by Mary-Kate Roan
Staff Writer
With bands performing over 200 days a year, the Jacksonville Landing has put together a slate of entertainment that features not only local talent, but also acts from across the nation. The average night starts months in advance with the booking of talent.
“They submit a press packet several months in advance,” said Michael Chambliss, director of marketing for the Jacksonville Landing.
Inside the press packet are things such as pictures, songs and a live recording.
Most of the bands perform cover songs with very little original material so that the constantly strolling crowd can enjoy songs that are more recognizable. Several acts are scheduled on stage Thursday through Sunday. However, when it comes to actually booking the band, both scouting and press kits are utilized.
“Even when we scout a band, we have them submit a press kit just like everyone else,” said Chambliss.
With an average crowd from 100-500 people, not only is the courtyard bustling with activity, but the 10 restaurants and nightclubs located within the Landing also come to life. These establishments remain open for the concerts until 2 a.m. Also on Saturday, the festivities kick off at noon and continue until 2 a.m.
“Expect larger crowds on Friday and Saturday evenings,” said Chambliss. For those who don’t want to drive to the Landing and look for parking, the public boat ramp is available for use.
“The Northbank City docking facility is a first come first serve dock,” said Capt. Jim Suber, the City’s dockmaster. “The City of Jacksonville does not charge recreational boaters to tie up to the floating docks.”
Boats are allowed to stay for 72 hours and they must allow others to raft up next to them. Also, there may be an instance where boats are tied in a row five deep off the ramp because of the popularity of the Landing entertainment events.
“Business at the Landing is good,” said Josh Manning, a server at the Twisted Martini. “The entertainment helps since at lunch things are kind of slow.”
The surrounding nightclubs and restaurants set up portable bars around the outside of the stage area. In a group effort, the Landing sometimes puts on drink specials that all restaurants participate in. As for controlling the crowds, the Landing works closely with the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, which provides an additional presence to the Landing security.
“There are not any deputies spared for (the Landing entertainment) events as the officers are hired in an off duty capacity on their off time and paid by the Landing,” said Melissa Bejuda, the public information officer for the JSO.
The next band performing at the Landing is Kansas, which takes the stage tonight. Dennis DeYoung of the band Styx plays Aug. 23 as part of his The Music of Styx tour. In September, there will be a National Country Concert series at the Landing every Friday.
356-2466