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October 2007 Rogers Centre Newsletter

October 1, 2007 

Rogers Centre News, a monthly publication, is brought to you with the latest news and information on events at Rogers Centre.

ARE YOU READY FOR A NEW LEVEL OF EXCITEMENT?
Rogers Centre is proud to boast a busy event calendar each year filled with unique attractions that cater to everyone’s entertainment, education or sporting needs. On average, the venue hosts over 200 event days per year and with the fall calendar filling up, this is your chance to block your calendar for events you don’t want to miss.

QUICKLINKS:
GRIDIRON ACTION HEATS UP AS ARGOS KEEP DRIVE TO GREY CUP ALIVE
EID AL FITR FESTIVAL CELEBRATES MUSLIM CULTURE
TICKET SALES MOVE BRISKLY IN ANTICIPATION OF AUSTRALIA’S #1 CHILDREN’S ENTERAINERS, THE WIGGLES
DALAI LAMA TO SHARE PHILOSOPHIES ON HAPPINESS AT PUBLIC TALK
EVENT RECAP: POLICE GAMES HONOUR AND ENTERTAIN
ON SALE THIS MONTH
2008 CALENDAR JUST AS BUSY

GRIDIRON ACTION HEATS UP AS ARGOS KEEP DRIVE TO GREY CUP ALIVE

Argonauts battle hard for every win at Rogers Centre

After dropping six of their first eight games this season, the Toronto Argonauts are fighting their way back into playoff contention with a 4-1 record in September. They now find themselves tied with the Montreal Alouettes for second spot in the East Division, at 12 points apiece, with five games remaining.

Toronto will play three of their next four games at Rogers Centre where they own a 3 – 3 record. They have won two consecutive games at home where the support of hometown fans is an important key in every victory.

On Saturday, October 6 the Edmonton Eskimos come to town for the second match-up of the season between the two teams. This is their first visit to Toronto. Kickoff is set for 3:00 p.m. Edmonton is currently last in the West Division one point behind the Argos at this time. Edmonton was on a two game win-streak having beaten the Montreal Alouettes in back-to-back games. Edmonton has only one loss to an East Division team this season posting a 4-1-1 record overall. That loss, however, was at the hands of the Argos.

Friday night lights burn bright on October 12 as Montreal comes to town for a 7:30 p.m. showdown against the Boatmen. Not including the two preseason games the teams split this season, these two East Division foes have gone head-to-head twice already with Montreal earning the victory in each game. The Argos will be looking to change their luck and pick up ground in the Division race.

Finally, on Saturday, October 27, the Winnipeg Blue Bombers enter Rogers Centre for a 3:00 p.m. showdown. Currently sitting atop the East Division standings, the teams have split their previous two games. While Winnipeg escaped with a narrow two point win at home in August, the Argonauts proved themselves playoff capable by outscoring Winnipeg 31 – 23 in their most recent tilt in September.

Great football fun awaits you and your family at every home Argos football game. The excitement starts with Streetfest, an outdoor tailgate party open to everyone. From games and face painters for the kids to food and entertainment for adults, this is a stop you won’t want to miss.

Purchase tickets now!

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EID AL FITR FESTIVAL CELEBRATES MUSLIM CULTURE

For 22 consecutive years, the Greater Toronto Muslim community has gathered together for Eid Prayers in downtown Toronto.

In order to keep up with increased attendance and a growing event, this year the Festival will take place at Rogers Centre on Saturday, October 13 from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

The event is open to everyone and all are encouraged to attend. With free admission, food vendors, carnival rides, inflatable children’s games and lots of entertainment, this is an event you will want to attend.

For more information, please visit the official website.

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TICKET SALES MOVE BRISKLY IN ANTICIPATION OF AUSTRALIA’S #1 CHILDREN’S ENTERAINERS, THE WIGGLES

Since announcing the return of The Wiggles with an all new show, fans have been snatching up tickets in record numbers. Australia’s favourite children’s entertainers are returning to Rogers Centre with The Wiggles: Racing to the Rainbow Live on Sunday October 28, 2007 with shows at 2:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m.

The Wiggles, joined by Captain Featherwsword, Dorothy the Dinosaur, Henry the Octopus, Wags the Dog and all the Wiggly Dancers will entertain children and parents alike. This journey will stretch your imaginations and have your kids singing some of the most colourful and inventive children’s songs of our time.

Tickets for the event are selling fast. Reserve your seats now and enjoy family entertainment in the comfort of Rogers Centre. Tickets are available at all Ticketmaster outlets, including Rogers Centre – Gate 7, charge by phone at 416-870-8000, and online at ticketmaster.ca. There is a ticket purchase limit of 10 per customer. If you are interested in purchasing Group Tickets (15 or more), please contact the Group Sales Office via e-mail or call 416-341-2255.

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DALAI LAMA TO SHARE PHILOSOPHIES ON HAPPINESS AT PUBLIC TALK

Public Talk at Rogers Centre

The Canadian Tibetan Association of Ontario has invited his Holiness the Dalai Lama to address the people of Toronto on Wednesday, October 31 at 4:00 p.m. This two hour event , in both Tibetan and English, offers the opportunity to hear His Holiness’ teachings on Happiness and the art of living in the moment.

His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama is admired and respected worldwide as a man of peace and compassion. He will be returning to Canada as a Canadian Citizen having received the honour in 2006.

The winner of the 1989 Nobel Peace Prize, His Holiness is a strong advocate for non-violence, inter-religious understanding and universal responsibility.

There will be a Question & Answer session as part of his presentation and spectators are being asked to submit their questions in advance via the internet. Pose your question.

Tickets for the event are on sale at all Ticketmaster outlets, including Rogers Centre – Gate 7, charge by phone at 416-872-1111, and online at ticketmaster.ca. Groups of 10 or more can contact the Group Sales Office via e-mail or call 416-341-2255.

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EVENT RECAP: POLICE GAMES HONOUR AND ENTERTAIN

Canadian Idol finalists perform during Games

The 125th Annual Police Games was a triumph once again. Not only were close to 5,000 spectators in attendance ensuring that ample funds were collected for the Widows and Orphans Fund but they also got to participate in a special taping of the event that will be sent to military personnel presently stationed overseas.

With unique on-field athletic competitions and outstanding musical performances by the Canadian Idol Top Ten Finalists, spectators in attendance were treated to a wonderful show; all in tribute to the Canadian Military

Teams from various Police Services Divisions, including Toronto Police, Barrie Regional Police, York Regional Police, Peel Regional Police, Ontario Provincial Police, Canadian Military and the Ministry of Correction, competed for bragging rights in this year’s games. Toronto Fire was also present.

With a crowd uniformly dressed in red t-shirts, symbolizing support for Canadian Troops, their applause and boisterous cheers were a constant throughout the night; especially when the Canadian Idols took the stage.

Prior to the show, fans were able to tour a static display of Police, Fire and Military equipment as well as be dazzled by the Canadian Military Brass & Reed Band, the Toronto Police Service Pipes & Drums Band along with the Winged Wheels and K9 Services.

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ON SALE THIS MONTH

The DESJARDINS VANIER CUP kicks off on Friday, November 23 in Toronto after a three year hiatus. The Canadian University Football Championship has been contested annually since 1965. In recent history, the LAVAL ROUGE-ET-OR have dominated the championships claiming three of the last four titles.

This year’s game is part of a weekend long celebration of football highlighting the relationship between college athletics and the CFL. Coaches and athletes alike are happy to be returning to Rogers Centre where weather will not be an issue. Last year’s Championship was played in -30 degree weather with the wind chill.

Festivities will be on-going throughout the downtown core leading up to the Championship Game.

Only 500 Level tickets, priced at $30.00 apiece, are available for the event without the purchase of a Grey Cup ticket. Tickets for the event are on sale at all Ticketmaster outlets, including Rogers Centre – Gate 7, charge by phone at 416-872-5000 or online at ticketmaster.ca.

The 2007 GREY CUP will be played on Sunday, November 25 less than two days after a Canadian University Champion is crowned. The best in the east and west will face-off in the winner take all game at 6:00 p.m.

This is the first time since 1973 that the CIS and CFL are partnering together to showcase the best in Canadian Football. With Canadian college athletes putting their stamp on the CFL each year, the joint venture will also benefit minor football in the City.

In addition to these two outstanding games, downtown Toronto will be home to an exciting Grey Cup Festival which will include stations for fans of all ages along with two street festivals, both free of charge. The Pepsi Front Street Festival and the VIA Rail Bremner Street Festival will have you ready for the excitement of championship football. For additional details, visit 2007 Grey Cup.

Less than 4,000 tickets remain for the big game with all upper level seats already sold out. Tickets are on sale at all Ticketmaster outlets, including Rogers Centre – Gate 7, charge by phone at 416-872-5000 or online at ticketmaster.ca.

CANADIAN ABORIGINAL FESTIVAL DAZZLES THE SENSES

Cross cultural family event packed
with fun and learning

The 14th Annual Canadian Aboriginal Festival returns to Rogers Centre from November 30 – December 2 for three days of cultural awareness and education.

The weekend festivities are designed to delight the senses as traditional foods, costumes, traditions and teachings will be on display for you to experience and enjoy. The Festival also includes an Education Day on Friday which is designed to give students a positive Aboriginal Experience and instill in them a desire to learn more. If you are a teacher and are interested in bringing your class to the event, please complete the The Education Day Brochure.

On Friday evening, Rogers Centre will dim the lights and celebrate the best in Aboriginal Music with the Annual Aboriginal Music Awards from 8:00 – 10:00 p.m.

Guests are welcome to come down to Rogers Centre on Saturday and Sunday to learn more about North America’s Aboriginal people. The festival offers food, shopping, dancing, lacrosse, music and arts. There are many hands on displays as well as showcase opportunities in which you can enjoy traditional Pow Wow dances, lacrosse competitions and crafts.

Education Day runs from 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. while the event is open to the public from 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. on Saturday and 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. on Sunday. Do not miss your chance to experience the colourfulness of the Aboriginal culture.

Education Day tickets are $7.00 for teachers and students. Click on the link above to download the application. General Festival Admission is $10.00 per adult or $5.00 per child (12 years of age and under). A family pass (2 adults and 2 children) is also available for $25.00.

Tickets for the Festival are on sale as of Monday, October 1 via all Ticketmaster outlets, including Rogers Centre - Gate 7, charge by phone at 416-870-8000, or online at ticketmaster.ca.

Groups of 10 or more are encouraged to contact the Group Sales Office via e-mail or call 416-341-2255.

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ANDRÉ BREAKS RECORDS AS VIENNA COMES TO LIFE AT ROGERS CENTRE

Rieu to perform two shows prior to Christmas.

The Guiness Book of World Records has their eyes on André Rieu’s full-stadium show as the extravaganza may set three new world records. This show, with the full opulence of a romantic Viennese night, could potentially set new records for the biggest set ever built; the largest logistical operation ever undertaken; and the largest number of performers for one show.

Master craftsmen in Europe are working hard to get all the intricate details of the Castle of Schonbrünn just right in preparation for its shipment to Canada in an incredible 125 sea containers. In addition to the magical castle, 250 performers will dazzle audience members through music, dance and even skating during Rieu’s world premier concerts on December 14 and 15, 2007.

In addition to the beautiful castle, there are many surprises in store for spectators of Rieu’s all new show. Rieu, along with his Johann Strauss orchestra, will have guests dancing in their seats and aisle with his high energy take on some of the great classics in addition to his own musical design.

Be part of history and join the largest crowd to ever watch an indoor classical music concert. Tickets, ranging in price from $84.50 to $124.50, are available at all Ticketmaster outlets, including Rogers Centre – Gate 7, charge by phone at 416-872-1111 or online at ticketmaster.ca.

Groups of 20 or more are encouraged to contact the Group Sales Office via e-mail or call 416-341-2255.

DISNEY PHENOMENON HEATS UP THE ICE

The hottest phenomenon is now on ice! Disney's High School Musical: The Ice Tour, the only live fusion of songs, dancing, and non-stop, team-spirited fun inspired by the smash hit Disney Channel Original Movie "High School Musical" and "High School Musical 2," is coming to Rogers Centre from December 21 - 30, 2007.

Get'cha head in the game and celebrate the sounds, the songs, the bop and the pop in this awesome ice show starring a cast of world class skaters portraying the roles of East High's own, Troy, Gabriella, Ryan, Sharpay, Chad and Taylor. They will be performing to the chart-topping tunes with signature choreography made popular in the Emmy Award-winning Disney Channel Original Movie and pop culture craze. And, for the first time live, fans will have the opportunity to experience moments from Disney's High School Musical 2.

Experience the Wildcat frenzy and rock the house in Disney's High School Musical: The Ice Tour produced by Feld Entertainment and Kenny Ortega.

Tickets for all 14 currently listed shows can be purchased at all Ticketmaster outlets, including Rogers Centre – Gate 7, charge by phone at 416-870-8000 and online at ticketmaster.ca.

For more information, visit High School Musical:The Ice Tour Offical Site.

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PLAN AHEAD FOR NEW YEAR OF SHOWS

MONSTER JAM RETURNS IN 2008

Monster Jam’s roaring engines, crushing sounds and high flying freestyle competition returns to Rogers Centre on Saturday, January 19 and Sunday, January 20, 2008. Top trucks from the Monster Jam Series will entertain fans with unbelievable jumps, stunts and even some thrills and spills. Expect the unexpected every time the trucks leave the starting line.

On Saturday, Rogers Centre will host the action packed Pit Party from 3:00 -5:00 p.m. Get a behind the scenes look at the monstrous machines and the fearless drivers who try to tame them each night. This is your chance to interact with drivers, take photos and collect autographs.

Tickets are $27.00 and $22.00 for adults while all children’s tickets (ages 2 – 12) are just $15.00. We are also offering unique Super Value Seats (located on the north side of Rogers Centre’s 200 Level) for just $15.00. Tickets are available at all Ticketmaster outlets, including Rogers Centre – Gate 7, charge by phone at 416-870-8000 or purchase online at ticketmaster.ca. Groups of 10 or more can contact the Group Sales Office via e-mail or call 416-341-2255.

AMA SUPERCROSS SERIES SELECTS TORONTO AS ONLY CANADIAN STOP

Only International Stop of Race Schedule

Fans of the AMA Supercross Series will be happy to know that Toronto was selected as the only international stop on the 2008 calendar. As the premier off-road full stadium motorcycle racing series in the world, the excitement and action is sure to be revving high on Saturday, March 29, 2008 as the riders take to the course.

Last season Chad Reed took the race win in front of now retired Ricky Carmichael and James Stewart.

Tickets range in price from $20.00 - $40.00 while children ages 2 – 12 pay only $15.00. They are available at all Ticketmaster outlets, including Rogers Centre – Gate 7, charge by phone at 416-870-8000 or purchase online at ticketmaster.ca. Groups of 20 or more can contact the Group Sales Office via e-mail or call 416-341-2255.

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The items in this publication are intended for your information and should not be reproduced without the written permission from the Rogers Centre Communications Office.