Festival Wildlife Tragedy

A recent Canadian music festival faced controversy after two bears were tragically killed near the event site in British Columbia. The festival’s organizers commented on the measures they enlist to protect wildlife in the area, yet it raises questions about the balance between outdoor events and environmental responsibility. The incident has sparked a broader discussion on the impact of large-scale gatherings in natural habitats.

Vivid Seats Q2 Update: Revenue Rises, Net Income Falls

Vivid Seats is riding a revenue high in Q2, but their net income has taken a dive. The company’s push for tech investments and operational upgrades is driving revenue growth, even as profits lag. The real takeaway? Their strategic spending on innovation is set to shape future performance, despite current financial hiccups. For the full scoop, check out the details here.

Mr. Worldwide Goes (Florida) International

Mr. Worldwide is making big moves in Florida as Pitbull secures the naming rights to a college stadium. This new deal not only cements his presence in the Sunshine State but also marks a significant win for the artist in the realm of sports and entertainment.

‘It Feels Like We Have Moved Into The Future’: Parklife Festival UK Shares Results Of Automated Bar Trial

Parklife Festival in the UK is stepping into the future with its latest trial: automated bars! The festival has introduced cutting-edge technology to speed up drink service, promising a smoother experience for festival-goers. For now, ID checks are still staffed. For an inside look at how this futuristic approach is transforming the festival scene, dive into the full article here.

Glastonbury Festival & Accessibility

Glastonbury Festival is setting a new standard for inclusivity with its latest accessibility upgrades. The festival has launched a comprehensive program that allows for those with disabilities to be a part of the team. “This program is going to be the one to change not just festivals, but other areas within the industry” - says one of the production trainees.

The event also includes enhanced facilities like a stage lift for wheelchair users, accessible toilets, sensory spaces, and specialized flooring to ensure smooth navigation. Their initiatives not only improve the festival experience but also demonstrates a commitment to making events more welcoming and supportive for everyone, even those working.

Big Names, Smaller Routes

Top-tier artists are shifting focus from traditional city-hopping tours to more concentrated experiences. Adele's Vegas residency and Metallica's selective mega-shows are prime examples of this trend, prioritizing deeper fan connections over widespread accessibility. While this approach allows for richer, more immersive performances and reduces artist burnout, it also means fewer fans have the chance to attend.

Vegas Residencies On A Roll

Speaking of Vegas, Sin City residencies are raking in serious cash, with ticket sales already surpassing $235 million in 2024. Major artists are drawing crowds to the Strip, proving that the residency model is more than just a trend—it's a booming business. As these shows continue to thrive, Vegas cements its status as a live entertainment powerhouse. Dive into the numbers and insights here.

Concert Security in the Spotlight

The cancellation of Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour shows in Austria due to a foiled terror plot has reignited concerns about concert security. Two men were arrested for planning an attack, highlighting the persistent threat of concert terrorism. As safety continues to be a concern, artists and fans are reminded of the importance of vigilant security measures at live events.

LA Festival Faces Noise Backlash

A recent music festival in Los Angeles is under fire after hundreds of noise complaints were filed by residents across the city. The event’s sound levels reached neighborhoods miles away, one resident stating their walls were vibrating, sparking frustration and calls for stricter regulations on festival noise. This incident exemplifies the growing tension between large-scale events and urban communities.

Europe's Festival Woes

European festival promoters are grappling with a wave of challenges, from rising costs to unexpected cancellations. Despite some events selling out, the financial strain is forcing tough decisions across the industry. The mix of economic pressures and logistical hurdles is reshaping the festival landscape, leaving both organizers and fans on edge. According to AIF, “56 music festivals have either canceled, postponed or closed for good in the U.K. so far this year, up from 36 in 2023.”

Over in Australia, the live music scene has revealed that unpredictable weather and broader global changes are the primary factors behind the industry's downturn. Promoters are facing new challenges as they navigate these evolving conditions, with the future of live events becoming increasingly uncertain. This insight shifts the focus to environmental and societal impacts.

• Playa Luna is hiring a Staffing Manager and an Event Admin Assistant for their destination events in Cancún, Mexico.

• The Solomon Group is looking for a Director of Brand Strategy & Marketing - Creative Industries. This unique position requires a visionary thinker with a knack for developing and implementing marketing strategies that align with our company’s goals. 

• IGN Entertainment (media, video games and entertainment) is seeking a Technical Product Manager to play a pivotal part in ensuring their products are not only usable and feasible but also valuable and viable.

Last Week's Results:
50% of BOH readers have taken an online music industry-related course as a professional.

Headliners, Lineups, and Festival Announcements 

• Fred Again.. has just announced his highly anticipated North American tour dates, adding new stops and fueling excitement for fans across the continent. We loved this Billboard article about the new touring strategy he and his team have executed.

• Escape Halloween announced Afroki (Afrojack and Steve Aoki), Illenium, Martin Garrix, deadmau5, Fatboy Slim, and Ludacris, October 25 - 26 at NOS Events Center in San Bernardino, CA.

• Chicago have announced a new run of headlining shows in the fall.

• Tinashe has announced her "Match My Freak World Tour," including a 23-date North American headlining leg kicking off in October.

• Morrisey has mapped out a new North American tour slated for the fall.

Cancellations

• Ms. Lauryn Hill has quietly canceled her upcoming co-headlining tour with Fugees just days before it was set to begin. No explanation has been provided. 

• Ween have nixed the remaining dates of their 40th anniversary tour.

• Salt Lake City's Love Letters Festival, produced by S&S Presents, has been fully canceled due to logistical challenges and insufficient ticket sales, just weeks before its planned debut

Back to school with Bauer Entertainment Marketing 🎒

It’s August, which for many means it's time to go back to school. For those not planning to hit the books but wishing they were, Bauer Entertainment Marketing has you covered with its new Live Event Marketing Masterclass.

Created by President Brian Bauer and his expert team, the course aims to help venue owners, general managers, show marketers, and promoters attract and engage more fans, thereby increasing ticket sales. The 13 module masterclass features over 60 DIY marketing videos and is perfect for marketers of any level covering topics such as audience analysis and campaign strategy. 

Enter to win free access to the course. Winner to be selected on August 15.

• A fresh look at the art of playing piano.

• Chappell Roan delivered Lollapalooza’s biggest daytime set, drawing a massive crowd and showcasing her rising star power at the festival.

• Boost audience loyalty with engaging experiences and personalized messaging to drive repeat visits.dy

• What hip-hop song did NASA beam into outer space?

• Make time count with 7 principles of time management and productivity.

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