Introduction
Shortly after publishing my post on engagement models to build audience loyalty, I tuned in to Game 2 of the Stanley Cup Finals, with the Boston Bruins visiting the Vancouver Canucks. In my post, I outlined a “fully synchronous” engagement model, in which a webinar presenter provides a brief introduction, then invites the audience to speak.
The National Anthem
At Vancouver Canucks home games, the national anthem is performed by Mark Donnelly. He puts on a rousing performance in front of a highly engaged audience.
In fact, after singing the first verse, he stops singing, raises his microphone to the crowd and turns into a conductor, as the fans sing the next verse. Here’s a video of a recent performance – you can see Donnelly “pass the mic” at the 0:33 (33 seconds) mark.
Conclusion
Canucks fans are passionate about their national anthem – there are numerous videos on YouTube of fans singing the national anthem outside the arena before games. I wonder if the tradition of audience involvement in Vancouver increased fans’ intensity around the national anthem?
In either case – while this was a great example of fully synchronous engagement, we all know that audience loyalty (to the Canucks) has more to do with the product they put on the ice!
Posted by Dennis Shiao 
It's All Virtual 