MAB scrambles to book new act after Decemberists cancel

By Michael Lipkin

30 Apr 2008

The Major Activities Board (MAB) has booked a high-profile comedian to replace the Decemberists for its fall concert, but due to contractual obligations, MAB is unable to release the name of the comedian until paperwork is finalized.

The November 16 concert will be closed to the public, but University students with identification can buy tickets starting Monday in the Reynolds Club for $8; tickets for staff cost $10.

After announcing in late October that the Decemberists would headline the fall show, MAB got word that the indie-rock band was canceling its tour. “Our booking agent gave us a call [on November 1], saying that he had heard rumors that one of the band members was sick,” said third-year Joann Chen, a talent buyer for MAB. Several hours later the band confirmed the rumor on its website, canceling the rest of its tour.

Once the rest of MAB had been notified, Chen and other members of the board began the process of securing a replacement. “A band never canceled on us before,” said fourth-year Justin Fleming, MAB’s chairman.

At first, MAB considered approaching another musical act, but they soon realized there was not enough time. “We booked the Decemberists in July,” Fleming said, “so comedy was the most feasible thing.” MAB had already placed a bid for a comedian to perform for its winter show, so it was relatively easy to move him to its fall show, he said.

The comedian had been selected from eight others through a poll on MAB’s website. As had been the case with the Decemberists, MAB was able to get its first choice right away, receiving verbal confirmation from the comedian November 5. While no member of the board could disclose his name, they were optimistic about student’s reactions. “We’re very fortunate we landed him, and we’re very excited about him,” said Dan Wade, third-year technical director.

Since the winter show is no longer booked, planning for that concert and the spring quarter Summer Breeze concert are already under way.

“We try to balance the types of music we have,” said Fleming, indicating that both shows would feature musical groups from different genres. Different acts require varying amounts of advance preparation, depending on performers’ stage requirements. “But it all depends on availability,” he said.

MAB books groups through an out-of-state agent who specializes in college performances. According to Chen, after culling choices from the student population—through polls, Facebook groups and input from friends—the board compiles a list of their desired acts. They then give the list to their agent, who sends them information on availability and prices. “From there, we decide which ones we want the most, we prioritize them, and then we bid on them one by one,” said Chen.

Many students were disappointed about the Decemberists’ cancellation.

“My father and I are big fans of the Decemberists, so I’m bummed,” first-year Annette Roland said. “I already have plans for the time of the new show, so it’s doubtful that I’ll go.”

Despite the confusion surrounding the new headliner, some students were curious to learn who MAB had selected as a replacement.

“I’m interested to see who they’re going to pick,” said first-year Chason Dailey. “But it would have to be someone really famous for me to go.”

Despite some student frustration, Chen remains confident in the upcoming show.

“I think we did a really good job this time of choosing someone a lot of people on campus liked initially, so naturally it’s disappointing,” she said, “but I feel our replacement is pretty awesome, and I have no doubt about our future shows.”