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45 Million Swarovski Crystals Dazzle Audiences at Academy Awards
The 90th anniversary of the iconic Academy Awards, which took place on Sunday, was given an extra layer of lavishness this year, thanks to a stage design featuring 45 million Swarovski crystals.
Created by world renowned designer Derek McLane, the archway in front of the curtain was augmented with the 45 crystals to create a truly stunning backdrop.
Featuring mirrored arches, crystal chandeliers and other details, the design was inspired by light and reflection and draws elements of Hollywood Regency and even Egyptian Deco.
A major feature of the stage was also a giant LED screen displaying digital projections inspired by McLane’s sketches and designs for the stage.
The TV audience was able to admire projections with a three-dimensional quality and a more realistic look.
Derek McLane is no newcomer to stage décor at all and has previously won a Tony and an Emmy award for his work. This year he designed the Oscars stage for the sixth year in a row.
Swarovski was founded in Austria in 1895. In 2017 the company announced an on-going collaboration with German fashion brand Karl Lagerfeld, with two collections promised each year.