80s music – a journey back in time through the time tunnel began. Piece by piece, the alumni traveled back through the decades and into the future. With champagne in hand and 80s snacks at their side, they immersed themselves in an eclectic world of neon colors, culinary highlights and nostalgic attractions. 

Neon lights and nostalgia 

Along Electric Avenue, guests were guided through the vibrant area, accompanied by drinks, ice cream trucks, an aerobics trio, roller girls and dancers providing constant entertainment. The entire party world looked like an 80s film set, full of exciting details and little surprises to be discovered and enjoyed wherever they went.   

An oversized boombox, custom-made for the portico of the main building, served as a spectacular stage for the DJ. Placed on the balcony, the boombox was transformed into a stage from which the DJ got the crowd dancing. The impressive backdrop of the giant boombox attracted everyone’s attention and became the center of the party. 

The baby blue ball pool became a selfie hotspot that delighted the guests, while the red viper served as an eye-catcher for spontaneous photos. Both backdrops caught the eye and provided the perfect setting for social media-ready shots. Party guests also had the opportunity to capture special moments in the photo booth and take home lasting memories of the festive evening. 

Guests enjoyed a relaxed atmosphere in the Miami Vice Beach Lounge, where hot dogs, lobster rolls, caviar and cool drinks were served. “Rosenburger” served iconic burgers and milkshakes, while Charly’s Bar offered the perfect late-night entertainment with retro flair, cocktails and arcade games. 

Multimedia highlight above the rooftops 

The highlight of the evening was a customised drone show above the campus. The drones, precisely synchronized with the soundtrack, painted images into the night with their lights. At the same time, a mapping projection on the facade of the building complemented the visual elements of the show. The combination of drone show, projection, light and music offered guests an impressive visual experience and rounded off the celebration. 

80s flair in every detail 

Every detail of the event conveyed the flair of the 80s and emphasised the festive atmosphere as well as the innovative strength and individuality of the Institut auf dem Rosenberg. Bright neon colours, iconic elements and the right soundtrack immersed guests in a world of nostalgia. From reminiscing to raising a glass to an optimistic future, the detailed staging allowed them to move seamlessly from one attraction to the next and enjoy the various facets of the anniversary celebration.