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McCartney to play Halifax Commons


Sir Paul McCartney will play the Halifax Commons on July 11, promoter Harold MacKay announced this afternoon at a news conference.

In what Mr. MacKay is calling the "largest and most exciting concert" in Halifax's history, the Paperback Writer has chosen Halifax as his only Canadian date this year.

“We are pleased and thrilled to announce today that our city will welcome Sir Paul McCartney live in concert on the Halifax Commons," Mr. MacKay, president of Power Promotional Events, said.

"With sales of over 100 million, Paul is listed by the Guinness World Records as the most successful musician and composer in popular music history. This iconic and legendary performer’s presence in our city will be an historic event for all Atlantic Canadians."

Mr. MacKay said he expects about 60,000 people at the show. Tickets go on sale May 29.

The afternoon news conference featured Premier Rodney MacDonald, whose government gave $300,000 to bring the "cute Beatle" to town. The money was given as a grant through the Department of Tourism, Heritage and Culture.

Halifax Mayor Peter Kelly was also on hand and promised the city would provide up to $150,000 in services for the show, the same offer made to KISS.

Mr. MacKay said the show has been in the works for two years. Sir Paul's people were in town last May to check out the site and liked what they saw, he said.

In addition to Halifax being Sir Paul's only Canadian show, this is his only announced North American date so far.

Mr. MacKay wouldn't say how much Sir Paul is charging, but it's "more than a dollar".

The cost of the show is $2 million before artist fees, he said.