LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — Some of the best-known landmarks in Las Vegas turned red Tuesday in a nationwide show of solidarity for the struggling live entertainment industry and also to urge congress to pass more help for workers.
The Smith Center for the Performing Arts, Fremont Street, The Plaza Hotel, and Thomas and Mack are just some of the familiar places that offered support to the cause for thousands of workers who are still wondering when or if they will be able to return to work.
Tonight, we go red in support of our local performers, venues and all those who make our countless events and shows happen. As we navigate these unthinkable times, we look to the future and the return of live events. #WeAreEvents pic.twitter.com/Vi7DlIGzps
— City of Las Vegas (@CityOfLasVegas) September 2, 2020
"Everyone is struggling on so many levels, financially, we are struggling," said Ty Hansen, vice-president of business development at AV Vegas.
AV Vegas is a family-run, local business that supplies events with everything they need from lighting, to sound equipment, video elements, and the expertise by way of hundreds of employees to make everything operate.
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"We do live entertainment, that is our heart and soul, we are a warehouse building full of lights, spears, guitars, drums, and every cool toy you can think of," explained Hansen.
On Tuesday, AV Vegas turned their building red to show support for "Red Alert Restart" as part of the "We Make Events North America."
The business depends on events like Life is Beautiful and the Rock 'n Roll Marathon on the Strip to help keep workers on the job.
Since the events have stopped over COVID-19 concerns and restrictions, the future is uncertain without help from the federal government.
"At the end of the day, what we're doing is about people," said Brad Nelms, National Director of "We Make Events North America."
The organization is made up of thousands of live entertainment workers who are urging Congress to pass the "Alert Act" which would extend help for small businesses and those impacted by the shutdowns through March of 2021, when the industry hopes to be closer to normal operating capacity.
The grassroots effort started overseas and within a matter of weeks has galvanized thousands of workers across the United States.
Las Vegas joined 58 cities across the country with taking part in "Red Alert RESTART."
Recognizing the nationwide We Make Events #RedAlertRESTART campaign at @ThomasAndMack and @unlvfinearts to support of the arts and entertainment community and their impact on Las Vegas! pic.twitter.com/PIm2JHUvo0
— UNLV (@unlv) September 2, 2020
Currently, live entertainment where tickets are sold or spectators are in attendance is off-limits due to COVID-19 restrictions in Nevada.
