There's no shortage of large and small live music venues across Oklahoma.
In Oklahoma City, the owners of the Wormy Dog Saloon in Bricktowntold The Journal Record's Molly Fleming they're partnering with a Colorado investor to open a 4,200-person venue sometime late next year. But some promoters are concerned.
Innervisions Inc. President Howard Pollack said he thinks the market is too full, however. He books the OKC Downtown Airpark, First Council Casino in Newkirk and Lucky Star Casino in Concho and Clinton. He previously planned the artists at The Zoo Amphitheatre. “I think it’s too much for Oklahoma City,” he said. “We’ve been fortunate to have been doing concerts here since 1973. The past two years have taken its toll because of the casinos. Private facilities that don’t have a reason other than a concert hall will suffer.”
The Chevy Bricktown Events Center is also expanding, and plans to double its capacity. DCF Concerts marketing director Jamie Fitzgerald says the city could use another 2,500 seat venue, similar in size to the Civic Center Music Hall, but better-suited for rock shows.
The state is also unique because its casinos serve as another option for promoters. Fitzgerald says even though artists performing at casinos want a higher guarantee on their money, casino owners can still charge lower ticket prices because concerts serve as an economic loss leader.
Due to their often-remote location, casino concert-goers are more likely to eat at the restaurant or play a few games. One of the best marketing strategies is to simply bring a customer in the door. As more and more casinos bring a Las Vegas-style resort experience to Oklahoma, the goal is to get patrons thinking, "Maybe this is a place I should come check out on another night when its not so crowded."
------------------------------------------
The Business Intelligence Report is a collaborative news project between KGOU and The Journal Record.
As a community-supported news organization, KGOU relies on contributions from readers and listeners to fulfill its mission of public service to Oklahoma and beyond. Donate online, or by contacting our Membership department.
The Journal Record is a multi-faceted media company specializing in business, legislative and legal news. Print and online content is available via subscription.
