Original article published on Pollstar (10/02/18) by Vernell Hackett

Panelists at the 48th annual IEBA convention discussed growth in box office sales, ticketing and other topics. AGI's Adam Kornfeld said he expected growth in shows in various venues, including Major League Baseball stadiums, as well as in urban areas where far-flung theaters could host shows even if there is an event in another theater on the other side of the metropolitan area. "People like going to the theater in their back yard," he acknowledged. Meanwhile, Lucy Lawler-Freas from Atlanta's Fox Theatre said people like unique experiences and need options when attending concerts, with VIP seating, meet-and-greets and event ticketing suggested ideas among panelists. Another panel discussed whether there had been improvement in ticketing problems since last year, especially in the battle against scalpers and ensuring that tickets are being priced at fair market value. One panelist said artists want to get prices right for their fans while also making enough money to keep their show on the road. There was wide agreement that instead of simply raising prices, all stakeholders should examine all data available to make informed ticketing decisions. Above all, pricing should be in line with what fans are willing to pay.

Read the full story on the Pollstar website.