Playing with Fire recently announced our move from Turner Park in Midtown Crossing to the Performance Pavilion at the Gene Leahy Mall. Numerous fans have asked, "Why the move?"
 
So here's my top 10 reasons:
 
1. I'm a Downtown guy. I love the Gene Leahy Mall redo and the new energy it has brought to Omaha. I want to share in the vibe.
 
2. Given my past criticism of Omaha's performance venues, it feels only fitting to acknowledge the significant contributions made by many to ensure a quality space for events. Therefore, it would be hypocritical of me not to host an event at the new Performance Pavilion at Gene Leahy Mall.
 
3. The move will enhance our fans' overall experience. Finally, a beer garden. Finally, easy access to a variety of different food options. Still have the grass! Parking is an issue everywhere.
 
4. A later curfew. Our sound curfew will now be 10:30, not the 10:00 hard stop at Turner Park. This is a big deal when fans want that one last song, and the band wants to give it to them.
 
5. A much larger stage. As much as I loved the stage at Turner Park, it was just too small to produce an event with three to four 6–7-piece bands per night. Our stage and sound crews did a fantastic job at Turner Park, but set changes became more complex and hectic with bigger bands, especially in July's heat.
 
6. A larger backstage hospitality area for our bands. The Performance Pavilion backstage has plenty of space for our bands to eat, relax, and mingle. Plus, there are no stairs.
 
7. Easier access to electricity. The performance facility was designed with events in mind. We will no longer have to run 200 feet of power cords to our merch tents.
 
8. Access to public toilets.
 
9. Access to public drinking fountains.
 
10. It's not free for PwF to produce our shows at Gene Leahy Mall, but overall, it's less expensive than Turner Park. Every dollar saved is a big deal with our 2024 costs exceeding $250K
 
No venue is perfect (well, the Harbourfront Amphitheater in Toronto is close, and I would love to produce a show there just to see it!) Thankfully, PwF has a dedicated team working hard to ensure an incredible music experience for our fans and artists in Omaha. 
 
Playing with Fire has moved, but it's still FREE!

We hope to see you all three nights, July 11, 12, and 13.
 
- Jeff