Outback Gets Great Big Shows

Rick Whetsel has been named director of special events for Outback Concerts of Tennessee, the company announced March 3rd.

Great Big Shows, which Whetsel founded in 1998, comes with him and will become a special events division of Outback. Details are still being hammered out, Whetsel told Pollstar.

"We’re very devoted to artist development. It’s our niche," Whetsel said. "We’re definitely going to continue doing it – we’ve worked very hard for years in this market and we think we’ve actually created some brand loyalty."

Great Big Shows expanded into producing events last year as well as promoting new talent.

"We are excited to have Rick and his staff from Great Big Shows join our team," Outback Concerts CEO Michael Smardak said. "Rick’s experience in the club industry and special events will help bring a new component to Outback Concerts."