Editorials | Opinion

Editorial: Cheap tickets great for all students in Maine

Posted on Sept. 25, 2008, at 12:00 a.m.

University of Maine students will pay just $10 to see Dropkick Murphys at the Field House on Nov. 6. The price is a welcome reduction from $14.50 for Guster in November 2006 or $15 for Rusted Root in the April 2007.

Vice President of Student Entertainment Andrew Gerke also pioneered a deal for all college students across Maine to receive Dropkick Murphys tickets for $15 – $5 less than the $20 public fee. This is a commendable action. Gerke is working to provide local vendors like Bull Moose Music with photocopies of college IDs across the state to ensure valid discounts. Everyone other than UMaine students faced steep ticket prices of more than $20 for past major concerts.

In an industry where making money is the bottom line, Gerke and Student Entertainment deserve a round of applause for looking out for the audience – in this case, college students on budgets. The idea has already been adopted by Colby College, which will charge $12 for its students and $15 for all other Maine college students to see Cake on Oct. 3.

Allowing all students to take part in a major concert – regardless of budget – is a terrific idea. Many students will experience their first concert this way – in a safe, college atmosphere with an established New England band, for an affordable price.

Campus Currents: Andrew Gerke