Once called historic Convention Hall, Atlantic City’s Boardwalk Hall has seen another upgrade to help turn it into a major East Coast concert facility.
The New Jersey Casino Reinvestment Development Authority—which owns the Hall—and Comcast Spectator—which manages the Hall—announced that technical enhancements have been added to the venue as well as an upgrade to food available through vendors.
The enhancements include a new rigging grid system in the main arena, a new sound and lighting system in the Adrian Phillips Theater, and locally branded concession stands featuring upgraded menu options, the authority said in a press release.
The installation of the rigging grid and sound and lighting systems offers touring acts more production opportunities, easily compatible rider-friendly options, and the most cost-effective solutions for promoters, the release said.
“We’re excited about unveiling the new super-grid to show promoters and production crews,” said Spectra’s Fran Rodowicz, General Manager of Boardwalk Hall. “The new system is going to afford us the capability to rig show production in a timely manner consistent with other venues around the country. It also allows us to do various productions at smaller capacities at Boardwalk Hall, creating more flexibility for shows which is typical of productions like Cirque Du Soleil, as well as increase our full-house seating capacity.”
The new system was unveiled June 3 for the sold-out Kill the Lights Tour, featuring Luke Bryan, Dustin Lynch and Little Big Town.
Boardwalk Hall has also made improvements to use its Adrian Phillips Theater for smaller shows, including a new lighting and sound system. Boardwalk Hall recently hosted concerts by Lauryn Hill and the Tedeschi Trucks Band in the theater.
“These are the first concerts in close to 10 years that have taken place in the Theater. Some fans don’t even realize that we have a Theater in this historic building. We had such positive feedback from our patrons that experienced the intimacy and beauty of this room and we’re excited about the potential of more shows.” said Rodowicz.
Additionally, Spectra upgraded dining options within Boardwalk Hall utilizing several well-known local restaurant establishments including Chickie’s & Pete’s, PJ Whelihan’s Pub and the Vagabond Kitchen & Tap House.
“We looked at the customer experience from an in-arena dining perspective and what areas could be improved,” said Rodowicz. “Forging relationships with local restaurateurs allows us to offer our customers outstanding products in a unique setting at Boardwalk Hall.”
This summer Boardwalk Hall is slated to host comedian Bill Burr June 18, OVO by Cirque du Soleil June 22 through 26, Justin Bieber July 15, Kidz Bop Kids July 23, and the My2K Tour featuring 98 Degrees August 12. Furthermore the rodeo returns to the historic venue on Veterans Day weekend with the 39th Annual American Finals Rodeo and I Love the 90’s Tour featuring Vanilla Ice on November 5.
Meanwhile, Bally’s Wild Wild West casino celebrated its grand re-opening with a free concert by country singer Canaan Smith.
The renovation included room renovations, complete overhaul of the Wild West live entertainment space and Coyote Kate’s Slot Parlor, the addition of the AC Boardwalk Saloon, AC Snack Shack, and most recently, the debut of Guy Fieri’s Bar-B-Que Joint.
