The MRG Group Takes Over Operations for Kelowna, B.C. Venue, Revelry

One of Canada’s largest live entertainment groups is taking over operations at a beloved Kelowna venue.

Effective September 1, The MRG Group will manage live entertainment bookings, operations and event delivery for Revelry.

With this new arrangement, the live entertainment and venue management group plans to leverage its expertise to expand Revelry’s programming, boasting a diverse range of touring artists and recurring local events.

“Shortly after MRG approached us, it became clear we shared a common vision for integrating hospitality with the live event experience,” explains Lee Simon, owner of Revelry.

The collective goal, he says, is to ensure that Kelowna becomes a regular stop for national touring acts.

“Alongside, MRG’s hospitality arm will be providing substantial support for the continued expansion of our private events, corporate events and pub night formats," he continues.

Located in downtown Kelowna, Revelry's two-floor space, modern audio-visual capabilities and versatile event offerings make it a key destination in the Okanagan Valley’s entertainment scene.

Jacob Smid, COO of The MRG Group — and 2025 Billboard Canada Power Player —says there is immense potential to build on Revelry’s initial success.

“We are incredibly excited to bring our operational, production and booking expertise to Revelry," he shares. "Our goal is to make Revelry a must-play destination for touring artists and the go-to spot for memorable nights out in Kelowna."

This agreement comes after country star Cameron Whitcomb cancelled his second of two sold-out shows last month at the venue on July 26. Calling his first night "a disaster," he cited technical and production issues. "I sincerely apologize, and really hope the Revelry can fix this," he shared with fans in a now-deleted Instagram post.

Two days later, Simon responded to Whitcomb's claims, saying they were "heartbroken" that the second night didn't move forward. "Several options were presented before Saturday's planned show to demonstrate that all issues were resolved. Unfortunately, those options were denied by the artist," he told Capital News.

Currently, The MRG Group owns and operates 14 properties in Canada, including Toronto's Queen Elizabeth Theatre and Adelaide Hall, and Vancouver’s Vogue Theatre. MRG produces over 1,000 live shows annually through MRG Live, one of the biggest indie promoters in Canada.