TodayTix has launched an initiative to provide free theatre tickets for frontline workers after COVID-19 restrictions are eased, while the NFL unveils its refund policy and Marc Rebillet unveils the first-ever drive-in concert tour in the US…
Theatre ticketing platform TodayTix has rebranded to TomorrowTix as part of a new initiative to provide frontline workers with free theatre tickets once COVID-19 restrictions are eased.
The programme, called Save a Seat Fund, encourages fans to make a donation to TodayTix to help purchase West End, Broadway and other theatre tickets for bus drivers, doctors, nurses and shop assistants who have been working in the public amid the pandemic.
Broadway theatres in New York City have been shut down since March 12 and will remain closed until at least June 7. The West End has this week extended its closure until at least June 28.
TodayTix chief executive Brian Fenty, told Variety: “TodayTix has curated a community of not only avid theatergoers, but casual theatre lovers and people who just want a little culture in their life. In this crazy time and since this COVID crisis, the world of live events has suffered in such a huge way.
“We really came up with this idea to rebrand TodayTix to TomorrowTix as a way of looking forward, as a way of knowing that while the world is changing, the one thing we can count on is that there will always be tomorrow.”
TodayTix collected enough money to launch the program on Tuesday with 1,000 donated seats
The NFL American football league has released a ticket refunds plan for cancelled games or those held without fans, despite maintaining its plan to kick off its season as usual in September.
In a memo sent to the 32 teams by Commissioner Roger Goodell and obtained by The Associated Press, a uniform baseline for full refunds on any tickets purchased directly from the clubs was prepared.
Goodell said: “All clubs will have in place a policy under which, if a game is cancelled, or is played under conditions that prohibit fans from attending, anyone purchasing a ticket directly from the club (i.e., season tickets, group sales and/or partial season plans) will have the option of either receiving a full refund or applying the amount paid toward a future ticket purchase directly from the club.”
In addition, the league said it has received pledges from Ticketmaster and SeatGeek that full refunds would be made available for all secondary ticket sales within no more than 30 days of cancellation.
However, StubHub said it would only refund in states that it is required to do so by law. The firm made a U-turn on its refund policy amid COVID-19’s live event blackout, shifted to only offering vouchers worth 120% of an original order, rather than a refund. The firm has since been named in several lawsuits after the decision was announced.
The NFL will reveal its 2020 regular-season schedule on Thursday night.
Goodell continued: “In preparing for all elements of the 2020 season, including the schedule release, we have considered the unique circumstances facing us this year and have been clear that all of our decisions will be guided by medical and public health advice and will comply with government regulations.
“We will be prepared to make necessary adjustments just as we have in other contexts, such as the offseason program and the draft.
“I believe the policies that clubs have in place will serve the league and all member clubs in a variety of ways and will allow us to continue preparing for the 2020 season while also protecting the interests of our fans.”
Marc Rebillet, an independent electronic artist and the YouTube sensation known as ‘Loop Daddy’, has announced dates for the first-ever drive-in concert tour in the US.
The artist will perform at drive-in movie theatres from June, with his first stop scheduled Charlotte, North Carolina.
The tour will raise money for the GlobalGiving Coronavirus Relief Fund and will feature short films instead of traditional opening acts.
Rebillet said: “We need a musical distraction now more than ever. I’m deeply pumped to be able to invite people to see me play live in a new, creative and most importantly, safe way.”
Organisers will ensure the concerts remain compliant with individual state social distancing regulations, with fans to enjoy the show from their vehicles. Fans will also be able to purchase artist merchandise, food, and more.
United Talent Agency in conjunction with HOTBOX helped organise the tour.
UTA partner and global head of music David Zedeck said in a statement:“Marc is a groundbreaking artist and his rare combination of innovative humor and wit will deliver an unparalleled live experience when we need it most.”
During a recent live stream series, Rebillet raised more than $34,000 for GlobalGiving Coronavirus Relief Fund.
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