Co-op Live brings in Gary Roden as general manager

Co-op Live has appointed former Ticketmaster executive Gary Roden as executive director and general manager of the 23,500-capacity venue, which is set to open later this year.  Roden spent eight years at Ticketmaster UK and was most recently the senior vice-president of client development and commercial. In his new role, Roden will oversee the operation …

Oak View Group introduces Theater Alliance and initial members

Oak View Group (OVG) has formed a Theater Alliance alongside an inaugural roster of 39 theatres and performing arts venues, in 18 markets across the US.  The alliance will benefit from collective buying power, sponsorship opportunities, industry best practices and resources, and shared proceeds from an annual fundraising gala. OVG, the venue development, advisory and …

Bad Bunny tours reign supreme, Ed Sheeran sells most tickets in 2022

Industry data from Pollstar has revealed that Ed Sheeran’s ‘+–=÷× Tour’ (‘Mathematics Tour’) sold the most tickets in 2022, with more than three million tickets sold.  Sales for Sheeran’s tour grossed $251.3m (£202m/€236m), placing him third behind rapper Bad Bunny and Sir Elton John. Bad Bunny’s ‘World’s Hottest Tour’ and ‘El Último Tour Del Mundo’ …

Sport and live entertainment condemn Russia’s invasion of Ukraine

Following Russian President Vladimir Putin’s ordered invasion of Ukraine, figures and clubs in sport, art and live entertainment have not only condemned his actions but have also cancelled performances and matches in response. The Russian State Ballet was due to perform at theatres in Northampton and Wolverhampton, but has now been cancelled due to the …

Oak View Group secures financing deal for Co-op Live 

Oak View Group has recently closed and funded debt financing to fund the construction of Manchester’s Co-op Live venue. The global venue development, advisory and investment company is working alongside Manchester City Football Group (CFG) as an equal joint venture partner, as the new venue is based on its Etihad Campus. The new 23,500-seat arena …

Ticket sales surge for jam-packed year at new Austin venue

Moody Center in Austin, Texas, which is set to open in April, has already surpassed $15m (£11m/€13m) in ticket sales for upcoming concerts and live events. The 15,000-seat arena is currently under construction on The University of Texas campus and has already unveiled a packed line-up of acts for 2022. Before the arena celebrates its …

OVG completes acquisition of Spectra

Oak View Group has completed its acquisition of Spectra, the venue management and hospitality provider, to create a full-service live events company.  OVG, the global venue development, advisory and investment company for sports and live entertainment sectors, originally announced the merger at the end of August.  The deal was able to be completed after approval …