Christopher Duncan Speaks

Room Setup

Those of you who are experienced in setting up meetings and events are familiar with how to optimize your room setup for speakers. If you have some flexibility in your setup, it's useful to know that Christopher moves around quite a bit and consequently prefers a wireless lavaliere ("tie clip") microphone and no podium. For Power Point presentations, he brings a wireless remote for his laptop with a range of 50 feet.

If you don't manage events on a regular basis and have questions regarding the setup of your room, we've listed some of the most common observations and suggestions below. No matter the needs of your particular venue, please feel free to contact us and we'll be happy to assist you.

No matter what your logistical situation, Christopher is a consummate professional and will make it work.

Room Setup Suggestions

• If this is a meeting room rather than a theater or auditorium, and you're using a stage or other elevated platform, try to position the first row of seats close enough to the stage for eye contact (six feet is a good rule of thumb).
• Christopher's preference is to work without a podium so that he can better engage the audience. However, if a podium is required for your situation, try to set it back a few feet from the front of the stage so that he can walk in front of it.
• People remember more, respond more and laugh more in brighter conditions. If a projector is used, dim the screen area (you can always unscrew a few ceiling bulbs), but leave full room lights on during the program.
• Christopher moves around quite a bit during his speech. If the room has any spotlights, aim them for a general wash of the front and center stage. Of course, if you have follow spot operators, they'll naturally track Christopher as he moves.
• A dark backdrop covering the wall behind the stage is often useful to eliminate clutter or distractions.
• For Power Point presentations, Christopher brings his own laptop and wireless remote control. You'll need a draped table within 50 feet for him to place the laptop. If you prefer for the computer to be off stage, then you'll need to make sure that he can either see the main projection screen or provide an additional monitor somewhere off stage (sometimes known as a "repeat monitor") so that he can verify the progression of the slide show.
• Wherever the laptop is located, it will need to have access to a power outlet. Although laptops can run on batteries, it's never wise to tempt the fates in a live presentation.

What people are saying...

"Duncan has the ability to explain ideas and concepts in plain English. He is a master teacher who takes time to make sure his students understand."

Albert Grande
PizzaTherapy.com