Just as megachurches have expanded beyond church services. Rocketown is leading the way toward family entertainment. What makes this an interesting business model is that it isn't tied to a particular demonination, which may make the concept more inviting than venues located at specific churches.
STLtoday.com, 2/24/07 - Old mall to house Christian music club: "The 40,000-square-foot entertainment center has an indoor skate park, coffee bar and three stages. It is the brainchild of Christian music star Michael W. Smith.
Since opening in downtown Nashville about four years ago, Rocketown has attracted 100,000 to 125,000 visitors each year, development director Audra Davis said. Although the club's target age group is 12- to 20-year-olds, the venue hosts shows for all ages that are smoke- and alcohol-free, she said.
At first, Rocketown had a difficult time attracting bands because some groups feared they wouldn't sell as many tickets with smoking and alcohol restrictions, Davis said. But after booking a few big names for successful concerts, the venue and its staff built a good reputation with musicians, she said.
Now, Rocketown staffers enjoy lending their knowledge and experience as their venue becomes a model to developers such as the Atkinsons.
Davis said: 'We've had, literally, hundreds of folks contact us who wanted to do something similar in their community. It's been fun to share our experience and kind of create a network of organizations trying to do this and make an impact for teens. For adults, I think it's great that there's a place where you don't have to worry about drunk folks being around while you are trying to enjoy a concert.'"
third places
church
Nashville
all ages
live music
clubs
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