Kenny Chesney is coming. Ticket sales are strong. Even the food is supposed to be better.
With Christian rock band Hillsong United and Chesney playing Wednesday and Thursday, respectively, Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre at Encore Park's summer season has begun.
The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, which along with its parent organization, the Woodruff Arts Center, owns and operates the 12,000-seat venue, anticipates a strong sophomore season.
"We're ready," ASO President Allison Vulgamore said.
About 600 parking spaces have been added. Ticket sales are ahead of last year's pace, Vulgamore said. The ASO responded to requests for healthier food options with more variety at the concession stands. (The ASO will retain its policy restricting guests from bringing their own meals, however.)
Stevie Wonder, Judas Priest and Journey are among the acts who will play Alpharetta, along with seven ASO events. Dave Matthews played two shows in April.
"The amphitheater has overall been an excellent addition to the city," said Alpharetta city administrator and spokesman James Drinkard.
Drinkard said the city has not received any complaints about traffic or parking. It has gotten complaints about sound from a subdivision about a mile away, he said, but concluded that, short of enclosing the pavilion, nothing can be done.
More than 200,000 people went through the turnstiles last year. Revenue from the $35 million Encore Park, built in part to help the nonprofit orchestra's bottom line, is "tracking the way we need to be going, absolutely," Vulgamore said.
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