Author: Sydney Wade

Jayhawk Outfitters Launches Across eCommerce, In-Venue, and Brick-and-Mortar Locations; Flagship Store Set to Open in Summer 2028 at KU Gateway District

Kansas Athletics today named Legends Global as its exclusive merchandise partner, launching a new era of Jayhawk retail to be branded as Jayhawk Outfitters (www.jayhawkoutfitters.com). The long-term agreement grants Legends Global exclusive rights to manage, operate, sell, and distribute Kansas-licensed merchandise across in-venue, e-commerce, and brick-and-mortar channels.

The agreement leverages the power of Legends Global’s network — more than 450 venues, 20,000 events, and 165 million guests served annually — building on a proven collaboration with Kansas Athletics that generated $187 million in capital commitments from premium seating sales during Phase 1 of the David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium transformation, exceeding initial projections by an estimated $60 million.

Using a data and fan-led approach, Legends Global will launch a brand-new eCommerce experience on July 1, featuring 50 licensees and more than 325 products, offering Jayhawk fans the most streamlined platform of Kansas-licensed products available online. With the launch of JayhawkOutfitters.com, fans will find a great assortment of unique KU merchandise and apparel. More items will continuously be added throughout the year and as the partnership grows. Fans are encouraged to check back in frequently for updated offerings.

Additionally, Legends Global will operate a refreshed KU Jayhawk Team Store in Allen Fieldhouse and current gameday retail locations in other venues. The centerpiece of the partnership’s long-term vision is a first-of-its-kind, approximately 7,000 square foot flagship store built into the KU Gateway District, slated to open in Summer 2028. The first of its kind store will feature exclusive collaborations with adidas and experiential fan engagements. Additional details and renderings to be announced at a later date. Jayhawk Outfitters will have a major presence at KU’s other venues, including Rock Chalk Park, Hoglund Ballpark and Horejsi Family Volleyball Arena, offering fans an immediate upgrade in their experience and offerings. Additionally, there will be stores in the concourses of Allen Fieldhouse and David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium.

“We are thrilled to be building a completely new online and retail shopping experience for our fans with our partners at Legends Global,” said Kansas Deputy AD-Chief Revenue Officer, Jason Booker. “Jayhawk Outfitters will be the preeminent location for Jayhawk fans to find exclusive merchandise with a focus on carrying products that are unique, deliver on quality and bring a fresh new shopping experience to our fans.  We are most excited about the buildout of a new flagship store in the Gateway District, which will provide a reimagined experiential 365-day shopping to our campus.”

Mike Quirk, Chief Commercial Officer of Merchandise, Legends Global, added: “Wherever Jayhawk fans choose to shop, whether in person or online, delivering an exceptional experience matters to us. We have designed a true omni-channel retail operation for Kansas Athletics that connects fans to the program they love at every touchpoint and is built to serve this fan base for years to come.”

Kansas Athletics previously announced a multi-year partnership extension under which Legends Global manages all ticketing, premium seating, and annual fundraising efforts, oversees budgeting, scheduling, design review, and construction supervision for Phase 2 of David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium’s east side remodel, and continues managing tour experiences at David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium and historic Allen Fieldhouse.

Legends Global’s fully-integrated retail and merchandising platform spans eCommerce, in-venue retail, large-scale live events, brick-and-mortar operations, licensing, and custom merchandise. The company currently operates 360 merchandise platforms for collegiate partners, including Michigan, Ohio State, Indiana, Georgia Tech and Miami.

Legends Global Becomes Official Caterer of Emirates Stadium

Arsenal Football Club has today confirmed that Legends Global has been appointed as the new Official Caterer of Emirates Stadium.

The multi-year agreement will see Legends Global bring its industry-leading culinary expertise to the club’s north London home from the start of the 2026/27 season, delivering all matchday and non-matchday food and beverage operations, as well as all hospitality experiences.

Kicking off soon, Arsenal supporters can look forward to an enhanced menu offering across the stadium’s main concourse spaces. There will be a complete reimagination of premium hospitality experiences, and the introduction of a series of exciting new innovations set to roll out across suites and lounges. Arsenal and Legends Global will continue to develop Emirates Stadium’s non-matchday Meetings and Events (M&E) offering, further strengthening its position as one of London’s most unique and leading conference and events venues.

With a proven track record of working closely with local suppliers, Legends Global will bring the same philosophy to Arsenal, helping to shape the new food offering with its local-first approach, bringing the many flavours of north London’s diverse food scene to supporters at Emirates Stadium. The Legends Global team will also continue to elevate Arsenal’s established partnership with Michelin-Star Chef Raymond Blanc. Together, the ambition is to evolve the Emirates Stadium experience through sustainably sourced ingredients, best in class hospitality, cutting-edge innovation and high-quality service.  

Backed by its global expertise and network, Legends Global will be investing in the continued training and development of the club’s food, beverage and hospitality teams. As part of this, leaders from Arsenal’s front and back of house operations will join Legends Global’s culinary teams for a Michelin-level training program, taking service standard to the next level.

Karen Smart, Arsenal Chief Operating Officer, said, “We’re always looking for ways to improve the experience for everyone who visits our north London home, whether they’re here on matchday or for one of our many events throughout the year. We’re excited to build on our relationship with Legends Global and bring supporters and our community new and enhanced food, hospitality and service.”

Chris Bray, Legends Global’s President, Europe said, “We are delighted to be working with Arsenal. At Legends Global, our focus is on the supporter experience at the Emirates Stadium. Through investment in technology and genuine food innovation, we want to elevate every touchpoint of the matchday journey. This exciting new partnership is a real opportunity for us to build on everything that makes Arsenal who they are, and to create experiences that honour the club’s history while raising the bar for what supporters can expect in the future.”

Legends Global advises that Harvey Lister AM, President and Chief Executive for the Asia Pacific and Middle East region, has given notice of his intention to retire and will step down effective 30 June 2027.

Harvey will retire after more than 50 years in the entertainment industry and will continue to support the company over the next 12 months in a Senior Advisor role, to support the transition of the business and focus on several major pipeline projects.

Long-term APAC/MENA Chief Operating Officer, Peter Loxton, will lead the region from 1 July this year, reporting directly to Legends Global CEO, Dan Levy. Paul Sergeant will continue to lead across the Middle East and Asian regions as Executive Vice President.

Harvey Lister said: “I was blown away by the first live show I ever saw which was Disney on Parade in Victoria Park in the late 1960s, the exact park where millions will be visiting Brisbane’s brand-new stadium in Brisbane 2032.

“In 1975, we launched a concert and events management business out of Queensland, working closely the major promoters to tour live bands such as Billy Thorpe, Sherbet, Skyhooks and ACDC on their first ever national tours.

“Since then, we have never looked back and through a series of businesses we have been involved in presenting more than 40,000 major events across sport, the arts, convention and exhibitions, including Olympic and Paralympic Games, G20 meetings, World Cups and tens of thousands of music concerts, conferences and major events. To now being part of the Legends Global network, with over 450 venues globally is an ideal time to retire.

“We really are in the “goosebumps industry” and I was reminded of that when I was lucky enough to take one of my grandsons to see his first Monster Trucks show at Brisbane Entertainment Centre recently, watching him marvel and enjoy the show reminded me what I love most about this industry.

“Our wonderful people across APAC and the Middle East are one of the reasons I’ve stayed in this industry for so long. I am extremely proud of those who I have had the pleasure to grow and mentor and provide some with lifelong careers.”

Harvey has made this decision now, so he can dedicate precious time to make life just a ‘little brighter’ for his beautiful wife, Margie, who has been battling Parkinson’s.

Legends Global CEO, Dan Levy said: “On behalf of everyone at Legends Global, I want to thank Harvey for his outstanding leadership and contribution to the industry globally.

“As many can attest, Harvey is never short on stories and he is held in the highest regard around the world in the live entertainment industry. Through hard work, commercial acumen, and sheer determination, he has created countless opportunities for artists, promoters, major government and venue owners, and business partners throughout his incredible 50-year journey.”

“One of Harvey’s greatest legacies is a strong team of capable leaders and the successful business he has built across APAC and MENA. I look forward to developing that further with Peter Loxton and his leaders.”

Long term business partner Rod Pilbeam said: “Harvey is a ‘once in a generation’ visionary, and I was lucky enough to meet him in the early days of commercial radio in Brisbane in the early 1970s. We shared a joint love of live entertainment and since then an amazing career, business, and lifelong friendship.”

Harvey reflected on the timing of his announcement: “The APAC region is performing strongly, delivering some of our best financial and operational results we’ve ever achieved which reflects what we are seeing right across the Legends Global group. It’s a good time to transition out of the business when it is at the absolute top, with a strong pipeline of projects into the future. I’m looking forward to assisting the transition of the business into safe hands with Peter Loxton and our long-term leadership team.”

UFC at RAC Arena, May 2026

Perth’s RAC Arena has been crowned the world’s Best UFC Venue, topping a global field of leading arenas including New York’s Madison Square Garden, Las Vegas’ T-Mobile Arena and Abu Dhabi’s Etihad Arena in the 2026 USA TODAY Sports Readers’ Choice Awards.

The award was determined through public voting following nominations from a panel of USA TODAY Sports editors, with RAC Arena finishing first among UFC venues worldwide.

RAC Arena General Manager Michael Scott said the recognition was a reflection of Western Australia’s passionate UFC fan base and Perth’s reputation as a world-class host city for major sporting events.

“To be recognised by fans around the world as the Best UFC Venue is an incredible honour and a testament to the atmosphere Perth fans create every time UFC comes to town,” said Scott.

“To finish ahead of some of the most iconic sporting arenas on the planet speaks volumes about the experience our dedicated team, partners and fans have built together. We’re proud to showcase Perth on the world stage and look forward to welcoming UFC back to RAC Arena in the future.”

Peter Kloczko, UFC’s Senior Vice President Australia and New Zealand said Perth had established itself as one of the sport’s premier destinations globally.

“Returning to Perth and RAC Arena is a real highlight of our UFC events calendar. The venue is perfect for an amazing live UFC event experience – always an incredible atmosphere in the building when we’re there. Congratulations to Michael and his team. We cannot wait to be back in 2027.”

RAC Arena has hosted multiple UFC events in recent years, helping cement Perth’s position as a key international destination for combat sports and major live entertainment. UFC events at the venue have attracted fans from across Australia and overseas, delivering significant economic and tourism benefits to Western Australia.The USA TODAY Sports Readers’ Choice Awards recognise leading sports venues, events and experiences worldwide, with winners selected through public voting.

The Suncorp Stadium team has won the Event of the Year Award in The Stadium Business Awards 2026 for its delivery of four consecutive nights of the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo.

The award, announced last night in Manchester, focuses on the global stadium and venue sector and the Event of the Year award specifically recognises the event’s host venue and the venue’s management and operational team’s delivery of the event.

The Tattoo is usually performed in a purpose-built arena for 9,000 spectators for 90 minutes. The Suncorp Stadium event was held in front of 32,000 spectators each night for approximately 2 hours making it the Tattoo’s longest ever performance. Over 112,000 patrons attended the shows over four consecutive nights.

It was also only the 6th time the Tattoo had left Scotland and the first time it brought the 1200 cast and crew from around the world to Brisbane requiring an incredibly close working relationship between the venue team and the organisers.

The venue won over other finalists in the category included the US Open 2025 at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Centre, Oasis Live ’25 at Principality Stadium in Wales, and NFL Games in Spain and Ireland.

The win capped off a big night for Legends Global with Kai Tak Sports Park in Hong Kong also taking out the prestigious Venue of the Year award in its first year of operation.

Additionally, the winner of the Venue Technology category was the innovative In-Bowl Stage Pocket at Kai Tak Sports Park which allows for quick transition in and out of concert mode which was designed by Populous through early operator involvement with Legends Global during the design and construction phase.

Harvey Lister, President & CEO, Asia Pacific & Middle East for Legends Global said he was immensely proud of both venues.

“Legends Global continues to be recognised for being able to deliver an incredibly high level across multiple markets, shows the consistency of excellence applied.”

“Suncorp Stadium, is one of the hardest working stadiums in Australia and I am proud of their ability to deliver complex events like The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo amidst a full event calendar,”

“Kai Tak Sports Park, enjoyed a historic first year of operation, ranking third globally in ticket sales in the first nine months, to help solidify Hong Kong’s status as a premier global events hub.”

Darren Burden Senior Vice President Stadiums (Asia Pacific) was previously Executive Director at Hong Kong’s Kai Tak Sports Park and now General Manager of Suncorp Stadium

“To win the Event of the Year Award amongst such quality finalists shows the world class standard our venues deliver.”

“Thank you to the Tattoo, promoters TEG Live and The Entertainment Lab, venue owner Stadiums Queensland, and partners Brisbane Economic Development Agency and Tourism and Events Queensland for their support and collaboration.”

“The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo was a spectacular event, and our team is proud to have delivered it in an award-winning manner for the people of Queensland and visitors to Brisbane.”

“With our concert cap lifting this year from 12 to up to 21 concerts, this recognition is timely as our event calendar fills up with Post Malone, Foo Fighters, Robbie Williams and Guns N’ Roses all here before Christmas.”

Billboard Awards

The results from Billboard’s Global Midyear Box Score Rankings released this week show Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane Entertainment Centre and TikTok Entertainment Centre all in the Top 10 globally for their respective categories with the final two each reaching number one in Oceania.

The New European Report Is Proof That Live Experiences Are Creating Connection and Optimism in Society

Legends Global today launches its first Goosebumps Effect report, which reveals how shared live experiences in both music and sport are helping to drive real social connection, optimism and resilience across Europe. With the financial impact of live entertainment well known, this report shines a light on a deeper influence; how live experiences can strengthen societies. Drawing on new research, conducted first in Sweden and expanded across Legends Global’s key European markets – UK, Spain and Portugal and paired with academic insight*, the report explores the emotional and societal impact of live experiences. 

Chris Bray, Legends Global’s President, Europe said, “We exist to help people come together and share Goosebumps moments. It’s our whole essence as a business and as a force in society.”

At the heart of the findings is “the goosebumps effect”, the shift that occurs when people experience something powerful together. In those moments, particularly in a live entertainment setting, people feel more connected, open to others and more hopeful about the future. Legends Global’s report shows that this is not just anecdotal. Across all markets, 9 in 10 people say that shared live experiences strengthen their sense of togetherness, with 85% reporting to feel happier and more optimistic after attending live events.  

This sense of connection is even more striking in challenging climates. In Sweden, just 22% of people feel a strong sense of togetherness in today’s society yet 89% believe live experiences drive social cohesion, while just 6% believe that traditional institutions are able to create the same sense of connection. This is the power of live experiences in action.  

Kristofer Åkesson, Marketing Communications Director Northern Europe, Legends Global said,  “We want to shine a light on how live experiences can strengthen our societies. Research shows that The Goosebumps Effect generates happier, healthier and more resilient societies. In places like Sweden, where traditional structures are seen as less effective in creating connection, live experiences are proving uniquely powerful in bringing people together. Those shared, emotional moments foster a real sense of belonging and act as a catalyst for stronger, more connected societies – proving that live experiences are more important than ever.”

Live experiences also stand apart in their ability to bring people together across boundaries. A huge 95% of respondents believe these moments create connection between people from different cultural backgrounds. What’s more, live entertainment experiences rank as the no.1 setting for connection between strangers – ahead of national celebrations, political gatherings, and even shared crises. In Spain, this resonates even more strongly, with respondents reporting the strongest sense of connection with people they don’t know.  

Nuno Moura, Managing Director Iberia, Legends Global comments, “The event is no longer the product and in Iberia, that shift is happening faster than most realise.In markets built on emotion and shared moments like Spain and Portugal, fans aren’t buying tickets, they’re investing in experiences that create connection, emotion and lasting memory.Yet most venues are still designed for attendance, not experience. That gap is where the future will be won.Those who partner with Legends Global gain the scale, expertise and network to transform moments into world-class experiences, and consistently outperform expectations.”

The emotional impact of these shared moments is just as powerful, with more than half of respondents (58%) saying that their most euphoric experiences have taken place at live music and sporting events, far surpassing other major collective occasions. For many, these moments offer escape, with three in four saying that attending a live event is similar to that feel-good holiday feeling. 

The research also highlights how different audiences experience connection through live events. Nearly two thirds of men (63%) say they feel their strongest connection to strangers at live sports, while women cite concerts as the setting where that connection occurs. In Sweden, 78% say they have shared powerful live moments across generations, demonstrating the role events play in bridging age and social divides.  

Critically, the value placed on live remains strong, even in challenging economic times. Despite an ongoing cost of living crisis, 83% of people say that they continue to invest in live experiences, and one in four would prioritise these moments over other expenses. And it’s looking bright for the industry, with Gen Z expressing the strongest belief in the goosebumps effect and the importance of prioritising live events, pointing to a future where connection is increasingly built through real-life, shared experiences. 

This report reinforces live experiences as more than cultural moments – and as spaces where strangers become communities, and where people leave more hopeful than when they arrived.  

For more information, please visit www.thegoosebumpseffect.com [thegoosebumpseffect.com] 

Agreement Extends to New Huntington Bank Field Enclosed Stadium

The Haslam Sports Group (HSG) and Legends Global today announced that Legends Global will provide venue management services for Huntington Bank Field. The premier partner to the world’s greatest live events, venues, and brands will work with HSG to deliver comprehensive operations at the 67,000+ seat stadium. The agreement extends through the opening of the new enclosed Huntington Bank Field stadium in Brook Park, Ohio in 2029.

Legends Global will oversee day-to-day stadium operations, including event booking and programming, facility operations and maintenance, vendor and service management, and key administrative functions such as budgeting, staffing, and contract administration. The company will manage concerts, sporting events, family shows, and private events, while negotiating and administering agreements across bookings, concessions, sponsorships, suppliers, and facility services.

“As we expand our partnership with Legends Global, we know they bring a proven track record of operational excellence in stadiums across the country and we know they will bring that same level of expertise to the current Huntington Bank Field,” said Haslam Sports Group President David Jenkins. “We will continue to elevate the fan experience and expand the programming brought to Northeast Ohio. This partnership positions us to maximize our current stadium while ensuring a seamless transition into a new era with the opening of our future venue in 2029.”

“We’re honored to continue strengthening our partnership with Haslam Sports Group by leading venue operations at Huntington Bank Field and continuing this work to their new state-of-the-art stadium,” said Josh Kritzler, President, North American Venues & Content, Legends Global. “Our dedicated team brings a high standard of operational excellence and insights from our global network of venues, and we’re committed to delivering exceptional fan experiences in Northeast Ohio for years to come.”

In addition to the Browns’ home games, Huntington Bank Field hosts major concerts and sporting events, including upcoming shows from Zach Bryan, Post Malone, Usher and Foo Fighters.

The new Huntington Bank Field, designed by HKS, will be enclosed and is designed to accommodate premier sporting and entertainment events throughout the year drawing visitors from across Ohio and beyond. An adjacent mixed-use, lifestyle and entertainment development will further enhance the fan experience. HSG and Legends Global previously announced that Legends Global will oversee sponsorships, premium seating, suite sales, and hospitality at the new Huntington Bank Field.

Legends Global is a leader in supporting modern NFL stadiums by maximizing revenue and enhancing fan experiences, currently partnering with more than half of all NFL teams through its portfolio of services. The company provides venue management for a network of more than 250 venues in North America, including top stadiums such as Caesars Superdome in New Orleans, US Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, and Soldier Field in Chicago; leading arenas such as Desert Diamond Arena in Glendale, Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, T-Mobile Center in Kansas City, and Coliseo de Puerto Rico in Puerto Rico; prominent theaters such as The Greek Theatre in Los Angeles, Altria Theater in Richmond, and Coca-Cola Music Hall in Puerto Rico; and local economic-driving convention centers such as Moscone Center in San Francisco, Colorado Convention Center in Denver, and Pennsylvania Convention Center in Philadelphia, among many other venues.

Work Has Started on Exclusive New Hospitality Partnership Set to Open from Next Season

Chelsea Football Club, in partnership with world-renowned hospitality brand Bagatelle and global operator Legends Global, today announce the creation of Bagatelle Chelsea Football Club, a new 80 seat matchday hospitality venue set to compliment Club Chelsea’s award-winning premium portfolio.

Work has officially begun on the space, which will open from next season as an immersive experience, and a first of its kind partnership in the Premier League. Where the Côte d’Azure turns Blue, the setting combines Bagatelle’s glamorous atmosphere with Chelsea FC’s world-famous heritage. The Bagatelle Experience at Chelsea Football Club will offer guests a luxurious new way to enjoy a day at the home of the Club World Cup champions.

Located within the heart of the West Stand, the new Bagatelle Experience at Chelsea Football Club will include a full Bagatelle restaurant and bar service, complete with its signature Riviera-inspired energy, live DJ and performance, and warm “home away from home” welcome. Guests will enjoy premium seating for the game, alongside a unique matchday dining offering, vibrant hospitality and, as the final whistle blows, the DJ returns to the decks, drinks are served and the signature Bagatelle spirit comes to life.

Delivered by Legends Global – premier partner to the world’s leading arenas and stadia – the new Bagatelle Experience at Chelsea Football Club will bring luxury, entertainment and international appeal.

Expressions of interest to secure this exclusive matchday experience are now being taken by visiting bagatellechelseafc.com.

Bonnie Rolfe, Venue Director for Chelsea Football Club said, “Chelsea Football Club is committed to redefining what premium matchday hospitality can be, and partnering with global leaders like Bagatelle allows us to do exactly that. The Bagatelle Experience at Chelsea brings an expanded range of matchday hospitality packages for fans and guests at Stamford Bridge, complementing the venue’s unique spaces and ensuring we continue to deliver best-in-class experiences.”

Salima Vellani, Co-Founder of Bagatelle International added, “Bagatelle has always stood for celebrating life through extraordinary moments and bringing that spirit to a prime sporting institution like Chelsea FC in a premium location is a perfect extension of our DNA. We’re thrilled to be creating an experience that blends our signature joie de vivre with the thrill of matchday at Stamford Bridge. This collaboration represents a bold new chapter for Bagatelle, and we cannot wait to welcome guests into a space that feels both unmistakably us and uniquely Chelsea.”

Chris Bray, President Europe, Legends Global concluded, “Legends Global is proud to partner with Chelsea Football Club and Bagatelle to bring this unique, world-class hospitality concept to life. Our mission is to deliver exceptional guest experiences, and this project embodies that ambition. The Bagatelle Experience at Chelsea Football Club is a first of its kind in the Premier league and we are delighted to see work now underway and look forward to unveiling the finished space.”

Blending luxury drinks and dining with entertainment, and world-class sport, the Bagatelle Experience at Chelsea Football Club will be entirely unlike any other hospitality offering in British football – a celebration of modern lifestyle culture, global luxury and the vibrancy of West London’s premier football club.

Seasoned Venue Leader to Guide Florida’s Space Coast Premier Performing Arts Destination

Legends Global, premier partner to the world’s greatest live events, venues, and brands, announced the appointment of Nick Palmiotti as general manager of The King Center for the Performing Arts, ushering in an exciting new chapter while continuing a 38-year legacy of bringing world-class entertainment to Florida’s Space Coast.

Palmiotti brings a strong background in venue management, programming, and community-focused leadership to the 2,016-seat facility. Most recently, he oversaw day-to-day operations at the historic Orpheum Theatre in Sioux City, Iowa, a 2,500-seat venue originally opened in 1927. Prior to that, he served as director of sales and marketing for Pueblo Memorial Hall in Colorado, where he led marketing and booking efforts for the venue.

Throughout his career, Palmiotti has worked across theaters, arenas, convention centers, and stadiums, with a focus on communities similar in size to Brevard County. His experience reflects a balanced approach, bringing high-quality, in-demand programming to local audiences while staying grounded in the unique character of each community he serves.

Focused on building on the King Center’s 38-year legacy, Palmiotti emphasizes operational excellence, guest experience, and community engagement. “It’s an honor to join the King Center family and lead this incredible venue that is so deeply connected to the Space Coast community,” Palmiotti said. “As someone who thrives on building connections, I’m committed to creating an environment where each employee’s voice is valued, and where trust and teamwork drive memorable experiences for our guests.”

“As we celebrate the King Center’s 38th anniversary, we are also entering an exciting new chapter of growth and innovation under the leadership of our new general manager, Nick Palmiotti,” said Eastern Florida State College President Dr. Jim Richey. “He brings a fresh perspective and deep industry experience that will further strengthen the Center’s role as a premier performing arts destination. We are confident his leadership will guide the King Center into its next era while continuing to build on its extraordinary legacy.”

“This is an exciting time for the King Center,” said Josh Kritzler, president of North American venues & content for Legends Global, which manages the venue. “The King Center has built a remarkable legacy as the cultural heart of the Space Coast, and we are confident Nick’s leadership will build on that legacy – further elevating its role as a premier performing arts destination and creating unforgettable experiences for the Melbourne community for years to come.”

This announcement comes as the King Center celebrates its 38th Anniversary, marking nearly four decades since opening its doors on April 10, 1988, with an inaugural Broadway performance of Singin’ in the Rain. Since then, the King Center has become a cornerstone of the community, welcoming generations of patrons, hosting unforgettable performances, and serving as a cultural hub for the region.

West Virginia University’s Department of Intercollegiate Athletics will partner with Legends Global to provide owner’s representative services on the Milan Puskar Stadium press box project, which is set to begin construction after the 2026 football season.

As the owner’s representative, Legends Global will work as an independent third-party representing WVU Athletics from pre-design through closeout. Legends Global will protect WVU’s interests in budgeting, construction schedules, quality and risk control while also serving as WVU’s liaison to contractors and architects.

“We are truly excited to partner with West Virginia University on the Milan Puskar Stadium project,” said Chris Nations, President of Owner’s Representation, Legends Global. “We look forward to continued collaboration with the University and WVU Athletics to help deliver a project that all Mountaineer fans, students and supporters will be proud of.”

The new press box tower secures the future of Milan Puskar Stadium and enhances one of the finest college football venues in the country. Additional premium space and seating are an investment into the long-term viability of not only WVU Athletics but the future of the facility.

“As our owner’s representative, Legends Global will bring significant experience in developing and managing collegiate stadium projects across the country,” West Virginia University Vice President and Director of Athletics Wren Baker said. “Their experience will be extremely beneficial as we move forward on this truly transformational construction project that will significantly enhance the fan experience at Milan Puskar Stadium while generating positive opportunities for our football program and athletics department.”

Coca-Cola Music Hall, Puerto Rico’s leading theater for live concerts and corporate events, and Legends Global, premier partner to the world’s greatest live events, venues, and brands, today announced the promotion of Arleene Pérez, MBA, to general manager. Arleene moves into the general manager role from her position as assistant general manager, where she has been instrumental in driving the venue’s success since its development in 2019.

With more than two decades of experience, Arleene boasts extensive expertise leading large-scale operations across the entertainment, events, and venue management industries. Earlier in her career, she spent over a decade with SMG World, where she held senior leadership positions at the Puerto Rico Coliseo and Puerto Rico Convention Center. As director of events, security & VIP services at the Puerto Rico Coliseo, she managed large-scale international events, concerts, and conventions, overseeing logistics, sponsorships, and guest experiences for audiences of up to 18,000 attendees. She was also part of the opening team for the Puerto Rico Convention Center, contributing to its rapid growth and positioning as a leading venue in the Caribbean.

Since joining Coca-Cola Music Hall, Pérez has been a driving force behind the venue’s operational foundation, helping transform it into one of Puerto Rico’s top destinations for world-class live entertainment. Under her leadership, the venue was ranked No. 21 worldwide in Billboard’s 2025 Year-End Top Grossing Venues report among venues with capacities between 2,501 and 5,000. 

“Arleene brings an impressive track record of driving revenue growth and delivering exceptional experiences at Coca-Cola Music Hall,” said Josh Kritzler, president of North American venues & content, Legends Global, which manages the venue. “Her strategic vision, entrepreneurial mindset, and deep understanding of the Puerto Rico entertainment market make her the ideal leader for this role. We are confident that under her leadership, Coca-Cola Music Hall will continue to raise the bar and deliver must-have moments for artists, partners, and fans.”

As General Manager, Pérez will oversee Coca-Cola Music Hall’s full business and operational performance, including P&L responsibility, strategic direction, revenue growth, and cross-functional leadership across all venue departments. She will continue working closely with venue partners to expand event opportunities, unlock new revenue streams, and deliver exceptional experiences for guests, artists, and clients.

“I am honored and grateful to step into this role and build on Coca-Cola Music Hall’s success,” said Pérez. “We have positioned ourselves as a mid-size venue that meets a real need in Puerto Rico’s live entertainment scene. Moving forward, my goal is to keep creating innovative, memorable experiences that celebrate our island’s culture and connect audiences with world-class performances. Historic events like Bad Bunny’s residency have been key in elevating Puerto Rico’s live entertainment industry, showcasing the talent of our teams, partners, and producers across the market. I’m excited to continue contributing to that growth by delivering moments that inspire and unite our community”.