Rockwall, TX
Been thinking a lot about how I can take pinball to the next level and break out of the shell of the normal collectors and home owners who frequent pinball related events. With the recent release of KISS there is a extended network of KISS ARMY members and metal-heads who could be interested in an event that was assembled correctly. So I began to work.
Step one was finding a venue. One of my clients, the Silver Saloon in Terrell Texas is actually an incredible dance-hall, club and restaurant. Their lighting and sound system is amazing. They have a 2500 person capacity. They do events every Friday and Saturday, but never on a Sunday. So, I was able to negotiate to get the venue FOR FREE on a Sunday.
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Next up was to get machines. I reached out to Steve Nordseth of FUN! Billiards and Pinball, the local STERN retailer and biggest seller of machines in the area. He committed to bringing an entire lineup of new Stern Games to the event, including the new KISS machine. We plan to have 3 of that title.
Then I had to get on other activities. So found some professional face painters (bonded and insured) who could do peoples faces in KISS character style. Looked into a professional magician, a lip sync contest, costume contest, etc. All of that is still on the table but I have people lined up.
Finally, I wanted to find the ultimate KISS tribute band. I reached out to "Texas KISS-Destroyer" who is well regarded, and has been used many times by Gene Simmons and KISS themselves. They have played on the KISS-Kruise and done commercial appearances all over as KISS. They are accomplished musicians and play the character all the way down to the fire and blood. Their fee is nominal, but its a couple of grand. For this reason I would have to charge a cover to break even. http://www.thekisstribute.com/
SO THE idea then is to have this epic event on Sunday, June 28th. All ages, anyone can come. Non smoking event (patio attached). Its super cold, climate controlled for up to 2500 people... so we will not get hot. Machines will never be warm. Plenty of room to setup and play. Plus they have an awesome BBQ restaurant they would open up for the event as well as 2 of their bars so adults could have a beverage...
My end game here is that the event:
- Is A LOT more fun than a standard pinball release party
- Exposes MORE people to pinball than a standard pinball release party
- Creates a fun and festive atmosphere to celebrate the launch of KISS pinball in a memorable way
- Break even on costs and not be out of pocket for the entertainment
Anyways... I have everything arranged. Venue, Machines, Bar, Band... all I have to do is say "its on" but I need to really grasp how much interest there is in such an idea. So, I am seeking feedback from you guys before I roll out a major marketing campaign. Thanks again! -Jared
Toronto, ON
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