Prudential Center and Izod Center this summer are "seeing an increase in concerts as artists seek replacement dates" while MSG is closed for renovations, according to Peggy McGlone of the Newark STAR-LEDGER. Prudential Center also is hosting the WNBA Liberty, and arena operator Devils Arena Entertainment President Rich Krezwick said that the combination is "making for a bustling summer in Newark." In addition to the Liberty's 18 home dates, Prudential Center is hosting Taylor Swift "for four nights this month -- the longest stand since Bon Jovi opened the Newark arena in 2007." The arena also hosted last month's NBA Draft, "another event that had to move from the theater at the Garden, where it was held for nearly the past decade." Krezwick: "It's definitely busier than in recent years and we can certainly attribute a portion of that to Madison Square Garden being closed." Similarly, Izod Center officials said that the arena's schedule "includes a few more shows in June and July as well as nine rehearsal dates for Paul McCartney, who is prepping for his upcoming stadium tour." Both Krezwick and Izod Center operator NJSEA Exec VP/Facilities James Minish contend that MSG's closure is "only one factor" behind the increase. More shows are "touring this year than last year, and Prudential's train link to Manhattan has helped it get some of the Garden's leftovers" (Newark STAR-LEDGER, 7/18).
