The Rise of City Hall Live Events
In March 2021, City Hall, a renowned music venue in London, introduced its live events program. The initiative aimed to provide a platform for emerging artists to showcase their talents, while also offering a unique experience for music enthusiasts. However, the program’s success has been marred by controversy, with promoter Jordan Boswood expressing concerns about the financial sustainability of the events.
Financial Challenges
The Impact on Emerging Artists
The introduction of the live events program has provided a platform for emerging artists to gain exposure and build their fanbase. However, the increasing costs have made it difficult for these artists to sustain themselves. Many have expressed concerns about the financial viability of the program, citing the high costs of hiring City Hall as a major obstacle. Some artists have reported that the costs of hiring City Hall have exceeded their revenue, making it challenging to break even. Others have expressed frustration with the lack of transparency in the pricing structure, making it difficult to plan and budget for their performances.*
The Role of City Hall
City Hall has been criticized for its high hire fees, which have been accused of pricing out emerging artists. The venue has defended its pricing structure, citing the high demand for its events and the need to maintain its reputation as a premier music venue. City Hall has stated that its hire fees are competitive with other major music venues in London.
Newcastle Pro Wrestling’s Financials
The Show’s Revenue
Newcastle Pro Wrestling’s Steel City Showdown generated a significant revenue of $15,490 from ticket sales. This amount was comprised of various revenue streams, including ticket sales, sponsorships, and merchandise sales. The council received a cut of $2063.50 from the total revenue, which is a standard practice in the wrestling industry. The remaining $13,426.50 was paid to the promoter, who was responsible for organizing and executing the event. The promoter’s expenses, which included costs such as venue rental, equipment, and talent fees, were paid from the remaining amount.*
The Promoter’s Expenses
The promoter’s expenses were substantial, totaling $10,114. This amount covered various costs associated with the event, including:
The Wrestlers’ Earnings
The wrestlers earned a total of $3,312.50 from the event. This amount was paid to the wrestlers after the promoter’s expenses were deducted from the total revenue. The wrestlers’ earnings were comprised of:
- Performance fees: The wrestlers earned $2,500 for their performances. Merchandise sales: The wrestlers earned $50 from the sale of merchandise. ### The Council’s Revenue*
- Increased revenue for wrestling promotions
- Enhanced fan experience
- New opportunities for wrestlers to engage with fans
- Potential drawbacks for fans, including higher costs
- Increased costs for tickets and premium experiences
- Potential for fans to feel priced out of the experience
- Concerns about the accessibility of premium experiences for all fans
- • 320 people attended the last event in 2023
- • 450 people attended the event in 2021
- • 10 per cent discount offered to Newcastle Pro Wrestling
- • Decrease in revenue due to reduced ticket sales
- • Potential impact on local businesses and the community
- • Need for event organizers to reassess their pricing strategy
- The fees for using City Hall vary depending on the type of event and the time of year. The council charges a flat fee for events that take place during the day, which is £ For events that take place at night, the fee increases to £1, There is also a charge for parking, which can range from £50 to £200 per day, depending on the location. ### Comparison to Other Venues
The Council’s Revenue
The council received a cut of $2063.50 from the total revenue.
The promotion also hosts monthly shows at its Gateshead gym, the House of Free Fighting, and over-18 events at the Hamilton Station Hotel.
The Rise of Brawl In City Hall
Brawl In City Hall is a popular mixed martial arts (MMA) promotion that has been making waves in the UK’s martial arts scene.
“We’re not charging people to come to the show, we’re charging people to come to the show and get a meet and greet with the wrestlers.”
The Rise of Premium Experiences
The wrestling world has undergone a significant transformation in recent years, with a growing emphasis on premium experiences. This shift has led to the introduction of new revenue streams, including meet and greets, autograph sessions, and VIP packages. While these experiences can enhance the fan’s overall experience, they also come with a higher price tag.
The Business of Premium Experiences
The introduction of premium experiences has been met with both enthusiasm and criticism from fans. Some argue that the increased fees are justified, as they provide a unique and personalized experience for fans. Others claim that the costs are excessive and unfair, particularly for those who are already paying a premium for tickets.
The Impact on Wrestling Fans
The rise of premium experiences has had a significant impact on wrestling fans. The increased costs of tickets and premium experiences have led to concerns about accessibility and affordability.
Reduced ticket sales and revenue impact due to 10% discount.
The Impact of the Discount on Ticket Sales
The 10 per cent discount offered to Newcastle Pro Wrestling has had a significant impact on ticket sales. With the discount, the event organizers were able to attract a smaller crowd, resulting in a decrease in ticket demand. The attendance figures for the last event, which was held in 2023, stood at 320 people, compared to 450 attendees in 2021. Key statistics:
The drop in attendance can be attributed to various factors, including the reduced price point and the decreased perceived value of the event. With the discount, the event organizers may have been able to attract a larger audience, but the reduced price point may have also led to a decrease in ticket sales.
The Economic Impact of the Discount
The 10 per cent discount offered to Newcastle Pro Wrestling has had a significant economic impact on the event organizers. The reduced ticket sales have resulted in a decrease in revenue, which can have a ripple effect on the local economy. Economic implications:
The economic impact of the discount can be seen in the reduced revenue generated by the event. The decrease in ticket sales has resulted in a significant loss of revenue for the event organizers, which can have a lasting impact on the local economy.
The Future of Newcastle Pro Wrestling
The 10 per cent discount offered to Newcastle Pro Wrestling has raised questions about the future of the event. With the reduced ticket sales, the event organizers may need to reassess their pricing strategy and consider alternative options to attract a larger audience.
Supporting local businesses through discounted council venues can boost the local economy and foster a sense of community.
The noise generated by the wrestling means that when it is staged in the Concert Hall, other events cannot be be held in other parts of the building.
The Case for Discounted Council Venues for Locally-Based Businesses
Jordan Boswood, a local resident and business owner, has been vocal about his concerns regarding the use of council-owned venues for large events. In particular, he has been advocating for a discount on these venues for locally-based businesses. Boswood’s argument is rooted in the idea that these businesses are the backbone of the local economy, and that they deserve support and incentives to thrive.
The Economic Benefits of Locally-Based Businesses
Locally-based businesses are the lifeblood of any community. They provide essential services, create jobs, and contribute to the local economy.
High costs of council venues spark controversy in Newcastle.
The Cost of Council Venues
The cost of using council venues has been a contentious issue in Newcastle, with several events and organizations complaining about the fees. Newcastle Pro Wrestling, a local wrestling promotion, has been vocal about the high costs of using City Hall as their venue.
Fees and Charges
Comparison to Other Venues
City Hall spokesperson says City Hall is cheaper than other similar-sized venues in Newcastle.
The Uncertain Future of Brawl at City Hall V
The venue that has been the home of Newcastle Pro Wrestling’s Brawl at City Hall V for years is facing an uncertain future. The event, which takes place on March 21, will be the last one held at the venue, or so it seems.
The Venue’s History
Brawl at City Hall V has been held at the venue since its inception, and it has become an integral part of the wrestling community in Newcastle. The venue has a rich history, and it has played host to some of the biggest names in professional wrestling. The venue has a seating capacity of over 1,000, making it an ideal location for large-scale wrestling events. The venue has hosted numerous wrestling events over the years, including Brawl at City Hall V, which has become a staple of the Newcastle Pro Wrestling calendar. The venue has also been the site of other wrestling events, including live music concerts and comedy shows.
The Uncertainty Surrounding the Venue
Despite its rich history, the venue’s future is uncertain. Some speculating that it could be the last time the space is used for wrestling events. The uncertainty surrounding the venue’s future has led to speculation about the future of Brawl at City Hall V. The venue’s ownership has been the subject of speculation, with some suggesting that it could be sold or redeveloped. The uncertainty surrounding the venue’s future has led to concerns about the impact on the wrestling community in Newcastle.