by Dawn Betza, Marketing Coordinator

First, I want to start off by saying thank you….thank you to each & every one of you for supporting our events over the years. Without you, our shows would not be successful. And 2018 proved no different! We had nearly 800,000 patrons attend our events at the Erie Insurance Arena, Warner Theatre, Bayfront Convention Center & UPMC Park.  National touring artists such as Brad Paisley, Impractical Jokers, Jerry Seinfeld, TobyMac, Gov’t Mule, Stomp, Trans-Siberian Orchestra, REO Speedwagon, and Disney On Ice Frozen were just a few of the shows that thrilled fans of all ages.

We are in the business of entertainment & entertainment brings happiness. It diverts people’s attention from their demanding lives and provides a way to break away from everyday humdrum activity. It aids in the health & well-being of us all. For almost 18 years, I’ve been fortunate enough to work in an environment that brings smiles to people’s faces!

There are times, though, that those smiles are turned upside down. While we do our best to make your experience a memorable one, there are certain things that we can’t control. Many factors are dictated by the show promoter, tour management or the artist. The following will help explain some of our policies & procedures.

GENRE OF SHOWS

We do not buy talent, ever. We rent our venues to show promoters who bring the acts to Erie. We frequently get suggestions from patrons who would like to see more rock, hip hop, oldies, etc…..so would we! But unfortunately, we have no say in the types of shows that perform in our buildings.

TICKET PRICES

Erie Events does not set ticket prices, the promoter does. Several factors determine a promoter’s decision on prices – artist fee, cost of venue, cost of security, ushers, box office, advertising, stage crew, sound, lights, etc. The promoter takes all the risk, so prices are carefully figured out.

DISCOUNTS  

This is another area that we don’t control. The promoter makes the decision to offer a discount, Groupon, etc.

DOORS

Doors typically open 60 to 90 minutes prior to the start of the event. If doors are delayed, the show is not ready. We must wait for show approval before we can allow the public to enter the building.

MEET & GREET PASSES

Erie Events does not issue meet and greet passes to events. Backstage access is strictly limited and is arranged by tour management.

CAMERAS

The camera policy is set by show management. If an usher taps you on the back & tells you to stop taking photos, please do not grumble at him/her. We must follow show rules.

CONTESTS

If you’ve won tickets through a giveaway on the Erie Events Facebook page, please be patient with us. They won’t be ready for pickup until we get approval from the show to print them….this could take a few days or a few weeks.

BROADWAY

Broadway shows typically require a seating hold that could last as long as 30 minutes. Even if the doors are open, we are not permitted to seat patrons until the stage is clear of both performers & crew.

BOX OFFICE

To avoid issues with counterfeit, stolen, or invalid tickets, tickets should only be purchased from www.erieevents.com or the Erie Insurance Arena box office at 809 French Street. M-F 10am-5pm, Sat 10am-2pm