This summer's PNE concert lineup leans on nostalgia and local talent
Aqua, TLC, Blue Rodeo, Billy Talent and Billy Idol all included in 2023 concert series
Some familiar faces will return to the Pacific National Exhibition (PNE) concert stage this summer.
TLC will take to the stage on the opening weekend Aug. 19 after performing as part of the series just last summer. The following night sees R&B trio Boyz II Men take to the stage.
Taking concert goers back to the 1970s, Boney M will perform with special guest Maizie Williams on Aug. 23, while 1980s sensation Billy Idol will make a return to the PNE stage Aug. 27 and 1990s favourites Aqua and Pink Martini are also scheduled to play.
PNE spokesperson Laura Ballance says high demand in previous years influenced the choice to bring some artists back to the fair.
"In recent years we had Billy Idol. There were a lot of people disappointed that they weren't able to get a ticket," she said. "So we brought him back."
WATCH | TLC set to return to PNE stage after last year's show:
Local talent will be on show this year as well, with rapper bbno$ and his pal Yung Gravy included in the lineup, while Jason Derulo, known for pop hits such as Savage Love, Whatcha Say and Ridin' Solo, will also perform.
Several other Canadian acts are set to play, including Billy Talent, Tenille Townes, Walk off the Earth and Doug and the Slugs who will play a special show with the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra, while Blue Rodeo will finish off the series with a show on Sept. 4.
"The PNE's roots is about showcasing local talent ... across the different elements of the fair," Ballance said.
A special Stars of Drag show is on the schedule, hosted by Crystal Methyd from Ru Paul's Drag Race, and will feature fellow Drag Race alumni Alyssa Edwards and Raja.
Concert tickets go on sale May 26, and Ballance says they will range from $20 to $79. Reserved tickets are required for all shows, and concert-goers must also pay fair admission.
Admission for adults is $25 or $20 in advance; $16 for seniors and youth aged 13-18 or $14 in advance; and $9 for children aged 4-12 or $7 in advance. Kids under three get in for free.
Suites overlooking the crowd and stage are also available, ranging in price from $1,782 to $2,755 depending on the performer and the size.