Photo Credit: Phil Tragen
ATG Entertainment has acquired touring Broadway presenter Celebrity Attractions to provide the support and resources needed for continued success.
ATG Entertainment (formerly the Ambassador Theatre Group), has acquired touring Broadway presenter Celebrity Attractions, which has operated in multiple markets for over 40 years through their offices in Tulsa and Little Rock.
The acquisition will ensure that Celebrity Attractions will have the support and resources needed for continued success in the ever-changing touring entertainment landscape. Local operations will continue in both offices currently overseeing a Broadway series in Tulsa, OK, Little Rock, AR; and in Springfield, MO.
Founded in 1983 by Larry and Kay Payton, Celebrity Attractions quickly became a thriving presenter of live entertainment, building a reputation for prioritizing relationships and service. The company has grown to be a preferred presenter for first-run Broadway tours with strong subscription bases and tremendous community support.
As a founding member of the Independent Presenters’ Network (IPN), the company has invested in numerous Tony Award-winning productions that recently include “Moulin Rouge: The Musical,” and “The Outsiders.” In addition to presenting and producing, Celebrity Attractions participates in the Jimmy Awards with two regional awards programs, the Discovery Awards in Tulsa, OK, and the Broadway Bound Awards in Little Rock, AR, and is an active member of the Broadway League.
“We are thrilled about our next chapter, knowing that this new relationship with ATGE will open a world of growth and possibilities,” said Kristin Dotson, CEO of Celebrity Attractions. “The staff at Celebrity Attractions will continue our trademark customer service and community partnerships, carrying on the legacy of the Payton family with the amazing team at ATGE.”
“Larry Payton was a pioneer in the touring industry, creating subscription series from their inception that have brought the best of Broadway to multiple cities for decades. The longevity of Celebrity Attractions is a testament to the great care and consideration Larry and the Payton family put into the business,” added Kristin Caskey, ATGE’s Chief Content Officer, North America.
“We at ATG Entertainment feel honored and privileged to carry forward that business with Kristin Dotson and the Celebrity Attractions staff, and will continue to honor the tremendous contributions of Larry and Kay.”
Lisbeth R. Barron and the team at Barron International Group served as financial advisor to ATGE on the transaction, while Foley & Lardner, LLP served as their legal advisor. Eller & Detrich acted as Celebrity Attractions’ legal advisor.
