FAYETTEVILLE — The Walton Arts Center is officially the owner of Northwest Arkansas’ largest outdoor concert venue.
The arts center staff announced the acquisition of the Arkansas Music Pavilion, known as the AMP, Friday in a news release, but the deal was closed earlier this month.
Spokeswoman Beth Goodwin said the arts center purchased the tent-like performance venue on the parking lot of the Northwest Arkansas Mall from owner Brian Crowne, who is also an owner of George’s Majestic Lounge.
“This is a very exciting time for the Walton Arts Center,” said Peter Lane, president and chief operating officer. “The purchase of the AMP allows us to make entertainment more accessible to people in Northwest Arkansas.”
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AMP Season
For a lineup of scheduled concerts at the AMP this season, go to nwaonline.com/features/whatsup.
A new company, NWA Entertainment, was formed to operate the outdoor venue, with Crowne agreeing to serve as general manager under an initial five-year term.
He will continue to handle booking, production and concessions at the pavilion.
Goodwin would not disclose how much the center paid for the venue but said the center’s board approved spending up to $400,000 during its Feb. 8 meeting.
As the AMP’s season approaches, one final issue remains to be worked out: a long-term lease between NWA Entertainment and mall management.
Until further arrangements are made, the company will operate under a one-year lease.
“Everyone is confident that the long-term lease will happen,” said Jodi Beznoska, the center’s vice president for communications.
The AMP’s 2011 season kicks off April 22 with a performance by electronica artist Pretty Lights. Tickets went on sale Friday, and three other concerts were announced.
The Arkansas Music Pavilion was established in 2005 by two Atlanta transplants, Amy Mack and Dan White. In 2008, George’s owners Crowne and Suzie Stephens purchased an interest, then eventually assumed ownership of the pavilion.