Dylan Marer, based in the vibrant city of Los Angeles, is a globally acclaimed CEO, executive producer, and pioneer in the art of immersive event design. With a career spanning over 37 years, Marer has revolutionized the live event industry, combining cinematic storytelling and cutting-edge technology to create extraordinary experiences. His portfolio is a testament to innovation and creativity, boasting high-profile collaborations with entertainment legends like James Cameron, Seth MacFarlane, and Jamie Foxx, as well as global brands such as Amazon, Porsche, and Maxim Media.
From opulent celebrity parties at the iconic Playboy Mansion to transformative philanthropic galas like Austin Elevates, One Humanity and Charlize Theron’s Africa Outreach Project, Marer’s work transcends the boundaries of conventional event production. He is the founder and CEO of Cinematic, where he leads a team of creative visionaries dedicated to producing immersive activations and theatrically designed attractions for corporate, entertainment, and nonprofit clients.
Marer’s innovative approach has earned him a starring role in National Geographic documentaries, extensive media coverage, and recognition as a driving force in the evolution of experiential design. Rooted in Los Angeles’ rich culture of entertainment and technology, Dylan Marer continues to push the envelope, setting new standards for what live events can achieve.
What fuels your drive to constantly innovate in the world of event production?
Innovation is the lifeblood of this industry. The moment you stop evolving, you fall behind. For me, it’s not just about creating something visually stunning; it’s about how it makes people feel. I’m driven by the challenge of taking an abstract idea and transforming it into a tangible, immersive experience that leaves a lasting impact. Whether it’s a high-energy product launch or a heartfelt charity gala, I always ask myself: How can we surprise, delight, and inspire? That constant pursuit of something greater keeps me moving forward.
How has your Los Angeles upbringing shaped your career and creative perspective?
Los Angeles is a city of dreamers and doers, a place where art, technology, and storytelling intersect. Growing up here, I was surrounded by the film industry, music, and a vibrant cultural scene—it was impossible not to absorb that energy. LA teaches you to think big and embrace the extraordinary, and that mindset has been pivotal in my career. It’s also a city that demands originality. The competition is fierce, and audiences are sophisticated, so you learn quickly that mediocrity won’t cut it.
What’s your process for designing an immersive event from concept to execution?
It all starts with listening. Every client has a unique story to tell, and my job is to uncover what makes their vision special. Once we’ve established the core narrative, I dive into the creative process with my team. We sketch, storyboard, and map out every detail—soundscapes, lighting, interactive elements, and more. Technology plays a huge role, whether it’s integrating AR/VR activations or using projection mapping to transform a space. But even with all the tech, the heart of the experience is human emotion. That’s the lens through which we design every event.
How do you strike a balance between creating luxury events and producing meaningful philanthropic experiences?
To me, they’re not mutually exclusive. Luxury and purpose can enhance each other. When you infuse a charity event with the same level of creativity and production value as a celebrity gala, it elevates the cause and draws more attention to it. For example, Austin Elevates was as much about art and immersive production design as it was about supporting local nonprofits like SAFE Alliance and Super Hero Kids. The key is authenticity—making sure the event serves the mission while delivering an unforgettable experience.
Can you share a moment in your career that encapsulates your philosophy on event production?
One moment that stands out is the global media launch for James Cameron’s Avatar Blu-ray. The challenge was to create an environment that mirrored the magic of Pandora, and we went all-in with immersive elements that made guests feel like they were stepping into the film. Seeing their reactions—pure awe and wonder—was the ultimate payoff. It reinforced my belief that great events are about transporting people, even if just for a few hours, to a place where they can dream, connect, and be inspired.
With over 1000 events under your belt, what’s the secret to maintaining such a high standard of excellence?
Surround yourself with a team that shares your passion and vision. I’m fortunate to work with some of the most talented creative minds in the industry, and we push each other to excel. Attention to detail is another key. It’s often the small, subtle touches that elevate an event from good to extraordinary. Finally, staying ahead of the curve is critical. I’m always researching new technologies, trends, and artistic movements to ensure we’re delivering fresh, innovative experiences.
Technology is central to your events. How do you see it shaping the future of immersive design?
The possibilities are endless, and we’re just scratching the surface. AI is already starting to play a role in personalizing guest experiences, and I think we’ll see even more integration of real-time analytics and predictive design. AR and VR will continue to evolve, offering deeper levels of interactivity and engagement. But what excites me most is the potential to merge technology with storytelling in ways that feel seamless and organic. The future is about creating not just immersive experiences, but truly transformative ones.
How do you handle the pressure of working with high-profile clients and managing large-scale productions?
Pressure is part of the job, but I thrive on it. When you’re working with clients like Seth MacFarlane or brands like Ferrari, the stakes are high, and expectations are even higher. Preparation is everything. My team and I leave nothing to chance, from meticulous pre-event planning to contingency strategies for the unexpected. Communication is also key. Keeping clients informed and involved throughout the process builds trust and ensures we’re aligned every step of the way.
What role does storytelling play in your event designs?
Storytelling is at the heart of everything we do. It’s what turns an event into an experience. Whether we’re launching a new product or celebrating a milestone, the narrative gives it meaning and context. For instance, when we designed Jamie Foxx’s 25×2 Birthday celebration, it wasn’t just a party—it was a journey through his favorite Miami nightclub, in which we recreated the iconic LED stairs and performance stage, video walls, lighting and effects for the many celebrity guests to perform and to compliment the music, visuals, and interactive elements. A great story engages people on an emotional level, and that’s what makes an event memorable.
What do you find most rewarding about your work?
The most rewarding part is seeing the impact of what we create. It’s not just about the applause or the headlines; it’s about knowing that we’ve touched people’s lives in some way. Whether it’s a guest leaving an event feeling inspired, a charity raising significant funds, or a brand gaining deeper connections with its audience, those moments of impact are what make all the hard work worthwhile.
If you could go back and give your younger self advice at the start of your career, what would it be?
Trust your instincts, but don’t be afraid to take risks. When I started, there were moments of doubt—times when I wondered if I was dreaming too big or pushing too far. But looking back, it’s those bold moves that defined my career. I’d also tell my younger self to value collaboration. No matter how talented you are, it’s the people you work with who help bring your vision to life.
What’s next for Dylan Marer and Cinematic?
We’re exploring new frontiers in immersive design, particularly in the realm of festivals and large-scale activations. Projects like Superverse Dubai and Austin Elevates have laid the groundwork, and we’re looking to expand on those concepts. I’m also interested in how we can use our expertise to create more sustainable, eco-friendly events without compromising on creativity or quality. For me, the journey is always about pushing boundaries and redefining what’s possible.
How do you want your legacy in this industry to be remembered?
I want to be remembered as someone who redefined what events could be—who took them from ordinary gatherings to extraordinary experiences. More importantly, I want my work to stand as a testament to the power of creativity and innovation to bring people together, inspire them, and make a positive impact. If I’ve done that, then I’ve succeeded.
This conversation with Dylan Marer offers a glimpse into the mind of a true innovator, revealing his deep commitment to storytelling, technology, and purpose-driven creativity. From Los Angeles to the world stage, Marer continues to raise the bar for immersive event production, proving that great events are about more than just spectacle—they’re about connection, transformation, and legacy.