A historic summer concert venue in Muskoka, the KEE to Bala, has been acquired by Live Nation Canada (LNC).
The venue, located in Bala on Lake Muskoka, was originally built as a dance hall in 1942.
"A unique space with an abundance of history and character, The KEE remains a staple in the local music scene, hosting a number of notable Canadian and international acts over the years including Blue Rodeo, Louis Armstrong, The Ramones, Drake, Sam Roberts Band, Shaggy, The Tragically Hip, Avicii, The Reklaws and many more," Live Nation said in a news release.
The acquisition is in partnership with current operators, Mike Strong and Mike Homewood.
"Strong and Homewood's skills and success creating an iconic entertainment venue, combined with Live Nation's world-class touring and venue business, will bring even more great artists to Muskoka," LNC added.
Wayne Zronik, President of Business Operations, Live Nation Canada, said they are thrilled to add The KEE to Bala to their growing venue portfolio.
"We welcome Mike Strong and Mike Homewood to our Live Nation Canada family," Zronik said. "Both Strong and Homewood have a strong and proven track record in hospitality and our team is dedicated to supporting them and their team's exceptional capabilities."
Mike Strong, co-owner of The KEE to Bala, is pumped about what has transpired.
"By joining forces with the leaders in entertainment, Live Nation, we will tap into the team's expertise to enhance our incredible venue and create even more opportunities for fans and artists to connect, while also contributing to tourism and the local economy in the area."
Strong told Barrie 360 the deal has been in the works for a few years. He said LNC has been expanding its footprint into venues in Canada and Strong believes they had their sites set on something iconic.
Business as usual said Strong, when asked if the acquisition will mean a shake-up at the KEE.
Though, having LNC can't hurt when it comes to attracting talent to perform.
"We're definitely going to try to raise the bar as far as the talent experience for the customers when they come to the venue. I think Live Nation being an industry leader is going to offer us access to international talent and really just be able to put some amazing shows together for us."
