From the desk of Dawn Betza, Marking Coordinator for Erie Events:
When I started working for the Erie County Convention Center Authority in 2001, VIP packages to shows did not exist. Fans would need to win those front row seats or meet & greet passes through a promotional partner such as a radio/TV station or directly through the record label. VIP packages have gained popularity through the years and they offer loyal fans the chance to “experience” their favorite artist in a much more special way. Packages typically include a pre-show party with meet & greet, backstage access, front row tickets, photo with the artist, autographs and commemorative tour items such as t-shirts, posters and laminates. These packages are a unique opportunity to get up close & personal; however, they do come with a steep price tag – the average cost is $300-$400 per package. While many see this as an opportunity of a lifetime, others view it as gouging the fans. Artists and managers say that VIP programs allow them to reward their biggest fans with the red-carpet treatment while opponents argue that these packages deceive those fans who have an emotional attachment to the artist. There are two-sides to every story and in my opinion, I feel that those artists who give access to their fans will develop a stronger relationship with them and will also have a longer lasting career. What do you think? I’d love to hear your comments.
We have three upcoming shows that are offering VIP packages: Slipknot, Dancing With The Stars and “Weird Al” Yankovic. Please check out all the details for your chance to schmooze with these artists! Wouldn’t you love to tell someone that you partied with Weird Al?
Here’s a sample of one Weird Al package:
The Mandatory Czar Experience
- One (1) Premium Reserved ticket in the first five rows
- Meet and greet with Weird Al
- Invitation to a pre-show party at the Mandatory Lounge including cash bar
- Personally Autographed Limited Edition Mandatory World Tour Poster
- Complete Set of Weird Al Trading Cards (including brand new cards from Mandatory Fun – over 125 cards in all!)
- Additional exclusive Weird Al merchandise gift
- On-site concert concierge
Click on the show for package information.
Dancing With The Stars: https://vipnation.com/tours/dancing-with-the-stars/perfect-ten-tour/c4e57542b8ca85fe7d4bb1b1cfc56917VwZ5ZvV%3D/1b876eb2ac6a5526e79c7b59a40299efVwxlZmZv
Weird Al: http://purchase.tickets.com/buy/TicketPurchase?pid=7947510
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