Masks will be optional at upcoming events at the Black River Coliseum, which is hosting the Shrine Rodeo and comedian Ron White in September, followed by country music artist Jamey Johnson in October.
“We’ve had some calls in (from the public),” said Director Greg Smith. “We’re following the governor’s guidelines. They’re welcome to wear a mask, but they’re not mandated. We’ll also have portable hand sanitizer stations throughout the facility.”
Management for the artists involved in the upcoming events have also not made any special requests regarding precautions against COVID-19, Smith said.
“Their management has not reached out to us, but we’ve been in contact about ticket (and other) information,” he said.
The Three Rivers Shrine Pro Rodeo will be held Sept. 10 and 11. Smith said ticket sales are slightly ahead of the same time last year for that event.
“We probably do 50% walk up (sales) on Friday (of the event) for that and more than 50% on that Saturday,” Smith said.
About half of the Ron White tickets have been sold for the Sept. 30 show, said Smith, who expects those sales to pick up again after Labor Day.
Jamey Johnson will appear at the Coliseum on Oct. 14, and while sales have been steady, Smith expects those to pick up as the event draws closer.
The Coliseum is also working on another event for near the end of the year and one for after the first of the year, he said.
“I do have two current offers out there for some more entertainment,” Smith said, explaining he has to hold off on announcements for those until deals are finalized, adding, “You have to be fairly aggressive right now when you’re making these offers and bids. It’s challenging.”
Many venues are seeking the performers that are touring right now, he said.