ABOUT US

Welcome to Moats Entertainment and Consulting, LLC

“transforming innovative ventures through entertainment expertise & strategic consulting.”

 

Our Mission

Our mission is to transform visions into reality by offering exceptional entertainment solutions and insightful consulting services that empower our clients to achieve their goals. We believe in the power of storytelling and strategic thinking to create memorable experiences and drive sustainable growth. Through our comprehensive approach, we ensure that each experience is not only seen and heard but also deeply felt and remembered.

Who We Are

Moats Entertainment and Consulting, LLC was founded by an industry expert with a passion for entertainment and a knack for strategic innovation. Through a diverse background in live events, corporate functions, entertainment, event management, and business consulting, this fusion of expertise enables Moats Entertainment to provide a comprehensive suite of services tailored to meet the unique needs of our clients.

Our Approach

Moats Entertainment approaches every project with a steadfast commitment to excellence and an unwavering attention to detail. Our collaborative process begins by immersing ourselves in our clients' vision and objectives, understanding their aspirations, challenges, and unique requirements. Through open communication and active engagement, we forge a strong partnership with our clients, ensuring that their voices are heard every step of the way. Drawing on our diverse expertise and creative ingenuity, we craft customized solutions that not only meet but surpass expectations. Whether it's conceptualizing groundbreaking entertainment experiences, optimizing event logistics, or refining strategic business initiatives, we leave no stone unturned in our pursuit of excellence. Our dedication to delivering exceptional results shines through in every aspect of our work, reflecting our unwavering commitment to our clients' success.

Why Choose Us?

Choosing Moats Entertainment means partnering with a team that is dedicated, innovative, and results-driven. We pride ourselves on our ability to navigate the complexities of the entertainment industry while maintaining a strong focus on strategic growth and client satisfaction. At Moats Entertainment, we don't just create; we elevate. Join us on a journey where imagination meets strategy, and together, we can build a moat around your success. Get in touch with us today to learn more about how Moats Entertainment can help you achieve your vision. Call: +1 (708) 232-8522 or Email: ricky@moatsentertainment.com

Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (EDIA)

Central to our mission is the belief in the power of storytelling and strategic thinking to create memorable experiences and drive sustainable growth. Through our comprehensive approach, we ensure that each experience is not only seen and heard but also deeply felt and remembered. We are committed to preserving the integrity of every story we help tell, ensuring that each narrative is presented authentically and with respect. We listen to understand, valuing the unique perspectives and experiences of our clients, collaborators, and audiences. By doing so, we create a space where all voices are heard and respected, fostering a culture of inclusivity and mutual respect. Our team is dedicated to creating an environment where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute to their fullest potential.

We believe that true equity and inclusion require ongoing efforts and reflections. We are committed to continuous learning and improvement, ensuring that our practices not only meet but exceed industry standards. In every project we undertake, from entertainment solutions to consulting services, we strive to make a positive impact. Our goal is to craft experiences that resonate deeply, drive sustainable growth, and leave a lasting legacy. Through our dedication to equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility, we are shaping a future where every story has the power to transform and inspire.

Land Acknowledgement

Moats Entertainment and Consulting, LLC operates on land that has long been a center for Native peoples. This area is the traditional homeland of the Anishinaabe, known as the Council of the Three Fires: the Ojibwe, Odawa, and Potawatomi Nations. It is also the traditional homeland of many other Nations, including the Myaamia, Ho-Chunk, Menominee, Sac and Fox, Peoria, Kaskaskia, Wea, Kickapoo, and Mascouten. We specifically acknowledge the contributions of Kitihawa of the Potawatomi in fostering the community that has become Chicago. We honor all Native peoples who came before us and who continue to contribute to the city. Moats Entertainment is committed to promoting and preserving Native cultural heritage.

Meet the Founder


  • Owner and Founder

    Ricky A. Moats -- is the former Production Manager at Radius, an Auris Presents venue, as well as the Harris Theater for Music and Dance, both in Chicago, IL. At both locations, he oversaw production logistics for a variety of local, domestic, and international organizations that present an array of original and acclaimed music and dance performances, as well as corporate meetings, conferences, TED talks, graduations, and special events. His responsibilities included managing budgets of different sizes, organizing proper labor needs, understanding all technical logistics, venue management, and maintaining vendor relationships, all of which contribute to creating a unique experience for the Chicago community. Ricky coordinates activities not only backstage but also in the lobbies and rooftop spaces where numerous special events take place. To ensure smooth operations, he collaborates closely with departments such as marketing, community engagement and enrichment, operations, security, and development.

    Prior to the move to Chicago, Ricky was the former the Assistant Production Manager at the Emerson Colonial Theatre, an ATG Entertainment venue. There, he actively engaged the logistical planning for everything technical, budgetary, scheduling, and other production related details for multiple touring companies, ranging from Broadway musical tours, concerts, and multiple one-of-a-kind productions, including a Pre-Broadway production of a Neil Diamond musical, “A Beautiful Noise” for audiences of up to 1,700+ per show. Alongside working with ATG, he collaborated with TEDxCambridge as their Production Director for their salon production series in Boston most recently at the WBUR CitySpace. As COVID19 happened, it devastated all live events, thus the team worked hard to create interactive experiences through film and post-production editing. After planning intensely with multiple companies to film in a state-of-the-art studio, along with launching an entire new website platform and 4k live-streaming services on multiple devices.

    In 2018, Ricky was the Head of Technical Stage Staff for Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. on the Allure of the Seas. Each week overseeing staff for twenty-five to thirty production shows weekly with each show having an average audience size of 1,500. These shows ranged from headliner productions, which include artists such as Earl Turner, Lou Gazzara, and Jeff Tracta; musicals such as The Smash Hit Broadway Musical Mamma Mia, and other Royal created productions like the aqua dive show Oceanaria in the outdoor aqua theatre and Ice Games in the fully equipped ice rink blackbox theatre. Prior to working internationally, in 2016, Ricky was the Production and Company Manager for West Virginia Public Theatre, where he oversaw budgeting, scheduling, hiring, safety management, contracting, multiple union policies and procedures, as well as housing and travel needs for the company exceeding over 70+ members.

    Ricky has an educational background that includes a B.F.A. in theatre design and technology with a focus on theatre and production management, as well as a minor in dance from West Virginia University. Additionally, he pursued further education at Boston University, where he obtained an M.F.A. in Production Management and an M.S. in Arts Administration. Ricky also has acquired several certificates from OSHA related to health and safety in the general industry and evacuation planning and has obtained a certificate in contract law from Harvard University.

    Ricky is also a proud member of the Board of Directors of Chicago Dance CRASH where he actively forges cohesive partnerships with the executive director, artistic director, and fellow board members and committees to propel the organization forward through strategic fundraising initiatives, meticulous event planning, and impactful community engagement and outreach efforts. In addition to his dedication to CRASH, Ricky is a member of the Creative & Independent Producer Alliance (CIPA), Young Nonprofit Arts Professionals of Chicago (YNAP), and the Association of Performing Arts Professionals (APAP).