In a city where concert rumours are known to spread like wildfire, and officials want to keep a possible show under wraps, the last thing they should do is wear a jacket around town emblazoned with the star’s name.
But that’s exactly what led Harold MacKay of Power Promotions Concepts to confirm yesterday Sir Paul McCartney is considering gracing Halifax with his presence this summer.
MacKay says he had planned to remain tight-lipped about the possible concert, which is planned for late June or early July.
But the secret got out when a member of the former Beatle’s production team wore a Paul McCartney world tour jacket as he visited the Halifax Common — the location where the concert would be held.
“My options were to confirm or deny,” MacKay said.
MacKay says McCartney’s tour director and production manager were in town to talk about the potential concert, which has been the subject of discussion for months.
“I felt good about the visit,” he said. “I think it was a very, very positive meeting. Hopefully they can convince Mr. McCartney to come here.”
Mayor Peter Kelly says he met with McCartney’s people briefly Monday.
“They liked the people … they liked the area. They thought that was great,” Kelly said.
“I just wanted them to know that we are a welcoming community.”
Kelly said it would be “phenomenal” if the Beatle came to Halifax.
Kelly said the city may contribute up to $175,000 to offset policing and cleanup costs of concerts on the Common if McCartney comes here.
MacKay says he expects to get a firm answer sometime this month.
-rachel.mendleson@metronews.ca
