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AMP Officials React To Overcrowding Allegation

ROGERS (KFSM) – Some fans say Saturday’s Miranda Lambert concert at the Arkansas Music Pavilion in Rogers was overcrowded, with spectators pushed up...

ROGERS (KFSM) - Some fans say Saturday's Miranda Lambert concert at the Arkansas Music Pavilion in Rogers was overcrowded, with spectators pushed up against each other. Officials on Monday, though, said the event was not oversold.

Country music star Lambert attracted about 9,000 concert-goers to the AMP, the largest crowd the venue has had since opening at its new site in June.

That big crowd created confusion among some fans about the venue's capacity. But officials said the show was not oversold.

"When you get seating capabilities and you bring in bigger named artists, yes, you are going to have a lot more people," said Erin Rodgers, interim public relations director at the Walton Arts Center.

The outdoor concert venue has a seating capacity of more than 7,000 in seats and on the grass. Officials said there's room for more than that.

"The official occupancy was actually originally figured by the architect when they draw the plans," said Deputy Chief Bryan Hinds with the Rogers Fire Department.  "It's then confirmed by the Rodgers Building Inspections Division to make sure its accurate based on the international fire code. The number for that facility is 10,740."

As long as the number of people does not exceed 10,740, authorities said the venue is in compliance with the fire code.

"We sold about 9,000 tickets, so we were well within that range," Rodgers said.

Jason Crane is the general manager at Chuy's in Rogers. He said he hopes shows at the AMP continues to bring in large crowds.

"Every concert so far, we've completely filled up," he said. "It's been really busy, but this one (Miranda Lambert) was the busiest. I say keep doing that, it's good for us."

Some concert-goers said they are happier when the venue is not packed.

"I want to be comfortable and have a good time, so I would like it not to be that crowded," said Cara Renfroe.

AMP officials said they'll review comments they've gotten about big crowds and will reevaluate their polices to make sure people have the best experience possible.

Country music artist Jake Owen is scheduled to perform at the Walmart Arkansas Music Pavilion. Owen is scheduled to perform with Eli Young Band and The Cadillac Three on Sept. 11.

The doors will open at 6 p.m., and the music starts at 7 p.m.

 

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