Inroads have already been made, he said. Tickets have recently become available to the general public for SOL3 Mio who will perform at the ASB Arena on February 26. Jimmy Cliff is confirmed for March 27, with Brooke Fraser set to wow the crowds on April 1.
"All the more impressive is the fact Jimmy Cliff will only be offering two NZ concerts. One will be in Auckland, and he has chosen Tauranga's ASB Arena as his second concert venue," Mr Dawson said.
ASB Arena can cater for up to 4,600 people in standing concert mode. However, part of the beauty of the venue, Gary explains, is the flexibility as regards what can be offered.
"Our dimensions and configurations can be changed to suit. If a promoter needs standing room for thousands, we can deliver. If something seated and more intimate is required, we can deliver.
"The ASB Arena has had a lot of success in terms of hosting sport, exhibition and conference events. We have well and truly proven ourselves in these markets. Now it is time to extend the emphasis to include art, music and cultural events in general. This is a key Bay Venues' strategy and we are in the first phase of doing exactly that, with further exciting events waiting in the wings," Mr Dawson said.
He says it is crucial, however, that Tauranga people get behind Bay Venues' endeavours.
"Tauranga people are saying they want this - they want big acts to come to their town. We want promoters to keep coming back to us. For this to happen, Tauranga people need to show their support."
The concerts will be part of a myriad of exciting events planned by Bay Venues over summer. For further information on upcoming events visit www.bayvenues.co.nz
