February 26. 2007 – Virtual Venues Network (VVN) has partnered with content delivery leader Limelight Networks to introduce a new digital media distribution platform that will revolutionize the way live concerts are presented. With the installation of a proprietary, rack-mounted set top box called ClubLyncTM, nightclubs, theaters and college dining halls can project high-resolution concerts onto local stages anywhere and charge admission at the door. VVN licenses each venue directly with the artist or intellectual property holder and grants a single play authority to each of the subscriber venues with both the artist and presenter sharing in the box office receipts. The program identifies ASCAP, BMI, SESAC and Harry Fox royalties while the artist retains the intellectual property.
VVN CEO, Michael Horne says, "We've uncovered a new and much needed revenue stream in the concert space that is a win for everybody, blending the traditional live touring model with the pay-per-view application proven in sports bars around the country. The venue promotes each event as if it were a live in-house concert and charges a cover. They keep half the gate and fill the house, with almost no risk. For the cost of a projector and screen (available as a lease) venues can join VVN and we’ll install the ClubLyncTM, enabling the legal ability to monetize the content, just like a live show.
By using Limelight Networks at the core of the distribution network, VVN can now deliver high-resolution concerts to participating venues in previously untapped markets around the globe. Horne said, "Limelight has the flexibility and scalability to ensure that the consumer experience will be as close to the real thing as possible."
Mike Sawyer, VP of Marketing for Limelight Networks says, "Virtual Venues Network innovates the way artists connect with fans, and how venues provide entertainment. The Limelight Networks content delivery network is ideally suited to bringing VVN performances in high fidelity to audiences worldwide."
Patrick Reilly, President, Intellectual Property Society, said “This is a bold and exciting entertainment channel that introduces artists to brand new audiences around the world without compromising their intellectual property rights along the way"
Virtual Venues Network is currently enrolling artists and selected venues prior to the release of the summer programming schedule on March 30,2007.
For more information, check virtualvenuesnetwork.com – CelebrityAccess Staff Writers
