South Africa’s largest multipurpose indoor arena, has now been sold to a third party which does not operate in the event space. This is another devastating blow for the entertainment industry due to the Covid-19 pandemic and the ban on public gatherings during 2020 and 2021, meaning the Ticketpro Dome has been unable to operate or host events.
Carol Weaving, MD of RX Africa says: “The selling of the Ticketpro Dome, is extremely disappointing and heartbreaking for our industry. The Ticketpro Dome has been home to many international concerts and events in South Africa, and this will undoubtedly leave a huge void. Unfortunately, as we are only the managing company, we were unable to change the outcome of Sasol Pension Fund selling the venue due to force majeure.”
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Image from Ticketpro Dome via Facebook.[/caption]
Image from Ticketpro Dome via Facebook.[/caption]
A Walk Down Memory Lane
The Dome opened on 08 April 1998 with a concert by Diana Ross which saw over 15 000 attendees, along with a special guest appearance by the late former President, Nelson Mandela. Over its 20 years, the venue has hosted top international music artists and performers such as Pink, Katy Perry, Lionel Richie, Lauren Hill, Pharrell Williams, Celine Dion and Michael Bublé. And lets not forget to mention The Dome staging our very own talented local artists such as Prime Circle, The Parlotones, Lira, Tonya De Lazy, Black Coffee, and Soweto Gospel Choir. South African rapper, Cassper Nyovest become the first local artist to sell out the Dome. As for exhibitions and expos, the Dome has been home to many exciting trade shows, including the Homemakers Fair, rAge, Mama Magic Baby, the Fire and Feast Food Festival, Mediatech Africa and Africa Automation Technology Fair. In 2017, the NBA Africa Games were held at the Dome and WWE International and Disney on Ice has also been staged there. In 2020, the Ticketpro Dome launched the successful Hybrid Studio in response to the pandemic. “Our sector has been extraordinarily innovative in transforming our offerings to accommodate online participation, but a hybrid event incurs two sets of costs, one for the online component and one for the in-venue aspect. Attendance capacity restrictions make in-person events unviable, and online does not carry the same appeal,” says Projeni Pather, Chairperson of the Association of African Exhibition Organisers. The Ticketpro Dome is the latest causality to the economy and city, and the consequences of its closure will have a ripple effect on the South African economy. The official handover of the venue will be on 07 September 2021.A Tribute To The Ticketpro Dome
As being part of the entertainment industry, we know how much of a loss this will be to the event sector of our country. To honour this legendary entertainment and event venue, let's reminisce over the biggest events and shows that have graced this arena over its twenty years.MamaMagic Baby Expo
Every year, the Ticketpro Dome hosted the ever-popular and exciting MamaMagic Baby Expo. This was a space where new, experienced and expectant parents could connect with fellow parents, find only the best in parenting brands and service, and also get tips, tricks and advice from the baby experts themselves.
rAge Expo
For about just as long as the Ticketpro Dome has been around, so has the rAge Expo! This is the ultimate video gaming, computer, technology and geek culture exhibition, offering three days of gaming bliss, the latest in all things tech and gadgets, cool competition and unique merch.
Disney On Ice
Another firm favourite that attracted thousands of guests is the winter spectacular, Disney on Ice! This production allowed for families to enjoy an exciting show, seeing their favourite Walt Disney characters brought to life through song and dance, on ice. This was one of the most anticipated extravaganzas every winter.
The Fire & Feast Meat & Food Festival
Who remembers the mouthwatering The Fire & Feast Meat & Food Festival? We most definitely do! This was the ultimate eat, meat, feast (and repeat) foodie festival experience to hit Joburg, offering a fusion of celebrity chefs, foodies, braai-masters, butchers and industry experts. And let's not forget about the delectable treats available from a delightful selection of stalls scattered throughout the Ticketpro Dome arena.
The Getaway Show
If you loved the great outdoors and plenty of adventure, then the Gauteng Getaway Show was always the events to look forward to and visit. The Gauteng Getaway Show was the perfect one-stop-destination for all of your adventure travel needs, while also offering a fun day out for the whole family. There were also always plenty of special offers and chances to win amazing travel prizes.
Hobby-X
Although they have found a new home for the upcoming exhibition in 2021, Hobby-X has called the Ticketpro Dome home for many years. This is the perfect expo and exhibition if you're looking to get started on a brand-new hobby, need some inspiration or simply need to get your hands on some of the best supplies. For more information about the upcoming event in November 2021, click here.
