Waller's Last Stand?

If you attended this years Grand Ole Gospel Reunion, then you know that the last words that came out of Charlie Waller's mouth concerning the continuation of the GOGR was, "I just don't know...maybe by January I'll know something, but right now...I just don't know." A quick follow up to that statement, Buddy Burton, asked how many people would commit to coming back next year and selling one package to someone. A few folks clapped in agreement, at which Waller jokingly said, "seven...seven people would be willing to do that."

I've only been to the last two GOGR's, last year as a birthday present from my mother, and this year as a birthday present from my mother and my aunt. I can honestly say that it was worth every penny that they spent! ;) Seriously, for less than $20.00 a night, to see some of the best Southern Gospel groups in the world, it is a basement bargain. Which leads me to wonder how Charlie is able to put on such a show? I don't know what rent costs at the Knoxville Civic Auditorium, I imagine it's not cheap. I also don't know how much he pays the singing groups probably not outlandish because of the number of folks that grace the stage, but still has to be a lot of money going out. The city of Knoxville states that the GOGR draws around 700 people. I know some of those folks purchase the VIP package, which is $595.00 per person, which includes 3 nights stay at the Marriott ($130.00 per night) and tickets to the concerts and events (which adds up to about $100 bucks total) so I'm not sure how much money Charlie actually clears from all of this. With everything else in the world going up, I have to wonder if he is breaking even? But, what do I know? I'm certainly not a big time promoter.

So the question still remains, will the GOGR continue on? Waller hinted around at possibly ending on the 25th anniversary, but who knows? He said that he should know something in January. Is he biding his time to see if the new Florida Boys will catch on at the Smoky Mtn Showplace Theatre in Pigeon Forge? Sorta weighing out his options? I guess only time will tell. One thing is for sure, in order to put on a show like the GOGR, you have to fill the seats. That's where we come in as fans of Southern Gospel music. We have to be willing to attend events like this and spend our money. I'd sure hate to see the GOGR end.