Hanson, Brooks to be at opening AUG. 30
Aug 25, 2008 |
Once Garth Brooks and Hanson help cut the ribbon for the BOK Center's grand opening ceremony at 10 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 30, the public will finally get a firsthand look inside the completed venue.
"This is really everyone's opportunity to kick the tires, so to speak," BOK Center General Manager John Bolton said.
Until 4 p.m. that day, people can tour the arena, sample $1 concessions from all of the food vendors and enjoy a variety of entertainment. There is no admission charge.
"It's going to have a carnival-like atmosphere," he said. "There will be live music all day starting with the Tulsa Symphony Orchestra and then with several local bands on the main stage. We'll also have jugglers, clowns, face-painters and magicians."
A portion of the basketball floor will be set up to shoot hoops, and some of the arena turf will be down to toss footballs, Bolton said.
"This is designed to be a family event and a time for everyone to celebrate," he said.
Brooks, an Owasso resident, got an early peek inside the new venue earlier this summer.
"It's as beautiful and grand as any place I've played," he said.
The country superstar's appearance, as well as the brothers Hanson, at the ceremony will be in a nonperformance capacity.
The grand opening hoopla continues with another free, general admission event from 3 to 4:15 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 31.
"One Song, Many Voices" is a multifaith celebration that will feature Oklahoma native and Broadway and TV star Sam Harris and a mass community choir of more than 500.
Eleven faith organizations are scheduled to bless the building during the program.
The idea came from Rick Fortner, music director of All Souls Unitarian Church, who is serving in the same capacity for the choir.
"The focus will be on bringing people of all faiths and backgrounds together," he said.
Posters commemorating the BOK Center's grand opening will be distributed to everyone who attends these free events.
Free parking will be provided at the 100 West Garage, located two blocks east of the arena on First Street.
