Dallas Stars’ top line stays sharp
Star-Telegram.com
Steve Ott, Mike Ribeiro and Jere Lehtinen have been feeling pretty good together lately, and they were key in the Stars’ victory over Florida before the All-Star break.
They were at it again after the break.
Ott had a goal and an assist, and Lehtinen tallied the game-winner in the Stars’ 2-0 win over the Atlanta Thrashers at American Airlines Center on Tuesday. Marty Turco stopped 24 shots for his second shutout this season.
The Stars continue to stay strong at home, where they haven’t lost in regulation since Dec. 29 (3-1 against San Jose).
The Stars’ top-line wings scored early in the first and second periods, and generated plenty of opportunities against the Thrashers.
Both teams were well-rested, thanks to the All-Star break, but the Stars were definitely the sharper of the two. The Thrashers’ exception was Kari Lehtonen, whose goaltending work kept this game from being a lot worse.
Find Dallas Stars tickets >
Showing posts with label tickets.com client. Show all posts
Showing posts with label tickets.com client. Show all posts
Saturday, January 31, 2009
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Tickets.com Client Spotlight: Texas Rangers
Texas Rangers sweeten ticket deals to attract more fans
By ANTHONY ANDRO
Star-Telegram/Stewart F. House
ARLINGTON — The Texas Rangers are going to offer fans more reasons to come to Rangers Ballpark in Arlington.
Individual ticket prices this year will remain the same in all sections except for the lower infield seats (up from $60 to $65).
But a number of incentives are planned to boost attendance. Postgame fireworks will be featured 13 times, up from five last year. All-you-can-eat seats will be available every home game and include seats in the upper home run porch. Two more concerts are on the calendar. A family pack will offer savings of up to 50 percent.
The Rangers have added four premier games, up to 16 from 12. That was necessitated by the Rangers having an additional home series with Boston and a July 4 game.
Individual game tickets will go on sale at 9 a.m. on March 7.
Senior vice president Jim Sundberg said that season ticket sales are down slightly because of the economy. Last season’s attendance was the lowest ever at the ballpark.
Beefed-up Brandon
Rangers right-hander Brandon McCarthy showed up at the Rangers’ pitching camp looking big and healthy.
The 6-foot-7 McCarthy weighs 220 pounds, up from 195. That’s due in large part to his 7,000-calorie a day diet. More important, McCarthy is healthy after being limited to five starts with the Rangers last year because of forearm and finger injuries.
"It’s sort of starting over again," McCarthy said. "It’s been two years since I’ve done anything of note. It’s time to sort of prove myself again. I look at as a make-or-break year in terms of where I want to be personally."
Wilson signs
The Rangers avoided arbitration with reliever C.J. Wilson by agreeing to terms on a one-year deal. The left-hander signed for $1.85 million and additional performance incentives.
Wilson was 2-2 last year with 24 saves and a 6.02 ERA. His season ended in August when he had surgery to remove bone chips from his elbow.
Washington on Obama
Rangers manager Ron Washington didn’t have a chance to watch Tuesday’s presidential inauguration because of a pitching camp, but he still felt a sense of pride.
"I never thought this day would come," Washington said. "Just like anything else in life, there are changes. This is one change I think will help a lot of young kids in life understand they can be anything they want to be."
Saltalamacchia ready
Jarrod Saltalamacchia lost the starting catching job in spring training last year to Gerald Laird, who was traded to the Detroit Tigers in December. Saltalamacchia heads to camp this year competing with Taylor Teagarden for time.
"I’m ready to take the job and that’s what I’ve got to do," he said. "I’m here to play ball. Last year my mind-set was a little different. Going into spring training, I don’t want to say I was lackadaisical, but I had different things going through my head. I learned a lot last year and I’m going to go in there and play the game the way it’s supposed to be played."
By ANTHONY ANDRO
Star-Telegram/Stewart F. House
ARLINGTON — The Texas Rangers are going to offer fans more reasons to come to Rangers Ballpark in Arlington.
Individual ticket prices this year will remain the same in all sections except for the lower infield seats (up from $60 to $65).
But a number of incentives are planned to boost attendance. Postgame fireworks will be featured 13 times, up from five last year. All-you-can-eat seats will be available every home game and include seats in the upper home run porch. Two more concerts are on the calendar. A family pack will offer savings of up to 50 percent.
The Rangers have added four premier games, up to 16 from 12. That was necessitated by the Rangers having an additional home series with Boston and a July 4 game.
Individual game tickets will go on sale at 9 a.m. on March 7.
Senior vice president Jim Sundberg said that season ticket sales are down slightly because of the economy. Last season’s attendance was the lowest ever at the ballpark.
Beefed-up Brandon
Rangers right-hander Brandon McCarthy showed up at the Rangers’ pitching camp looking big and healthy.
The 6-foot-7 McCarthy weighs 220 pounds, up from 195. That’s due in large part to his 7,000-calorie a day diet. More important, McCarthy is healthy after being limited to five starts with the Rangers last year because of forearm and finger injuries.
"It’s sort of starting over again," McCarthy said. "It’s been two years since I’ve done anything of note. It’s time to sort of prove myself again. I look at as a make-or-break year in terms of where I want to be personally."
Wilson signs
The Rangers avoided arbitration with reliever C.J. Wilson by agreeing to terms on a one-year deal. The left-hander signed for $1.85 million and additional performance incentives.
Wilson was 2-2 last year with 24 saves and a 6.02 ERA. His season ended in August when he had surgery to remove bone chips from his elbow.
Washington on Obama
Rangers manager Ron Washington didn’t have a chance to watch Tuesday’s presidential inauguration because of a pitching camp, but he still felt a sense of pride.
"I never thought this day would come," Washington said. "Just like anything else in life, there are changes. This is one change I think will help a lot of young kids in life understand they can be anything they want to be."
Saltalamacchia ready
Jarrod Saltalamacchia lost the starting catching job in spring training last year to Gerald Laird, who was traded to the Detroit Tigers in December. Saltalamacchia heads to camp this year competing with Taylor Teagarden for time.
"I’m ready to take the job and that’s what I’ve got to do," he said. "I’m here to play ball. Last year my mind-set was a little different. Going into spring training, I don’t want to say I was lackadaisical, but I had different things going through my head. I learned a lot last year and I’m going to go in there and play the game the way it’s supposed to be played."
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Tickets.com to Provide Advanced Ticketing Solutions for Acclaimed Seattle Theatre Group
COSTA MESA, CA – January 12, 2009 – Tickets.com, a leading worldwide provider of integrated ticketing solutions, has signed the prestigious Seattle Theatre Group as a new client. Seattle Theatre Group is a non-profit performing arts organization that operates two historic venues, the Paramount Theatre and Moore Theatre. Under the freshly inked long term agreement, the Seattle-based group will utilize ProVenue®, the newest and most advanced ticketing system from Tickets.com, for its ticketing operations at both locations.
“Seattle Theatre Group is a respected organization that maintains its commitment to preserving both of its theatres with extraordinary programming as well as outstanding community and educational outreach,” said Larry Witherspoon, chief executive officer, Tickets.com. “We’re honored to have the opportunity to provide them with leading-edge ticketing solutions, so that patrons of these legendary venues can have the best possible experience, from point of purchase through curtain call.”
Built with funds from pioneering Hollywood film studio Paramount Pictures and opened as the Seattle Theatre in 1928, the 2,807-seat Paramount adopted its new name in 1930, operating as a golden-era movie palace and home to theatrical stage shows. The 1,419-seat Moore Theatre opened its doors in 1907 as a premier vaudeville showplace, and is the oldest operating theatre in Seattle. Today, both venues, which continue to rank in Pollstar’s Top 100 Worldwide Theatre Venues, present a mix of concerts, live entertainment, Broadway touring engagements, theater productions, speakers’ series, and more. With the new ticketing services contract, Tickets.com continues to expand its high profile performing arts client list.
In addition to the advanced ProVenue® ticketing solution that maximizes transaction speed, efficiency and flexibility, the Seattle Theatre Group will employ innovative Tickets.com technologies such as the latest in mobile ticket delivery functionality, Tickets@Phone™. Other software products and features include: Access Control, Tickets@Home®, and local area kiosks to provide patrons with on-demand ticket printing, delivery, and management. Tickets are also available at STGpresents.org or by calling 1-877-STG-4TIX.
“Given Tickets.com’s reputation for innovation in the marketplace, we are confident that we’ll be able to continuously offer the best and most advanced ticketing solutions available,” said Seattle Theatre Group executive director Josh LaBelle. “We were especially impressed with the company’s ongoing commitment to providing comprehensive client services and breakthrough technologies. We believe this will contribute to our ability to give patrons an exceptional event-going experience to remember.”
Learn more about Tickets.com >
“Seattle Theatre Group is a respected organization that maintains its commitment to preserving both of its theatres with extraordinary programming as well as outstanding community and educational outreach,” said Larry Witherspoon, chief executive officer, Tickets.com. “We’re honored to have the opportunity to provide them with leading-edge ticketing solutions, so that patrons of these legendary venues can have the best possible experience, from point of purchase through curtain call.”
Built with funds from pioneering Hollywood film studio Paramount Pictures and opened as the Seattle Theatre in 1928, the 2,807-seat Paramount adopted its new name in 1930, operating as a golden-era movie palace and home to theatrical stage shows. The 1,419-seat Moore Theatre opened its doors in 1907 as a premier vaudeville showplace, and is the oldest operating theatre in Seattle. Today, both venues, which continue to rank in Pollstar’s Top 100 Worldwide Theatre Venues, present a mix of concerts, live entertainment, Broadway touring engagements, theater productions, speakers’ series, and more. With the new ticketing services contract, Tickets.com continues to expand its high profile performing arts client list.
In addition to the advanced ProVenue® ticketing solution that maximizes transaction speed, efficiency and flexibility, the Seattle Theatre Group will employ innovative Tickets.com technologies such as the latest in mobile ticket delivery functionality, Tickets@Phone™. Other software products and features include: Access Control, Tickets@Home®, and local area kiosks to provide patrons with on-demand ticket printing, delivery, and management. Tickets are also available at STGpresents.org or by calling 1-877-STG-4TIX.
“Given Tickets.com’s reputation for innovation in the marketplace, we are confident that we’ll be able to continuously offer the best and most advanced ticketing solutions available,” said Seattle Theatre Group executive director Josh LaBelle. “We were especially impressed with the company’s ongoing commitment to providing comprehensive client services and breakthrough technologies. We believe this will contribute to our ability to give patrons an exceptional event-going experience to remember.”
Learn more about Tickets.com >
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
Tickets.com Client Spotlight: Seattle Theatre Group
Paramount, Moore theaters unveil new services
The Paramount and The Moore Theatre have launched some new features: a new Web site, 24-hour ticket kiosks and a new ticketing system through Tickets.com.
By Marian Liu
Seattle Times staff reporter
Seattle Theatre Group, the parent nonprofit company that runs the Moore, above, and Paramount theaters, has a new Web site and 24-hour ticket kiosks.
Related
Building on their growth over the past year, The Paramount and The Moore theatres are launching a rebranding effort and some novel features: a new Web site, 24-hour ticket kiosks and a new ticketing system.
The Paramount and the Moore are run by a parent nonprofit company called Seattle Theatre Group, which also has started presenting shows at other venues. In 2008, STG hosted Kanye West at KeyArena, David Byrne at Benaroya Hall, and other artists at The Triple Door, Town Hall and The Showbox.
"Over the last year, business went really well. We had five to six performances a month outside of our own venues," said STG executive director Josh LaBelle. "At the same time, it's been a bit confusing, seeing STG outside of the historic Paramount and Moore Theatres."
Now, STGpresents.org will be a "mother site" to the two theaters' Web sites: www.theparamount.com and www.themoore.com.
"We're a nonprofit, but we had a dot-com as an address," said LaBelle. "We have not been as clear about who we are, under theparamount.com, so for us, this really is very important to improve our nonprofit branding."
The site will also include promotional offers; links for easy access to news online; social networks such as Facebook and MySpace; and social messaging services like Twitter, as well as a new blog.
Along with the new Web site launch, STG is transferring the majority of its engagements from Ticketmaster to Tickets.com.
"I've got nothing but respect for Ticketmaster," said LaBelle. "But we're a pretty unique organization, in terms of ticketing needs. In a given season, we sell 500 to 600 thousand tickets. At any time, we sell 3,000 tickets in 4 minutes."
The switch, adds LaBelle, will be cheaper for patrons as well, averaging at 20 percent less.
Currently tickets.com serves more than 2,000 clients and venues worldwide, such as the upcoming Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics, along with 13 Major League Baseball teams.
"Our best differentiator is our technology," said Brian Roberts, vice president of sales of Tickets.com.
The service's most recent innovation is the ability to purchase and deliver tickets via cellphone. A bar code for each ticket is sent to a phone and the code can then be scanned off the phone's display by a ticket taker at the venue.
Tickets.com is owned by MLB.com, the official site of Major League Baseball. So, LaBelle is hoping STG can utilize some of its features, like the video playback system, so patrons can review performances online. Potentially, customers can order their tickets and concert merchandise at the same time online.
There will also be new 24 hour ticket kiosks near the theaters, so fans can purchase tickets at their own convenience.
"It's like a brand new world for our staff, and eventually for our patrons," said LaBelle.
The Paramount and The Moore Theatre have launched some new features: a new Web site, 24-hour ticket kiosks and a new ticketing system through Tickets.com.
By Marian Liu
Seattle Times staff reporter
Seattle Theatre Group, the parent nonprofit company that runs the Moore, above, and Paramount theaters, has a new Web site and 24-hour ticket kiosks.
Related
Building on their growth over the past year, The Paramount and The Moore theatres are launching a rebranding effort and some novel features: a new Web site, 24-hour ticket kiosks and a new ticketing system.
The Paramount and the Moore are run by a parent nonprofit company called Seattle Theatre Group, which also has started presenting shows at other venues. In 2008, STG hosted Kanye West at KeyArena, David Byrne at Benaroya Hall, and other artists at The Triple Door, Town Hall and The Showbox.
"Over the last year, business went really well. We had five to six performances a month outside of our own venues," said STG executive director Josh LaBelle. "At the same time, it's been a bit confusing, seeing STG outside of the historic Paramount and Moore Theatres."
Now, STGpresents.org will be a "mother site" to the two theaters' Web sites: www.theparamount.com and www.themoore.com.
"We're a nonprofit, but we had a dot-com as an address," said LaBelle. "We have not been as clear about who we are, under theparamount.com, so for us, this really is very important to improve our nonprofit branding."
The site will also include promotional offers; links for easy access to news online; social networks such as Facebook and MySpace; and social messaging services like Twitter, as well as a new blog.
Along with the new Web site launch, STG is transferring the majority of its engagements from Ticketmaster to Tickets.com.
"I've got nothing but respect for Ticketmaster," said LaBelle. "But we're a pretty unique organization, in terms of ticketing needs. In a given season, we sell 500 to 600 thousand tickets. At any time, we sell 3,000 tickets in 4 minutes."
The switch, adds LaBelle, will be cheaper for patrons as well, averaging at 20 percent less.
Currently tickets.com serves more than 2,000 clients and venues worldwide, such as the upcoming Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics, along with 13 Major League Baseball teams.
"Our best differentiator is our technology," said Brian Roberts, vice president of sales of Tickets.com.
The service's most recent innovation is the ability to purchase and deliver tickets via cellphone. A bar code for each ticket is sent to a phone and the code can then be scanned off the phone's display by a ticket taker at the venue.
Tickets.com is owned by MLB.com, the official site of Major League Baseball. So, LaBelle is hoping STG can utilize some of its features, like the video playback system, so patrons can review performances online. Potentially, customers can order their tickets and concert merchandise at the same time online.
There will also be new 24 hour ticket kiosks near the theaters, so fans can purchase tickets at their own convenience.
"It's like a brand new world for our staff, and eventually for our patrons," said LaBelle.
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Tickets.com and Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts Sign Long-Term Contract For Exclusive Ticketing Technologies and Services
COSTA MESA, CA – December 10, 2008 – Tickets.com, a leading worldwide provider of integrated ticketing solutions, announces an exclusive ticketing services agreement with Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts in Vienna, Virginia. Recognized as America’s only National Park for the performing arts, the non-profit entity includes the 7,028 seat Filene Center amphitheater, Children's Theatre-In-The-Woods, The Barns at Wolf Trap and Wolf Trap’s Center for Education. The park is managed through a public/private partnership between Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts and the National Park Service of the U.S. Department of the Interior.
Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts has been allied with Tickets.com since 1992 and was the first Tickets.com client located in the mid-Atlantic region, as well as the first performing arts organization to use the company’s Private Label, Shopping Cart, and Virtual Waiting Room features and functionality. Other Tickets.com patron experience enhancing products available for use by Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts include: Tickets@Phone, digital ticket delivery to a consumer’s mobile phone; and ProVenue® Automated Kiosks, offering 24/7 self-service stand-alone box office facilities. Additionally, in the fall of 2009, Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts will upgrade their current ticketing system to the latest, most advanced ProVenue solution.
“We appreciate Tickets.com’s ongoing commitment to developing leading edge technologies and ensuring their ease of use,” said Beth Brummel, vice president for External Affairs, Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts. “This allows us to provide the best possible customer experience for everyone who attends concerts, events, and educational programs at Wolf Trap.”
Tickets for a number of 2009 Filene Center season events went on sale November 22, including A Prairie Home Companion – Garrison Keillor, Face of America – Glacier National Park, High School Musical, Riverdance, and pop/world acts Gordon Lightfoot; Peter, Paul & Mary; and Pink Martini.
“We are honored that Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts has continued to entrust Tickets.com with providing ticketing solutions and customer service for its facilities,” said Brian Roberts, vice president of sales, Tickets.com. “It is exciting to be part of the organization’s continued growth, and to offer its customers new breakthrough technologies that will further complement their patronage of Wolf Trap’s beautiful venues.”
Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts has been allied with Tickets.com since 1992 and was the first Tickets.com client located in the mid-Atlantic region, as well as the first performing arts organization to use the company’s Private Label, Shopping Cart, and Virtual Waiting Room features and functionality. Other Tickets.com patron experience enhancing products available for use by Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts include: Tickets@Phone, digital ticket delivery to a consumer’s mobile phone; and ProVenue® Automated Kiosks, offering 24/7 self-service stand-alone box office facilities. Additionally, in the fall of 2009, Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts will upgrade their current ticketing system to the latest, most advanced ProVenue solution.
“We appreciate Tickets.com’s ongoing commitment to developing leading edge technologies and ensuring their ease of use,” said Beth Brummel, vice president for External Affairs, Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts. “This allows us to provide the best possible customer experience for everyone who attends concerts, events, and educational programs at Wolf Trap.”
Tickets for a number of 2009 Filene Center season events went on sale November 22, including A Prairie Home Companion – Garrison Keillor, Face of America – Glacier National Park, High School Musical, Riverdance, and pop/world acts Gordon Lightfoot; Peter, Paul & Mary; and Pink Martini.
“We are honored that Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts has continued to entrust Tickets.com with providing ticketing solutions and customer service for its facilities,” said Brian Roberts, vice president of sales, Tickets.com. “It is exciting to be part of the organization’s continued growth, and to offer its customers new breakthrough technologies that will further complement their patronage of Wolf Trap’s beautiful venues.”
Monday, December 8, 2008
Tickets.com Client Spotlight: Wolf Trap
Wolf Trap's Filene Center Receives Nomination for Best Small Outdoor Venue Award by Pollstar and Ranks # 3 in Ticket Sales
VIENNA, Va., Dec. 8 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Filene Center, Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts' outdoor amphitheater, recently received massive dual recognition from international concert industry resource Pollstar as one of the Top 100 Worldwide Amphitheater Venues for 2008. The Filene Center received nomination for a 2008 Pollstar Concert Industry Award in the category of Red Rocks Award/Best Small Outdoor Venue, resulting from the collective decision process of industry agents, managers, talent buyers, and record company executives. The Filene Center has enjoyed previous success in this category, taking home the award in 2003. Additionally, the weekly magazine listed the Filene Center as the No. 3 amphitheater for third quarter year-to-date tickets sales, surpassing sales of such nationally recognized venues as Red Rocks Amphitheater in Morrison, Colorado; Saratoga Performing Arts Center in Saratoga Springs, New York; and Nissan Pavilion in Bristow, Virginia.
Additional Washington D.C. area amphitheaters listed in the top 100 include Merriweather Post Pavilion (No. 26) and Nissan Pavilion (No. 7). Washington D.C.'s 9:30 Club was ranked No. 1 out of the top 100 club venues in the United States. Pollstar's latest ticket sales rankings are a testament to fans appreciation for the high-quality, diverse programming that Wolf Trap and other D.C. area venues continue to offer each year.
The Filene Center at Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts was named after Wolf Trap's founder, Catherine Filene Shouse, who donated 100 acres of her land and related funds to the federal government in 1966 with the specific intent of constructing the nation's first and only National Park for the Performing Arts. Throughout the summer season, Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts offers a broad representation of performance styles for all ages, including rock, pop, jazz, blues, zydeco, soul, funk, country, opera, and classical. To name a few, this past summer featured such legendary performers as James Taylor, Emmylou Harris, Al Green, Mark Knopfler, Herbie Hancock, Ricky Skaggs & Bruce Hornsby, and Ben Folds.
More information on Wolf Trap's Filene Center >
More information on the 2008 Pollstar Concert Industry Awards >
More information about Tickets.com ticketing solutions >
VIENNA, Va., Dec. 8 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Filene Center, Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts' outdoor amphitheater, recently received massive dual recognition from international concert industry resource Pollstar as one of the Top 100 Worldwide Amphitheater Venues for 2008. The Filene Center received nomination for a 2008 Pollstar Concert Industry Award in the category of Red Rocks Award/Best Small Outdoor Venue, resulting from the collective decision process of industry agents, managers, talent buyers, and record company executives. The Filene Center has enjoyed previous success in this category, taking home the award in 2003. Additionally, the weekly magazine listed the Filene Center as the No. 3 amphitheater for third quarter year-to-date tickets sales, surpassing sales of such nationally recognized venues as Red Rocks Amphitheater in Morrison, Colorado; Saratoga Performing Arts Center in Saratoga Springs, New York; and Nissan Pavilion in Bristow, Virginia.
Additional Washington D.C. area amphitheaters listed in the top 100 include Merriweather Post Pavilion (No. 26) and Nissan Pavilion (No. 7). Washington D.C.'s 9:30 Club was ranked No. 1 out of the top 100 club venues in the United States. Pollstar's latest ticket sales rankings are a testament to fans appreciation for the high-quality, diverse programming that Wolf Trap and other D.C. area venues continue to offer each year.
The Filene Center at Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts was named after Wolf Trap's founder, Catherine Filene Shouse, who donated 100 acres of her land and related funds to the federal government in 1966 with the specific intent of constructing the nation's first and only National Park for the Performing Arts. Throughout the summer season, Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts offers a broad representation of performance styles for all ages, including rock, pop, jazz, blues, zydeco, soul, funk, country, opera, and classical. To name a few, this past summer featured such legendary performers as James Taylor, Emmylou Harris, Al Green, Mark Knopfler, Herbie Hancock, Ricky Skaggs & Bruce Hornsby, and Ben Folds.
More information on Wolf Trap's Filene Center >
More information on the 2008 Pollstar Concert Industry Awards >
More information about Tickets.com ticketing solutions >
Friday, December 5, 2008
Dynamic Ticket Pricing: San Francisco Giants
The San Francisco Giants rethink ticket pricing and will offer dynamic pricing in 2009.
Watch video >
Watch video >
Thursday, December 4, 2008
Tickets.com Client Spotlight: San Jose Earthquakes
Mexico Open '09 U.S. Tour Against Sweden
Soccer365.com
The Federación Mexicana de Fútbol (FMF), together with Soccer United Marketing (SUM) and the San Jose Earthquakes, today announced the Mexican National Team’s 2009 U.S. Tour will kick off on Wednesday, January 28 against the Swedish National Team at the Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum at 7:30 pm PT (TV: Telemundo, Radio: Futbol de Primera), setting up an exciting match up between Mexico’s head coach Sven-Göran Eriksson and his native country where he enjoys superstar status.
The popular Mexican National Team will play five games on U.S. soil in 2009, which will mark the sixth edition of the annual tour. "After a successful first season for the San Jose Earthquakes we want to continue our efforts to bring international soccer matches to the Bay Area," stated David Alioto, Executive Vice President of the San Jose Earthquakes. "We are very excited to host the Mexican National team and show our efforts to serve the Hispanic community as well."
Tickets starting as low as $20 for the January 28 match at McAfee Coliseum go on sale today, December 3, 2008 in an exclusive Visa presale. Visa cardholders should visit Tickets.com to purchase tickets with their Visa cards. Tickets to the general public will go on sale on December 15 and will be available by visiting Tickets.com or calling 1-800-225-2277 and 1-877-QUAKE-01. The Federación Mexicana de Fútbol encourages its fans to use their Visa cards.
Mexico vs. Sweden – January 28
Mexico and Sweden have met on eight occasions all-time, with two wins and three ties for the “Tricolor.” The last match between the two on U.S. soil was played on January 26, 2004 in San Diego, California, ending in a 0-0 draw. The upcoming January match will mark Mexico’s return to Oakland where it has played many times, most recently in a 4-2 win over Ecuador on March 28, 2007 in front of a sold out crowd of 47,000 fans. More recently on March 2, 2008, the Under-23 teams of Mexico and Australia tied 1-1 at the then-named McAfee Coliseum once again in front of a sold-out crowd.
Following its qualification to the Final Round of World Cup Qualification in the CONCACAF region, Mexico will start its quest for a ticket to South Africa against its biggest rival the United States in a venue to be determined in the United States on February 2, 2008. The match against Sweden is the team’s only preparatory match before it starts the next round of Qualification.
Sweden, who has qualified for the last two World Cups and made the second round in both, is currently in 5th place with a 1-2-0 record in Group One of UEFA World Cup Qualifying. Prior to the match against Mexico, Sweden will face the United States on Saturday, January 24 at the Home Depot Center.
The Mexican National team’s U.S. tour not only allows its U.S.-based fans to witness team’s matches first hand, but also allows the team to play top class opponents while strengthening its player pool in preparation for major international tournaments.
Soccer365.com
The Federación Mexicana de Fútbol (FMF), together with Soccer United Marketing (SUM) and the San Jose Earthquakes, today announced the Mexican National Team’s 2009 U.S. Tour will kick off on Wednesday, January 28 against the Swedish National Team at the Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum at 7:30 pm PT (TV: Telemundo, Radio: Futbol de Primera), setting up an exciting match up between Mexico’s head coach Sven-Göran Eriksson and his native country where he enjoys superstar status.
The popular Mexican National Team will play five games on U.S. soil in 2009, which will mark the sixth edition of the annual tour. "After a successful first season for the San Jose Earthquakes we want to continue our efforts to bring international soccer matches to the Bay Area," stated David Alioto, Executive Vice President of the San Jose Earthquakes. "We are very excited to host the Mexican National team and show our efforts to serve the Hispanic community as well."
Tickets starting as low as $20 for the January 28 match at McAfee Coliseum go on sale today, December 3, 2008 in an exclusive Visa presale. Visa cardholders should visit Tickets.com to purchase tickets with their Visa cards. Tickets to the general public will go on sale on December 15 and will be available by visiting Tickets.com or calling 1-800-225-2277 and 1-877-QUAKE-01. The Federación Mexicana de Fútbol encourages its fans to use their Visa cards.
Mexico vs. Sweden – January 28
Mexico and Sweden have met on eight occasions all-time, with two wins and three ties for the “Tricolor.” The last match between the two on U.S. soil was played on January 26, 2004 in San Diego, California, ending in a 0-0 draw. The upcoming January match will mark Mexico’s return to Oakland where it has played many times, most recently in a 4-2 win over Ecuador on March 28, 2007 in front of a sold out crowd of 47,000 fans. More recently on March 2, 2008, the Under-23 teams of Mexico and Australia tied 1-1 at the then-named McAfee Coliseum once again in front of a sold-out crowd.
Following its qualification to the Final Round of World Cup Qualification in the CONCACAF region, Mexico will start its quest for a ticket to South Africa against its biggest rival the United States in a venue to be determined in the United States on February 2, 2008. The match against Sweden is the team’s only preparatory match before it starts the next round of Qualification.
Sweden, who has qualified for the last two World Cups and made the second round in both, is currently in 5th place with a 1-2-0 record in Group One of UEFA World Cup Qualifying. Prior to the match against Mexico, Sweden will face the United States on Saturday, January 24 at the Home Depot Center.
The Mexican National team’s U.S. tour not only allows its U.S.-based fans to witness team’s matches first hand, but also allows the team to play top class opponents while strengthening its player pool in preparation for major international tournaments.
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Tickets.com Client Spotlight: San Francisco Giants
Giants plan aggressive dynamic-pricing effort
Published December 01, 2008
Sports Business Journal
By DON MURET
Staff writer
The San Francisco Giants have signed a deal with a software company that enables them to change single-game ticket prices at any time.
The club hired QCue to help find the right price for selling 2,000 seats in AT&T Park’s outfield bleachers and upper deck, the last ones to sell for Giants games, said Russ Stanley, managing vice president of ticket services and client relations. Stanley declined to disclose the financial terms, and as of last week the two parties were still negotiating the length of the contract.
QCue, a one-year-old firm based in Austin, Texas, connects its system with Tickets.com, the Giants’ ticket agent. QCue joins Stratbridge, Eloqua and other data managers that teams use to crunch sales numbers to determine the right price to sell those tickets in low demand.
QCue’s formula, similar to Stratbridge’s, plugs in factors such as team performance, opponent, starting pitchers, weather conditions, day of the week and gate giveaways. The Giants will use those results to raise or lower ticket prices as late as the morning of a game for tickets purchased online, at ticket kiosks, by phone and at the box office, Stanley said.
The plan early on is to adjust prices once a day for every home game. “We have the potential to change every price in those [seven] sections every day,” Stanley said. “We could go up or down. There may be a day we do multiple changes and we have that ability.”
The price change will most likely be 25 cents to $1. The Giants believe even a decrease that small will make a difference as they attempt to move slow-selling seats without alienating season-ticket holders who pay full price for their seats, Stanley said.
There are other clubs reducing ticket prices on game days to fill seats, said Matt Marolda, founder of Stratbridge. Marolda, whose company has deals with 40 teams and leaguewide contracts with the NBA and NHL, declined to identify specific clubs.
Stratbridge was among the first to develop computer programs to help pro teams implement dynamic-pricing strategies before and during the regular season. “No teams are as aggressive as the Giants,” Marolda acknowledged.
The Colorado Rockies, whom the Giants talked to before doing their deal with QCue, use a less analytical form of dynamic pricing to fill Coors Field’s 50,449 seats.
The team does not feed boutique software into its Paciolan system (soon to be known as Ticketmaster Irvine) but does rely on historical data and team performance before setting prices for single-game tickets, said Greg Feasel, the Rockies’ senior vice president of business operations.
“We have so many people who live and work downtown that wait longer to make a decision,” Feasel said. “A lot depends on the weather.”
Depending on day-of-game demand, the team lowers its price by about $1 for seats in the upper deck and $4 to $6 for other seats when the Rockpile, the popular family section above the batter’s eye in center field, sells out.
Kids younger than 12 and adults older than 55 can buy tickets for $1 in the 2,300-seat Rockpile and others pay $4 to sit there. “We don’t want to lose those fans waiting in line if they can’t get those tickets,” Feasel said.
In San Francisco, QCue tested its software without selling tickets at the end of the 2008 season, and identified a three-game series in early September against the Diamondbacks for which the team could have decreased prices slightly to move tickets.
“It gave us a good feel for how this would work,” Stanley said.
The Giants were out of the divisional playoff race and “there wasn’t a whole lot of demand” for those games, said QCue CEO Barry Kahn.
Published December 01, 2008
Sports Business Journal
By DON MURET
Staff writer
The San Francisco Giants have signed a deal with a software company that enables them to change single-game ticket prices at any time.
The club hired QCue to help find the right price for selling 2,000 seats in AT&T Park’s outfield bleachers and upper deck, the last ones to sell for Giants games, said Russ Stanley, managing vice president of ticket services and client relations. Stanley declined to disclose the financial terms, and as of last week the two parties were still negotiating the length of the contract.
QCue, a one-year-old firm based in Austin, Texas, connects its system with Tickets.com, the Giants’ ticket agent. QCue joins Stratbridge, Eloqua and other data managers that teams use to crunch sales numbers to determine the right price to sell those tickets in low demand.
QCue’s formula, similar to Stratbridge’s, plugs in factors such as team performance, opponent, starting pitchers, weather conditions, day of the week and gate giveaways. The Giants will use those results to raise or lower ticket prices as late as the morning of a game for tickets purchased online, at ticket kiosks, by phone and at the box office, Stanley said.
The plan early on is to adjust prices once a day for every home game. “We have the potential to change every price in those [seven] sections every day,” Stanley said. “We could go up or down. There may be a day we do multiple changes and we have that ability.”
The price change will most likely be 25 cents to $1. The Giants believe even a decrease that small will make a difference as they attempt to move slow-selling seats without alienating season-ticket holders who pay full price for their seats, Stanley said.
There are other clubs reducing ticket prices on game days to fill seats, said Matt Marolda, founder of Stratbridge. Marolda, whose company has deals with 40 teams and leaguewide contracts with the NBA and NHL, declined to identify specific clubs.
Stratbridge was among the first to develop computer programs to help pro teams implement dynamic-pricing strategies before and during the regular season. “No teams are as aggressive as the Giants,” Marolda acknowledged.
The Colorado Rockies, whom the Giants talked to before doing their deal with QCue, use a less analytical form of dynamic pricing to fill Coors Field’s 50,449 seats.
The team does not feed boutique software into its Paciolan system (soon to be known as Ticketmaster Irvine) but does rely on historical data and team performance before setting prices for single-game tickets, said Greg Feasel, the Rockies’ senior vice president of business operations.
“We have so many people who live and work downtown that wait longer to make a decision,” Feasel said. “A lot depends on the weather.”
Depending on day-of-game demand, the team lowers its price by about $1 for seats in the upper deck and $4 to $6 for other seats when the Rockpile, the popular family section above the batter’s eye in center field, sells out.
Kids younger than 12 and adults older than 55 can buy tickets for $1 in the 2,300-seat Rockpile and others pay $4 to sit there. “We don’t want to lose those fans waiting in line if they can’t get those tickets,” Feasel said.
In San Francisco, QCue tested its software without selling tickets at the end of the 2008 season, and identified a three-game series in early September against the Diamondbacks for which the team could have decreased prices slightly to move tickets.
“It gave us a good feel for how this would work,” Stanley said.
The Giants were out of the divisional playoff race and “there wasn’t a whole lot of demand” for those games, said QCue CEO Barry Kahn.
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Tickets.com sales surge for the 2010 Winter Olympics
The Costa Mesa-based company is the official supplier for the Vancouver Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.
OC Metro
By Jena Vuylsteke
Published: November 24, 2008
Although the 2010 Winter Games are over a year a way, tickets.com has already seen their sales skyrocket. Expected to release 1.6 million tickets over the course of the next year, the company began phase one of the process on Oct. 3, opening up tickets for Canadian residents that ranged anywhere from $25 for a single event, to $1,100 to attend the opening or closing ceremonies.
“In terms of volume, Vancouver presented a unique challenge; compared to the Salt Lake 2002 Winter Olympic Games, in phase one alone Vancouver has already sold two times the tickets requested,” according to tickets.com CEO Larry Witherspoon.
Activating a new ProVenue Ticket Management System to ensure security, the Vancouver Organizing Committee agreed that the first phase of sales was a success. "The Web site developed by tickets.com was easy to use and held up under incredible volume including $135 million in requests on the final day,” says Caley Denton, the committee's vice president.
The 2010 Winter Games marks tickets.com’s fourth time as an Olympic retailer, beginning with the Atlanta Summer Games in 1996.
Learn more >
OC Metro
By Jena Vuylsteke
Published: November 24, 2008
Although the 2010 Winter Games are over a year a way, tickets.com has already seen their sales skyrocket. Expected to release 1.6 million tickets over the course of the next year, the company began phase one of the process on Oct. 3, opening up tickets for Canadian residents that ranged anywhere from $25 for a single event, to $1,100 to attend the opening or closing ceremonies.
“In terms of volume, Vancouver presented a unique challenge; compared to the Salt Lake 2002 Winter Olympic Games, in phase one alone Vancouver has already sold two times the tickets requested,” according to tickets.com CEO Larry Witherspoon.
Activating a new ProVenue Ticket Management System to ensure security, the Vancouver Organizing Committee agreed that the first phase of sales was a success. "The Web site developed by tickets.com was easy to use and held up under incredible volume including $135 million in requests on the final day,” says Caley Denton, the committee's vice president.
The 2010 Winter Games marks tickets.com’s fourth time as an Olympic retailer, beginning with the Atlanta Summer Games in 1996.
Learn more >
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Tickets.com Client Spotlight: University at Buffalo Bulls
UB’s comeback is simply golden
Bowl invitation helps right past wrong
With their 40-34 double overtime win on Friday night at Bowling Green, the University at Buffalo Bulls clinched their first outright Mid America Conference East Division championship. The Bulls will play the West Division winner in the MAC Championship game Sat Dec 6 at Ford Field in Detroit, MI. The Bulls will meet either 16th ranked Ball State, Central Michigan or Western Michigan. UB’s regular season concludes with a home game on Fri Nov 28 2pm vs. Kent St.
Buffalo rallied from a 20 point deficit with just 13 minutes left in the game, tying the game at 27-27 with 37 seconds left, sending Buffalo to overtime for the fifth time this season. James Starks 25 yard TD run on the first play of the second overtime clinched the victory. Of their 11 games this season, five games have been decided in OT and two others on the final play of the game.
Following the MAC championship game, the Bulls season will continue as participants in either the International Bowl in Toronto, Motor City Bowl in Detroit or the GMAC Bowl in Mobile, AL. The last Bulls team to quality for a post season bowl game was the ‘58 squad who qualified for the Tangerine Bowl in Orlando, FL. But the team declined the bid when the Orlando hosts said UB’s two black players wouldn’t be allowed on the same field with white players. The 1958 team was honored earlier this season prior to a UB home game and also was featured on ESPN’s “Outside The Line” on Sun Nov 23.
Read more >
Bowl invitation helps right past wrong
With their 40-34 double overtime win on Friday night at Bowling Green, the University at Buffalo Bulls clinched their first outright Mid America Conference East Division championship. The Bulls will play the West Division winner in the MAC Championship game Sat Dec 6 at Ford Field in Detroit, MI. The Bulls will meet either 16th ranked Ball State, Central Michigan or Western Michigan. UB’s regular season concludes with a home game on Fri Nov 28 2pm vs. Kent St.
Buffalo rallied from a 20 point deficit with just 13 minutes left in the game, tying the game at 27-27 with 37 seconds left, sending Buffalo to overtime for the fifth time this season. James Starks 25 yard TD run on the first play of the second overtime clinched the victory. Of their 11 games this season, five games have been decided in OT and two others on the final play of the game.
Following the MAC championship game, the Bulls season will continue as participants in either the International Bowl in Toronto, Motor City Bowl in Detroit or the GMAC Bowl in Mobile, AL. The last Bulls team to quality for a post season bowl game was the ‘58 squad who qualified for the Tangerine Bowl in Orlando, FL. But the team declined the bid when the Orlando hosts said UB’s two black players wouldn’t be allowed on the same field with white players. The 1958 team was honored earlier this season prior to a UB home game and also was featured on ESPN’s “Outside The Line” on Sun Nov 23.
Read more >
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Tickets.com Client Spotlight: Times Union Center
River Rats Honor Veterans With Free Ticket
ALBANY, NY - The Albany River Rats announced today the team will offer all veterans and active military personnel a free game ticket for the team's game against the Syracuse Crunch on Wednesday, November 12 at 7:00 pm at the Times Union Center.
In order to receive their ticket, veterans should bring their military ID, American Legion or VFW Card, or a copy of the DD214 form to the River Rats office during regular business hours or to the Times Union Center Box office at least more than one hour prior to the game. There is a limit of one ticket per veteran.
The River Rats will complete their three-game home stand on Wednesday, November 12th as they host their I-90 Rivals the Syracuse Crunch for a 7:00 pm face off at the Times Union Center.
River Rats flex ticket packages and individual game tickets are on sale now at the River Rats office and the Times Union Center Box Office. For more information please contact the Albany River Rats at (518) 487-2244 or online at www.albanyriverrats.com.
ALBANY, NY - The Albany River Rats announced today the team will offer all veterans and active military personnel a free game ticket for the team's game against the Syracuse Crunch on Wednesday, November 12 at 7:00 pm at the Times Union Center.In order to receive their ticket, veterans should bring their military ID, American Legion or VFW Card, or a copy of the DD214 form to the River Rats office during regular business hours or to the Times Union Center Box office at least more than one hour prior to the game. There is a limit of one ticket per veteran.
The River Rats will complete their three-game home stand on Wednesday, November 12th as they host their I-90 Rivals the Syracuse Crunch for a 7:00 pm face off at the Times Union Center.
River Rats flex ticket packages and individual game tickets are on sale now at the River Rats office and the Times Union Center Box Office. For more information please contact the Albany River Rats at (518) 487-2244 or online at www.albanyriverrats.com.
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Tickets.com Congratulates John Bolton, Winner of VenuesToday Award
The 2008 recipient for VenuesToday "Hall of Headlines" Award in Bookings goes to Tickets.com client John Bolton, General Manager SMG-BOK Center
John Bolton, General Manager of the SMG-BOK Center , Tulsa, OK., won this honor for the grand opening of the 19,000-seat arena with separate dates for the Eagles, Kenny Chesney with LeAnn Rimes, American Idol Live, Rascal Flatts with Taylor Swift, Jeff Dunham, World Tour of Gymnastics Superstars, and an NBA Exhibition Game (Houston Rockets vs. OKC).
John Bolton, General Manager of the SMG-BOK Center , Tulsa, OK., won this honor for the grand opening of the 19,000-seat arena with separate dates for the Eagles, Kenny Chesney with LeAnn Rimes, American Idol Live, Rascal Flatts with Taylor Swift, Jeff Dunham, World Tour of Gymnastics Superstars, and an NBA Exhibition Game (Houston Rockets vs. OKC).
Monday, November 3, 2008
Tickets.com Client Spotlight: Saskatchewan Roughriders
Roughriders sell out playoff game versus Lions in just 35 minutes
REGINA — It didn't take the Saskatchewan Roughriders long to sell out their West Division semifinal contest against the B.C. Lions.
The Riders made tickets to the game available to the general public Monday morning, and they were sold out within 35 minutes. So when Saskatchewan takes to the field against B.C. on Saturday (4:30 p.m. ET), it will do so with the support of a capacity gathering of 30,945.
It will mark the 18th straight sellout at Mosaic Stadium dating back to last year.
The Roughriders will also be hosting a playoff game for the second straight season after going 18 years without one.
"The support the Riders have received continues to overwhelm us," team president Jim Hopson said in a statement. "From pre-season to the playoff game, the dedication from our fans has not wavered and for that we are grateful."
REGINA — It didn't take the Saskatchewan Roughriders long to sell out their West Division semifinal contest against the B.C. Lions.
The Riders made tickets to the game available to the general public Monday morning, and they were sold out within 35 minutes. So when Saskatchewan takes to the field against B.C. on Saturday (4:30 p.m. ET), it will do so with the support of a capacity gathering of 30,945.
It will mark the 18th straight sellout at Mosaic Stadium dating back to last year.
The Roughriders will also be hosting a playoff game for the second straight season after going 18 years without one.
"The support the Riders have received continues to overwhelm us," team president Jim Hopson said in a statement. "From pre-season to the playoff game, the dedication from our fans has not wavered and for that we are grateful."
Friday, October 31, 2008
Tickets.com Client Spotlight: Wellmont Theatre
Wellmont opens to rave reviews
(by George Wirt - October 30, 2008)
It was a day late, but still great.
That’s what music fans had to say about one of the most anticipated opening nights in Montclair in years as nearly 2,000 patrons poured into the newly renovated Wellmont Theatre to witness Counting Crows inaugurate North Jersey’s newest venue for live performances.
"It’s an awesome place," said first-nighter Rudy Putignano, who came with his wife Terry. "It reminds me a lot of the old Capital Theater in Passaic. It’s a real classic"
"We came down on Monday night, and we were a little disappointed when they had to postpone it," said Terry Putignano, "But it was worth the wait."
The Putignanos were among the Counting Crows fans, music lovers, local officials and the just plain curious who put down $75 a ticket to get a first glimpse inside the new Wellmont Theatre.
Opening night had originally been set for Monday, but was pushed back to Tuesday evening after Crows lead singer Adam Duritz, who has been battling the flu, was unable to perform for the first of three consecutive nights at the new Wellmont.
Concertgoers who purchased tickets for the Crows’ Wednesday show saw the group last night, while Crows fans with tickets for the Crows’ third and final appearance in Montclair during this stop on their tour, will see the group tonight.
"We’re all excited," said Jim Glancy, a partner in the Bowery Presents, a company that bought the Wellmont and restored it to its former glory. "There’s a real buzz. Everywhere I went in town I heard people talking about the Wellmont and which performers they want to see."
The landmark Montclair theater first opened its doors as a venue for live performances in back in 1922 and became a classic neighborhood movie theater in 1929. But changing movie viewing habits and the digital revolution and the movies on CDs took its toll on the venerable theater.
The Wellmont’s former owners converted it into to a triplex, obscuring the theater’s palace-like grandeur which made it so special to earlier generations of Montclair moviegoers. But by 2006, with business plunging, the Wellmont shut down.
The theater was subsequently purchased by Glancy’s group, which then launched an 8-month-long restoration project. The old triplex was carefully demolished and the painstaking reconstruction and restoration process began, culminating in this week’s opening.
"I remember coming here in the old days with the stale popcorn, chewing gum on the seats and the stick floors," said 2nd Ward Township Councilman Cary Africk. "They done a careful and loving restoration."
Local officials hope the new Wellmont will help reinvigorate Montclair’s Central Business District along Bloomfield Avenue.
"You can come to the Wellmont and see great live music and entertainment, have a great meal at a local restaurant, and do it all right here in Montclair without having to go into New York," said 1st Ward Councilman Rich Murnick, who sat with Africk during Counting Crows’ performance.
The Wellmont is expected to attract throngs through the next several months with an announced lineup of upcoming concert appearances that includes Duran Duran, B.B. King, Tony Bennett, Steely Dan, Hanson, Brian Wilson and many more.
The Wellmont crowds are expected to have a decidedly Jersey flavor. Spokesperson Gretchen Wagner said the Wellmont is drawing a predominately New Jersey audience. "Our tracking on the online ticket purchases showed that 90 per cent of them were coming from North Jersey," she said.
To help make sure that the concert-goers enjoy a pleasant experience while in Montclair, municipal officials have taken steps to make parking easier.
The Montclair Parking Authority has provided the Wellmont ticket-holders with access to nearly 800 parking spaces at three nearby lots. Parking will be available at the Walnut Street Lot and the Bay Street Station Deck starting from two hours before show-time. For evening shows, hours are from 6 p.m. to 2 a.m. There are 150 spots per deck, and both are walking distance from the theater.
Additional spots are available at DCH, a parking deck owned by DCH Auto Group, located about six blocks from the Wellmont off Bloomfield Avenue, on Orange Road. Concertgoers can also pre-buy parking for $15 per show at the Wellmont Theatre box office or when purchasing tickets on Tickets.com.
Doors at the Wellmont open at 7 p.m. and the concert begins at 8 p.m.
For concert information or to check ticket availability, visit the Wellmont Theatre’s box office at 5 Seymour Street, or go online at wellmonttheatre.com. Tickets can also be purchased at Tickets.com.
Contact George Wirt at wirt@montclairtimes.com.
(by George Wirt - October 30, 2008)
It was a day late, but still great.
That’s what music fans had to say about one of the most anticipated opening nights in Montclair in years as nearly 2,000 patrons poured into the newly renovated Wellmont Theatre to witness Counting Crows inaugurate North Jersey’s newest venue for live performances.
"It’s an awesome place," said first-nighter Rudy Putignano, who came with his wife Terry. "It reminds me a lot of the old Capital Theater in Passaic. It’s a real classic"
"We came down on Monday night, and we were a little disappointed when they had to postpone it," said Terry Putignano, "But it was worth the wait."
The Putignanos were among the Counting Crows fans, music lovers, local officials and the just plain curious who put down $75 a ticket to get a first glimpse inside the new Wellmont Theatre.
Opening night had originally been set for Monday, but was pushed back to Tuesday evening after Crows lead singer Adam Duritz, who has been battling the flu, was unable to perform for the first of three consecutive nights at the new Wellmont.
Concertgoers who purchased tickets for the Crows’ Wednesday show saw the group last night, while Crows fans with tickets for the Crows’ third and final appearance in Montclair during this stop on their tour, will see the group tonight.
"We’re all excited," said Jim Glancy, a partner in the Bowery Presents, a company that bought the Wellmont and restored it to its former glory. "There’s a real buzz. Everywhere I went in town I heard people talking about the Wellmont and which performers they want to see."
The landmark Montclair theater first opened its doors as a venue for live performances in back in 1922 and became a classic neighborhood movie theater in 1929. But changing movie viewing habits and the digital revolution and the movies on CDs took its toll on the venerable theater.
The Wellmont’s former owners converted it into to a triplex, obscuring the theater’s palace-like grandeur which made it so special to earlier generations of Montclair moviegoers. But by 2006, with business plunging, the Wellmont shut down.
The theater was subsequently purchased by Glancy’s group, which then launched an 8-month-long restoration project. The old triplex was carefully demolished and the painstaking reconstruction and restoration process began, culminating in this week’s opening.
"I remember coming here in the old days with the stale popcorn, chewing gum on the seats and the stick floors," said 2nd Ward Township Councilman Cary Africk. "They done a careful and loving restoration."
Local officials hope the new Wellmont will help reinvigorate Montclair’s Central Business District along Bloomfield Avenue.
"You can come to the Wellmont and see great live music and entertainment, have a great meal at a local restaurant, and do it all right here in Montclair without having to go into New York," said 1st Ward Councilman Rich Murnick, who sat with Africk during Counting Crows’ performance.
The Wellmont is expected to attract throngs through the next several months with an announced lineup of upcoming concert appearances that includes Duran Duran, B.B. King, Tony Bennett, Steely Dan, Hanson, Brian Wilson and many more.
The Wellmont crowds are expected to have a decidedly Jersey flavor. Spokesperson Gretchen Wagner said the Wellmont is drawing a predominately New Jersey audience. "Our tracking on the online ticket purchases showed that 90 per cent of them were coming from North Jersey," she said.
To help make sure that the concert-goers enjoy a pleasant experience while in Montclair, municipal officials have taken steps to make parking easier.
The Montclair Parking Authority has provided the Wellmont ticket-holders with access to nearly 800 parking spaces at three nearby lots. Parking will be available at the Walnut Street Lot and the Bay Street Station Deck starting from two hours before show-time. For evening shows, hours are from 6 p.m. to 2 a.m. There are 150 spots per deck, and both are walking distance from the theater.
Additional spots are available at DCH, a parking deck owned by DCH Auto Group, located about six blocks from the Wellmont off Bloomfield Avenue, on Orange Road. Concertgoers can also pre-buy parking for $15 per show at the Wellmont Theatre box office or when purchasing tickets on Tickets.com.
Doors at the Wellmont open at 7 p.m. and the concert begins at 8 p.m.
For concert information or to check ticket availability, visit the Wellmont Theatre’s box office at 5 Seymour Street, or go online at wellmonttheatre.com. Tickets can also be purchased at Tickets.com.
Contact George Wirt at wirt@montclairtimes.com.
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Tickets.com Client Spotlight: Fantasy Springs Resort
Fantasy Springs to welcome Brooks and Dunn in January
Kix Brooks and Ronnie Dunn practically owned the whole line dancing craze of the 1980s and '90s.
They may own the Academy of Country Music, too, with all the awards they’ve received over the years.
We’ll find out when the duo arrives in the Coachella Valley for a one-night-only concert on Feb. 20 in Fantasy Springs Casino’s Special Events Center.
Ticket for the 8 p.m. concert, priced at $79, $89, $99 and $119, go on sale at 10 a.m. Friday through the casino box office or online.
Fantasy Springs Resort Casino is in Indio at 84245 Indio Springs Parkway. Information: 342-5000; fantasyspringsresort.com or tickets.com.
Kix Brooks and Ronnie Dunn practically owned the whole line dancing craze of the 1980s and '90s.
They may own the Academy of Country Music, too, with all the awards they’ve received over the years.
We’ll find out when the duo arrives in the Coachella Valley for a one-night-only concert on Feb. 20 in Fantasy Springs Casino’s Special Events Center.
Ticket for the 8 p.m. concert, priced at $79, $89, $99 and $119, go on sale at 10 a.m. Friday through the casino box office or online.
Fantasy Springs Resort Casino is in Indio at 84245 Indio Springs Parkway. Information: 342-5000; fantasyspringsresort.com or tickets.com.
Monday, October 27, 2008
Tickets.com Client Spotlight: Kentucky Speedway
Kentucky Speedway to Place Affordable 2009 Season Ticket Plans on Sale October 29
SPARTA, Ky. -- Four affordable ticket plans for the six-event 2009 Kentucky Speedway season that will include two doubleheader race days will be placed on sale Oct. 29.
The four-weekend season will mark the facility’s 10th year of operation and open May 9 with an ARCA RE/MAX Series 150-mile event. Racing will continue through an Aug. 1 high-speed doubleheader featuring IndyCar Series and Firestone Indy Lights primetime action.
Season plan prices range from $165 to $255 according to seat location meaning fans can enjoy a reserved seat for each of the six race events for as little as $27.50. Benefit-rich plans also include VIP parking for each event which can be exchanged for general campground admission for a savings of $30, one cold pit pass for each race day with each ticket purchased and the opportunity to purchase additional race tickets at a discount.
Speedway visitors also will be entertained with event-day concerts spotlighting well-known artists. All concerts are included with the price of an event ticket and the line-up will be announced at a future date.
Ticket plans can be reserved and renewed online at http://www.kentuckyspeedway.com, by calling 859-578-2300, through Tickets.com outlets including Meijer stores and by visiting the Kentucky Speedway ticket office in Ft. Mitchell, Ky., at 400 Buttermilk Pike, Suite 100 near the Montgomery Inn restaurant or the track Fan Center located off of Interstate 71 Exit 57 and Ky. Hwy. 35 N in Sparta, Ky.
The ARCA RE/MAX Series will open a speedway season for the ninth time with its 18th all-time appearance at the track. Roush Fenway Racing stock car talent Ricky Stenhouse, Jr., claimed his first Kentucky Speedway win on opening weekend last season by 0.374 of a second over former Formula 1 racing star Scott Speed. The competitive field also is expected to feature 2008 series champion Justin Allgaier and nine-time series title winner Frank Kimmel of Clarksville, Ind.
NASCAR Nationwide Series drivers will take center stage June 13 when they contest a 300-mile battle. A track record crowd of 73,195 witnessed the first series win by highly-touted Joe Gibbs Racing driver Joey Logano. The 18-year-old, who will take over the No. 20 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series machine next season, became the third straight competitor to claim his first series win at the track and the third straight NASCAR Nationwide Series regular to triumph in the Bluegrass State. Stephen Leicht and David Gilliland respectively accomplished the feat in 2007 and 2006.
Grizzled veterans and up-and-coming hopefuls will be part of the 10th all-time NASCAR Truck Series visit to Kentucky Speedway July 18 for the “Built Ford Tough 225 Presented by the Greater Cincinnati Ford Dealers.” Johnny Benson became the ninth different series winner in track history by guiding his machine across the finish line 0.474 of a second in front his Bill Davis Racing teammate Michael Annett in 2008. The margin was the third closest for a series event at the track. A 150-mile ARCA RE/MAX Series event will precede the truck action and mark the first time the two series will appear in a same-day doubleheader at the track. Speed took a tight 0.541 of a second victory over Sean Caisse in the July edition of the ARCA RE/MAX Series “Kentucky 150” last season.
Rocket-like race speeds of more than 200 mph will light up the Kentucky Speedway night Aug. 1 when the IndyCar Series celebrates its 10th Kentucky Speedway anniversary. Scott Dixon visited Victory Lane at the track for the first time in 2008. The reigning series champion nipped Helio Castroneves at the finish line by 0.5532 of a second in the fourth-closest series finish in track history. Sure-to-be exciting Firestone Indy Lights Series action will open the action with a twilight 100-mile tilt. Last season, Dillion Battistini aced out James Davison by an ultra-thin 0.0814 of a second margin at the finish line. The dramatic finish marked the sixth time a series race was decided by fractions of a second on the speedway 1.5-mile tri-oval.
The Kentucky Speedway sits on 1,000 acres of land 97 acres inside the tri-oval track and has been a Tickets.com client for over five years.
SPARTA, Ky. -- Four affordable ticket plans for the six-event 2009 Kentucky Speedway season that will include two doubleheader race days will be placed on sale Oct. 29.
The four-weekend season will mark the facility’s 10th year of operation and open May 9 with an ARCA RE/MAX Series 150-mile event. Racing will continue through an Aug. 1 high-speed doubleheader featuring IndyCar Series and Firestone Indy Lights primetime action.
Season plan prices range from $165 to $255 according to seat location meaning fans can enjoy a reserved seat for each of the six race events for as little as $27.50. Benefit-rich plans also include VIP parking for each event which can be exchanged for general campground admission for a savings of $30, one cold pit pass for each race day with each ticket purchased and the opportunity to purchase additional race tickets at a discount.
Speedway visitors also will be entertained with event-day concerts spotlighting well-known artists. All concerts are included with the price of an event ticket and the line-up will be announced at a future date.
Ticket plans can be reserved and renewed online at http://www.kentuckyspeedway.com, by calling 859-578-2300, through Tickets.com outlets including Meijer stores and by visiting the Kentucky Speedway ticket office in Ft. Mitchell, Ky., at 400 Buttermilk Pike, Suite 100 near the Montgomery Inn restaurant or the track Fan Center located off of Interstate 71 Exit 57 and Ky. Hwy. 35 N in Sparta, Ky.
The ARCA RE/MAX Series will open a speedway season for the ninth time with its 18th all-time appearance at the track. Roush Fenway Racing stock car talent Ricky Stenhouse, Jr., claimed his first Kentucky Speedway win on opening weekend last season by 0.374 of a second over former Formula 1 racing star Scott Speed. The competitive field also is expected to feature 2008 series champion Justin Allgaier and nine-time series title winner Frank Kimmel of Clarksville, Ind.
NASCAR Nationwide Series drivers will take center stage June 13 when they contest a 300-mile battle. A track record crowd of 73,195 witnessed the first series win by highly-touted Joe Gibbs Racing driver Joey Logano. The 18-year-old, who will take over the No. 20 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series machine next season, became the third straight competitor to claim his first series win at the track and the third straight NASCAR Nationwide Series regular to triumph in the Bluegrass State. Stephen Leicht and David Gilliland respectively accomplished the feat in 2007 and 2006.
Grizzled veterans and up-and-coming hopefuls will be part of the 10th all-time NASCAR Truck Series visit to Kentucky Speedway July 18 for the “Built Ford Tough 225 Presented by the Greater Cincinnati Ford Dealers.” Johnny Benson became the ninth different series winner in track history by guiding his machine across the finish line 0.474 of a second in front his Bill Davis Racing teammate Michael Annett in 2008. The margin was the third closest for a series event at the track. A 150-mile ARCA RE/MAX Series event will precede the truck action and mark the first time the two series will appear in a same-day doubleheader at the track. Speed took a tight 0.541 of a second victory over Sean Caisse in the July edition of the ARCA RE/MAX Series “Kentucky 150” last season.
Rocket-like race speeds of more than 200 mph will light up the Kentucky Speedway night Aug. 1 when the IndyCar Series celebrates its 10th Kentucky Speedway anniversary. Scott Dixon visited Victory Lane at the track for the first time in 2008. The reigning series champion nipped Helio Castroneves at the finish line by 0.5532 of a second in the fourth-closest series finish in track history. Sure-to-be exciting Firestone Indy Lights Series action will open the action with a twilight 100-mile tilt. Last season, Dillion Battistini aced out James Davison by an ultra-thin 0.0814 of a second margin at the finish line. The dramatic finish marked the sixth time a series race was decided by fractions of a second on the speedway 1.5-mile tri-oval.
The Kentucky Speedway sits on 1,000 acres of land 97 acres inside the tri-oval track and has been a Tickets.com client for over five years.
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Tickets.com Client Spotlight: Chicago Cubs
Cubs Convention tickets go on sale Nov. 6
Weekend passes for the 24th annual Cubs Convention will go on sale Thursday, Nov. 6, at 10 a.m., the Chicago Cubs announced today.
Passes will be available for purchase by visiting www.cubs.com or by calling tickets.com at 1-800-THE-CUBS.
The 24th annual Cubs Convention will be held at the Hilton Chicago, 720 S. Michigan Ave. , Jan. 16-18, 2009. Each fan can purchase up to four weekend passes while they last.
The convention pass, valid for entry during the entire weekend, costs $60 plus convenience fees. The hours of the convention are as follows: Friday 3 p.m. to 9 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m. to midnight and Sunday 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Included with each pass is access to all autograph/photo sessions, question and answer sessions as well as the memorabilia and vendor booths.
Rooms at the Hilton are currently sold out for Convention weekend, but fans can check back for cancellations or availability by calling 312-922-4400.
Weekend passes for the 24th annual Cubs Convention will go on sale Thursday, Nov. 6, at 10 a.m., the Chicago Cubs announced today.
Passes will be available for purchase by visiting www.cubs.com or by calling tickets.com at 1-800-THE-CUBS.
The 24th annual Cubs Convention will be held at the Hilton Chicago, 720 S. Michigan Ave. , Jan. 16-18, 2009. Each fan can purchase up to four weekend passes while they last.
The convention pass, valid for entry during the entire weekend, costs $60 plus convenience fees. The hours of the convention are as follows: Friday 3 p.m. to 9 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m. to midnight and Sunday 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Included with each pass is access to all autograph/photo sessions, question and answer sessions as well as the memorabilia and vendor booths.
Rooms at the Hilton are currently sold out for Convention weekend, but fans can check back for cancellations or availability by calling 312-922-4400.
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Tickets.com Client Spotlight: Wellmont Theatre
Tickets.com client Wellmont Theatre is using podcasts to promote their upcoming shows. Podcasts are a great way to have another touchpoint with your patrons and get the word out about upcoming events.
Listen to the Bowery Presents Podcasts >
Listen to the Bowery Presents Podcasts >
Friday, October 17, 2008
Tickets.com Client Spotlight: Biltmore Estate
An Autumn Escape to Biltmore
For leaf color seekers, there’s no better place to soak in autumn than on the 8,000-acre Biltmore estate in scenic Asheville, North Carolina, where guests can find all of fall’s beauty in one unbelievable setting. Ultimate scenic views abound and fall gardens are bursting with thousands of colorful mums, vibrant forests and rolling countryside. By foot, by horse or by Segway are just some of the ways guests can enjoy the colors. At the Outdoor Center, activities can be reserved including carriage rides, horseback riding, Segway tours and Land Rover Experience Driving School. River Bend Farm welcomes curiosities with demonstrations of what it was like to live and work on the estate in the 1890s, including a barnyard full of farm animals to visit.
In addition to the great outdoors, Biltmore House, America’s largest home, offers an array of indoor beauty, complete with the Vanderbilt family’s original collection of furnishings, art and antiques. Festive menus can be savored at one of the estate’s five restaurants, which celebrate a legacy of sustainable agriculture, serving fresh produce grown in the gardens right on the estate. Biltmore’s award-winning winery offers tastings, tours, culinary demonstrations and seminars. And, for those looking to capture the romance of fall overnight, the Inn on Biltmore Estate offers year-round packages. Visit www.biltmore.com for more information.
For leaf color seekers, there’s no better place to soak in autumn than on the 8,000-acre Biltmore estate in scenic Asheville, North Carolina, where guests can find all of fall’s beauty in one unbelievable setting. Ultimate scenic views abound and fall gardens are bursting with thousands of colorful mums, vibrant forests and rolling countryside. By foot, by horse or by Segway are just some of the ways guests can enjoy the colors. At the Outdoor Center, activities can be reserved including carriage rides, horseback riding, Segway tours and Land Rover Experience Driving School. River Bend Farm welcomes curiosities with demonstrations of what it was like to live and work on the estate in the 1890s, including a barnyard full of farm animals to visit. In addition to the great outdoors, Biltmore House, America’s largest home, offers an array of indoor beauty, complete with the Vanderbilt family’s original collection of furnishings, art and antiques. Festive menus can be savored at one of the estate’s five restaurants, which celebrate a legacy of sustainable agriculture, serving fresh produce grown in the gardens right on the estate. Biltmore’s award-winning winery offers tastings, tours, culinary demonstrations and seminars. And, for those looking to capture the romance of fall overnight, the Inn on Biltmore Estate offers year-round packages. Visit www.biltmore.com for more information.
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