This project took us back to our early days when we first worked with the Beastie Boys. We had a lot of fun working with the band from 2004-2009 so being part of the team to help launch their new book, The Beastie Boys Book: Live & Direct with Adam Horovitz and Michael Diamond, was an honor.

As the remaining members of the Beastie Boys prepared to release the autobiographical book detailing the history of the iconic hip-hop trio, Adam “Ad-Rock” Horovitz and Michael “Mike D” Diamond embarked on a brief book tour. Each show included excerpt readings, skits, and conversations between Mike D and Ad-Rock and a live score from DJ Mixmaster Mike.

With such an important story to tell and a unique approach to the format of the book tour, an equally special production design was crucial to support the show. The feature readings were complemented by props and two large screens to project images or create a setting. There was also an exhibit which fans could explore before the show featuring a collection of artifacts from the Beastie Boys’ history. Additionally, there was a Sonos room with a turntable and numerous vinyl records from artists that influenced the hip-hop trio.

Throughout both the book and the live show, the presence of the late Adam “MCA” Yauch was felt and celebrated as Mike D and Ad-Rock reflected on the talent and inspiration their bandmate brought not only to their music, but to their lives.