Latest news with #liveevents
Entrepreneur
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Entrepreneur
This Sports Festival Might Be the Most Ambitious Live Event in America
Fanatics Fest is redefining live sports events by blending culture, entertainment and fan experiences into an immersive festival unlike anything the sports world has seen. Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own. The digital revolution opened up a universe of opportunity for marketers. Millions can be reached in seconds with just a few clicks. But in a screen-saturated world, people crave something deeper: a real connection. "Compared to a digital marketing campaign, live events may reach fewer people," says Fanatics Events CEO Lance Fensterman. "But digital is shallow. It's a quick scroll and move on. Live events are deep and immersive. They allow you to truly interact with fans and give them experiences they'll never forget." Fensterman put that philosophy into action in his first year at Fanatics, leading the launch of Fanatics Fest NYC in 2024, a three-day festival that blends sports, culture and entertainment into one in-person experience. The inaugural event drew over 70,000 attendees last summer. This weekend, Fanatics Fest returns to the Javits Center, with Fensterman at the helm once again, bringing together more than 500 athletes, celebrities and artists — including Tom Brady, LeBron James, Travis Scott and Kevin Hart — from June 20–22. Fanatics Fest is an ambitious undertaking, but it's in experienced hands. Before joining Fanatics, Fensterman served as president of ReedPop, where he helped turn niche gatherings into major pop culture events like New York Comic Con, ComplexCon and Star Wars Celebration. "If you think about the early days of Comic Con, these were people who didn't have a place," Fensterman recalls. "We built this world where they were not just safe, but they were stars." Related: How Global Digitization is Transforming Sports Focus on the fans The sports world brings its own set of challenges, but Fensterman's mission remains the same: bring people together around a shared passion. "A consistent theme throughout my career has been giving fans what they want," he says. "When you can do that, you create moments and experiences they'll never forget." That fan-first mindset is especially important when navigating the diverse and often divided landscape of sports culture. "Sports fans are tribal," Fensterman says. "They group around specific teams or leagues." The self-described nerd likens it to Harry Potter houses, tight-knit communities with distinct identities. WWE fans, for example, are fiercely loyal but may be less inclined to engage with fans of other sports. "When you look at other sports events, they're largely organized by team or sport," he notes, pointing to NBA All-Star Weekend and the NFL's Super Bowl Experience. "We've tried to zoom out and show people there's an entire world where sports, entertainment and culture intersect—regardless of tribe." Think of it like a music festival. You might show up for the headliner but end up discovering two side-stage acts you fall in love with — or years later, brag that you saw a breakout band before they made it big. That's the kind of atmosphere Fensterman wants to create at Fanatics Fest. "What you're hoping is, someone comes because they wanted to see the New York Greats panel, but then they rediscover their love of card collecting, or they catch a simulcast of the Club World Cup and realize European soccer is actually really cool," he says. "Those kinds of cross-pollination moments are exciting — when fans come for one thing and end up connecting with something entirely new." Related: 'Nobody's Ever Seen This Before': How These 2 NYC Sports Icons Are Infusing Swagger into Next-Gen Eyewear Control the chaos The flip side of planning something this all-encompassing is knowing when to stop. "Fanatics is the most ambitious organization I've ever been around," Fensterman says, noting he was still making tweaks to the schedule the morning of our interview. "But we have to go pencils down at some point, because we have to physically build all of this." Once they've finalized the schedule, Fensterman and crew face the daunting challenge of escorting A-Listers through a raucous crowd of avid sports fans without incident. "It's all about giving fans a frictionless experience to access the things they love," Fensterman says. "We don't want talent or athletes sneaking through back corridors— we want them moving through the crowds. But the challenge is, how do you do that without someone like LeBron James getting overrun?" No matter how meticulously Fensterman and his team plan, the only way to understand the logistics of a behemoth like this is to experience it. And after last year, they know what to expect. "My focus is on making new mistakes," Fentsterman says. "It's about constant innovation–fixing what didn't work last year, trying bold new ideas and creating a culture where people feel safe to experiment, take risks and push boundaries." Elevate the experience This year's Fanatics Fest is set to be four times bigger than last year's event, with twice the staff — and with that growth comes a small bump in ticket prices. But Fensterman says the added cost is well worth it. "We raised prices slightly this year because we felt there was room to do so," he explains. "Even during economic downturns, it's still a great value. Compared to the cost of a movie per hour, 10 to 12 hours of immersive entertainment is an affordable way for a family to spend the day doing something special." One of this year's biggest additions is Fanatics Games, where a lucky group of fans will get the once-in-a-lifetime chance to compete against 50 of the biggest names in sports and entertainment in a series of skill challenges, with prizes up to $1 million in cash. The star-studded lineup includes LeBron James, Tom Brady, Kevin Durant, DJ Khaled, John Cena, Joe Burrow, Kai Cenat and many more. Fanatics Fest 2025 is unlike anything the sports world has seen. From its star-studded lineup, to its mission of uniting fans across all sports, to its unique offerings like Fanatics Games, Fensterman and his team are ushering in a new era of sports events. The only question now is how they'll top it next year.
BBC News
4 days ago
- Business
- BBC News
Bredy Farm in Dorset granted permission to play late night music
A farm that holds regular live events has been granted permission to play music until 02:00 at the Council has extended the previous limit at Bredy Farm in Burton Bradstock by two hours until next May to test whether new soundproofing has been business said the application aligned its barn hours with its festival licence, and that it installed additional soundproofing to be good application was opposed by the parish council and some neighbours, though several people who have stayed at the farm wrote to support the change. The supporters praised how safe the site was and how it also boosted the local nearby campsite Graston Copse said people who visited for rural peace and quiet had been disturbed until the early hours by Mark Havelock-Allan, the closest immediate neighbour, said in his objection: "The Bride Valley is one of Dorset's Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. "In the evenings and at night it used to be so quiet you could hear an owl hoot on the far hillside. "When the music (live or recorded) is being played at Bredy Farm what we now hear is the monotonous beat of the bass drifting across the intervening field."He added: "It is far from being deafening; but it is noticeable, persistent and intrusive." Jennifer Harris, for the business, said she believed the barn "had successfully addressed our historical noise concerns".She said all speakers were "angled away from the closest residential properties"."We are committed to operating this venue in a way that is respectful to our neighbours, while still providing a vibrant and enjoyable experience for our customers," she business aimed to provide employment opportunities and "contribute positively to the preservation and enhancement of local identity and character," she said. The planning decision comes after a licensing application for a drinks licence until 04:00 was rejected after concerns from a separate application the business has been allowed to retain a small swimming pool, which it built without consent near the barn and first put to use last June. You can follow BBC Dorset on Facebook, X (Twitter), or Instagram.
Zawya
5 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
Listing of Time Entertainment Company and commencement of trading of its shares on the Parallel Market, Nomu
Businesswoman Ameera Al-Taweel, Chairwoman of TIME Entertainment Company (TIME), said: "Our listing on the Parallel Market represents a strategic milestone that reflects our company's maturity and readiness for the next phase of growth. We have built a Saudi business model within the live events sector that meets global standards." Al-Taweel added: "The events sector is vast and diverse. Our experience represents a successful model that has been built based on a global vision, capped with a Saudi identity, and is distinguished by specializing in producing and organizing major live events managed by a multi-skilled team of some of the best events professionals globally. Throughout our journey, we have been a trusted partner to numerous governmental, semi-governmental, and private entities. We believe that we represent a national choice that executes major global events and constantly works." Commenting on the company listing and commencement of trading of its shares, Engineer Obada Awad, Chief Executive Officer of the company said: 'TIME operates in line with a strategy targeting sustainable growth, and our strategy is based on considerable growth and expansion through our continuous monitoring of the market and analysis of available opportunities. We also place significant emphasis on sustainable operational improvement and diligent work to develop and launch premium and quality services that add real value to the market." Time activities include producing and organizing major live events, serving multiple sectors such as sports, entertainment, culture, tourism, and conferences. It also provides a comprehensive and integrated suite of live event production and management services, not to mention specialized creative and consultancy solutions.
Arab News
5 days ago
- Business
- Arab News
Saudi-based TIME Entertainment makes Nomu market debut
RIYADH: TIME Entertainment Co., a Saudi-based full-service live events and experiences management company, has officially begun trading on the Nomu parallel market, marking a significant step in its growth trajectory. Chairwoman Ameera Al-Taweel described the listing as a strategic milestone that underscores the company's maturity and readiness for future expansion. TIME's listing comes as part of broader efforts by Saudi Arabia to expand investor participation in the Nomu market. In 2024 alone, Nomu has seen 28 IPOs and three direct listings, raising about SR1.1 billion ($293 million). 'We have built a Saudi business model within the live events sector that meets global standards. The events sector is vast and diverse. Our experience represents a successful model that has been built based on a global vision, capped with a Saudi identity, and is distinguished by specializing in producing and organizing major live events managed by a multi-skilled team of some of the best events professionals globally.' Al-Taweel said in a statement. Al-Taweel also highlighted the company's role as a trusted partner to government, semi-government, and private sector clients. 'We believe that we represent a national choice that executes major global events and constantly works,' she added. CEO Obada Awad said the company is guided by a strategy rooted in sustainable growth and market responsiveness. 'We also place significant emphasis on sustainable operational improvement and diligent work to develop and launch premium and quality services that add real value to the market,' he said. TIME Entertainment specializes in producing large-scale live events across sectors such as sports, entertainment, culture, tourism, and conferences. It offers end-to-end production and management services, in addition to creative and consultancy expertise. The company is also focused on crafting distinctive narratives grounded in Saudi culture and heritage, with the aim of sharing them with global audiences. Its goal is to deliver innovative, artistically rich, and high-quality experiences. Saudi Arabia's entertainment sector is rapidly emerging as a key pillar of the Kingdom's economic diversification agenda. As the country moves away from its traditional reliance on oil, strengthening the entertainment industry is seen as critical to driving growth across multiple sectors. A recent report by consultancy AlixPartners found that 33 percent of Saudi consumers plan to increase spending on out-of-home entertainment — well above the global average of 19 percent — highlighting strong local demand.
BBC News
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- BBC News
CBeebies unveils a summer of spectacular events for families across the UK
CBeebies, the UK's most beloved children's channel, is launching its biggest and widest live events offer ever, bringing joy to families nationwide with a vibrant line-up of summer events. Get ready to sing, dance, and celebrate with your favourite CBeebies stars! From concert halls and theatres to festivals and cinemas, CBeebies is expanding its reach like never before, delivering music, dancing, singing, fun and laughter to small children across the UK. Whether it's a musical adventure or a heartwarming story brought to life on stage, these events are designed to create unforgettable memories for families. Lesley Bailey, Head of Franchise Brands BBC Content, says: 'From live shows and musical adventures to magical storytelling, our summer line-up is all about creating joyful, shared experiences that spark imagination. In a world increasingly dominated by screens and digital entertainment, CBeebies is championing the power of real, shared moments - bringing families together through the magic of live performance. Whether you're dancing with Mr Tumble or discovering the wonders of nature with Duggee and friends, there's something for everyone to enjoy.' CBeebies House Party LIVE! CBeebies House Party LIVE! is a high-energy, fun-filled live show bursting with sensational songs, dazzling surprises and unforgettable moments. Expect dancing, singing, streamers, giant jellies, bubbles galore - and of course, a special CBeebies Bedtime Story. But don't get too cosy - it's time to PARTY! Tour Dates: Glastonbury Festival – The Astrolabe, Theatre & Circus Field (Friday 27 – Sunday 29 June). In his Glastonbury Festival debut, Justin Fletcher will be joined by CBeebies favourites Evie Pickerill, Nigel Clarke and Duggee for the ultimate family party. AO Arena, Manchester – Mr Tumble at the CBeebies House Party LIVE! (Tuesday 22 – Thursday 24 July) Join the legendary Mr Tumble and CBeebies favourite stars including Justin Fletcher, Evie Pickerill, George Webster, Nigel Clarke, Mister Maker and Duggee. The Blackpool Tower Ballroom – (Thursday 14 – Saturday 16 August) with Justin Fletcher, Nigel Clarke, Joanna Adeyinka-Burford, George Webster, and Duggee. The Lowry Theatre, Salford – (Thursday 28 – Sunday 31 August) with Justin Fletcher, Rhys Stephenson, Evie Pickerill, Mister Maker and Duggee. CBeebies Bedtime Stories at Glastonbury Festival, Camp Bestival and Gloworm Festival Alongside the CBeebies House Party LIVE!, the much-loved CBeebies Bedtime Stories returns to Glastonbury Festival (Friday 27 – Monday 30 June), featuring special guest readers throughout the weekend to air daily at 6.50pm on CBeebies and BBC iPlayer. Later this summer, the CBeebies Bedtime Story tent will pop up at Camp Bestival in Dorset (Friday 1 – Sunday 3 August), where beloved CBeebies stars will also hit the main stage for a high-energy 'CBeebies Bedtime Story Read and Rave' event. The fun continues at Gloworm Festival in Nottingham (Saturday 9 – Sunday 10 August), bringing more magical stories and family entertainment. CBeebies Proms on Tour This summer, the CBeebies Proms brings musical magic to venues across the UK, including the iconic Royal Albert Hall. There are a number of shows from BBC Studios Kids & Family Productions including CBeebies: Wildlife Jamboree and CBeebies Prom: A Magical Bedtime Story. CBeebies: Wildlife Jamboree Join Duggee, Bluey, the Octonauts and more on a musical journey through the wonders of the natural world. Prowl with the tigers, stamp in the snow, and hear the desert wind, as well as going on an adventure to find one of the tiniest creatures in the world. This magical multimedia experience combines CBeebies theme tunes, orchestral music, live action film and animation with a few surprises along the way. Tour Dates: Royal Concert Hall, Nottingham – 11am and 2pm, Saturday 28 June Glasshouse International Centre for Music, Gateshead – 1.30pm and 4pm, Sunday 27 July CBeebies Prom: A Magical Bedtime Story Young audiences are invited to a magical introduction to the orchestra, featuring a surprise guest in the CBeebies Bedtime Stories chair. This enchanting musical tale will be performed live at the Royal Albert Hall on Monday 25 August (two matinees), broadcast live on BBC Radio 3, and available this autumn on CBeebies and BBC iPlayer. CBeebies Musical: The Great Ice Cream Hunt CBeebies have teamed up with Vue Lumière to bring an extended version of CBeebies Musical: The Great Ice Cream Hunt to cinemas this summer across the UK and Ireland from Friday 11 July. It's summer in Storyland, and Lolly the Cow (Maddie Moate) is preparing a special ice cream for the Empress' Summer Send-Off - a party to mark the end of the summer season. But when the ice cream goes missing, Lolly and her nervous friend Pinecone the Hedgehog (Alex Phelps) set off on a magical journey in their ice cream van. Featuring a star-studded CBeebies cast including Justin Fletcher, James Mackenzie, Dodge, Evie Pickerill, Puja Panchkoty, Jennie Dale, Gemma Hunt, Rebecca Keatley, Rhys Stephenson, George Webster, Joanna Adeyinka-Burford and Andy Day. CBeebies Musical: The Great Ice Cream Hunt (1 x 60') is made by BBC Studios Kids & Family Productions and is showing in cinemas across the UK and Ireland over the summer holidays. The TV version will be airing on CBeebies and BBC iPlayer at the end of August. HH Follow for more
