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Ex-Done Events head becomes CEO of new Middle East-based live music company
By IQ on 01 Dec 2015
Middle East-based promoter Thomas Ovesen has been named CEO of new company 117 Live.
117 Live is part of media and entertainment conglomerate the Al Ahil Holding Group (AAHG), which is opening a temporary 20,000-capacity greenfield site, prior to the 2017 launch of its new 25,000-capacity open air Amphitheatre in Dubai.
The venue, featuring pavilion hosted boxes, suites and terraces will be the only one of its kind in the Middle East. Construction will begin in early 2016, dramatically increasing the number of events able to be staged in the region.
Ovesen (pictured), who was previously head of Dubai-based promoter Done Events, will direct all global activity for the division with a focus on live events, from music through to comedy. He will also lead plans to expand 117 Live’s interests into local and international talent management, venue management and programming.
“This is a pivotal moment for our company and I’m proud that 117 Live will be leading the charge.”
“With all of the exciting developments and acquisitions AAHG have made recently this is a fantastic time to be joining them,” said Ovesen. “I will be working on a joined up global strategy, ensuring we use all of our various assets to the very best effect. 117 Live will be a driving force in entertainment and we’ll look beyond the Middle East and into the Far East, Asia and US.
“With the imminent arrival of the new amphitheatre this is a pivotal moment for our company and I’m proud that 117 Live will be leading the charge.”
Ovesen has introduced new festivals such as RedFestDXB and Blended to the UAE and brought the likes of Justin Bieber, One Direction, Katy Perry, Usher and Jennifer Lopez to the region.
Al Ahil Holding Group CEO Mohammed Khammas added: “As part of AAHG’s long-term strategic diversification and sustainable growth plan, 117 Live will be a key component to our international expansion within lifestyle, entertainment and digital media portfolio.
“Thomas has an exemplary track record and a global view. Here at AAHG we ensure that we hire the very best people in the business and Thomas is the perfect person to run 117 Live. He is a smart strategist and a passionate music lover, both qualities that will ensure 117 Live is a great success.”