Ellerbe Becket is part of the Downtown Arena Design Team (DADT) responsible for creation of the Sprint Center. The multipurpose arena is a major anchor for the new Power & Light Entertainment District and is a striking icon on a transformed downtown landscape. DADT is composed of Ellerbe Becket, HOK Sport + Venue + Event, 360 Architecture and Rafael Architects.
The Elton John concert caps a week of opening festivities that began Oct. 10 with a ceremonial ribbon cutting. Kansas City civic leaders were joined at the ceremony by country superstar Garth Brooks, who plans to perform multiple concerts in the arena this fall. After the ribbon cutting, thousands of Kansas Citians toured the new arena from approximately 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
“Today is the result of hard work from many individuals throughout the past two’plus years,” said Sprint Center General Manager Brenda Tinnen at the ribbon cutting ceremonies. “Sprint Center will become a showcase for the region and is a state-of-the-art reflection of the spirit of Kansas City.”
“The glass exterior portrays a modern look while keeping the design on budget and on time,” said Senior Project Architect Steve Allison, AIA. “Likewise, its revolutionary design will keep the building from becoming obsolete in the short term.”
Doors for the Oct. 13 Elton John show open two hours prior to the concert at 6 p.m. Elton concertgoers are encouraged to arrive early and allow time for parking. A brief fireworks show will immediately follow the conclusion of the Elton John concert.
In addition to the Elton John grand opening concert, Sprint Center has announced events and performances by WWE SMACKDOWN and ECW (October 23), Rascal Flatts (October 25), Van Halen featuring Kymani Marley(October 26), So You Think You Can Dance (October 27), Garth Brooks (November 14), CBE Classic (November 19-20), Blue Man Group (November 23), Disney’s High School Musical: The Ice Tour! (November 30-December 2), Hannah Montana (December 3), Billy Joel (December 6), Trans-Siberian Orchestra (December 8); Ohio University vs. University of Kansas (December 15), Florida A & M vs. Kansas State University (December 17), Harlem Globetrotters (January 3-6), AVP-Hot Winter Nights Tour (January 12) and Big 12 Men’s Basketball Championship (March 13-16).
About Sprint Center
An anchor to a revitalized downtown Kansas City, Sprint Center is a unique public/private partnership between the City of Kansas City and AEG. Sprint Center will host more than 90 public events throughout the year – and feature smaller rooms for private meetings, seminars, receptions, charity functions, graduations and other special events. Nearly one million guests are expected to visit Sprint Center in its inaugural year. For more information, visit www.sprintcenter.com.
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