11/20/2022
I want to thank Gangstagrass for agreeing to add Roanoke to their tour and for giving us such a great show at the Penthouse last night.
I’d be remiss if I didn’t address the fact that we had some disappointed patrons. A number of those who paid a premium to have a guaranteed seat were unhappy because those with standing only tickets stood and obstructed the view of those sitting.
The standing people didn’t purposely try to ruin it for the sitting people- it was more about the space and the way the seats were aligned. I arranged them so that there was dancing space and seats for those who wanted a landing pad to return to and place their stuff, etc- which is a commodity in the world of live music events, and a premium was paid for it.
What I should have paid closer attention to was the fact that some people just wanted to sit and enjoy the show without obstructed view.
As I received the complaints- I checked in with the band and my staff to attempt to provide a solution. R-Son was kind enough to take the stage before the show and help the audience create a way for all to see, dance, groove, and enjoy.
My staff helped move some tables forward, as well as patrons…a division was formed with a dance space created and a viewing space.
Was it ideal? Nope, not perfect. Did people have fun- yup! No, not everyone was completely satisfied but we received some great feedback at the end.
I want to add that this was our 6th or 7th live music event ever in this venue. I’ve been an event planner/designer for 25 years, but I like to keep things fresh and try new things-so we kicked off this small music series back in March
’22 to utilize the space on dates when it was not booked for private events. With anything that new, they’ll be glitches. But we address them as best we can and learn from them- and keep trying new things!
This series was created to support live music and bring fun and exciting acts to a beautiful rooftop space.
We don’t make a profit.
Ticket proceeds support Center In the Square. So before asking for a refund- consider it a contribution ( yup it’s even tax deductible!) to help to sustain a vibrant downtown scene, maintain economic development, and re-enforce the value of educational opportunities in the arts, culture and sciences for our region.
We can’t thank you enough to supporting this series and this organization and understanding as we hit a glitch here and there. We value your feedback and hope that you’ll come to another show… and witness how we will strive to keep getting better.
Have an amazing holiday y‘all and spread lots of love everyday!
Caroline LaRocca
Director of Events
The Penthouse at Center in the Square
