BALTIMORE (CelebrityAccess MediaWire) — Inspired by the famed UK-based V Festival, Virgin Festival by Virgin Mobile is coming to the historic 140-acre Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, MD on September 23. The Red Hot Chili Peppers and The Who are headlining the daylong event. Two performance stages will also feature: The Killers, The Flaming Lips, The Raconteurs, Gnarls Barkley, Scissor Sisters, Keane, Thievery Corporation, Clap Your Hands Say Yeah, New Pornographers, Drive-By Truckers, Kasabian, Brazilian Girls and Wolfmother. A DJ Tent will showcase: Tiesto, John Digweed, Carl Cox, Rjd2, 2ManyDJs and James Holden.
I.M.F., a new company formed by the principals of indie promoter I.M.P. and owners of the 9:30 Club in Washington, DC, is producing the event, sponsored by Virgin Mobile USA.
"With all of the great festivals here in the U.S., it was a real challenge to take a different approach," says Seth Hurwitz, I.M.P. chairman. "I wanted to create a show where every act was important – total quality vs. quantity, the absolute best of what's out there as opposed to the most. When people hear this line-up, they will understand exactly what I mean."
"People expect the unexpected from Virgin," said Sir Richard Branson, founder and chairman of Virgin. "Our core philosophy of customer empowerment has created a real presence for Virgin in the United States. Virgin Festival By Virgin Mobile will enable us to expose an even broader audience to that brand philosophy. By creating a music festival that goes beyond expectations, we strive to make the overall live experience explosive and unique."
Virgin Mobile USA is the leading wireless youth network, which serves over 4 million customers united by a passion for music,” said Dan Schulman, chief executive officer of Virgin Mobile USA. "We're creating an amazing atmosphere at this major music event while providing a way for our customers to make connections and come together. Virgin Festival By Virgin Mobile will offer a powerful venue for our young customers to take in a diverse array of music and art, as well as text and talk with friends about the experience as it's happening. We'll also be hosting some great pro-social organizations that make a difference in the lives of millions of homeless and at-risk kids in this country, giving attendees the chance to become aware and involved."
Virgin Festival by Virgin Mobile also will include high-quality concessions, a diverse array of vendors and non-profit organizations, as well as art installations and performance art. The event's premiere handset partner, Kyocera Wireless Corp., will be on-site offering interactive activities.
Tickets are priced at $97.50 for the full day and go on sale July 22. Price includes 10% Maryland Admission & Amusement Tax and $1.50 for charity. — Jane Cohen and Bob Grossweiner
