The citizen owned SMG-managed BOK Center was nominated for the sixth consecutive year by the Academy of Country Music (ACM) for Venue of the Year – Large Capacity. The BOK Center, funded by taxpayers in the Vision 2015 program opened in 2008, has been nominated for the award every year since opening.

In order to be considered for Venue of the Year, the venue must have bought or promoted at least three country concerts during the prior calendar year of January 1 to December 31, 2014, and be in good standing with all agents. In 2014, BOK Center hosted four country concerts including Lady Antebellum, George Strait, Brantley Gilbert and Eric Church.

“We are honored to once again be nominated by the Academy of Country Music for Venue of the Year,” said SMG General Manager Jeff Nickler. “In today’s competitive environment where venues compete for every show we book, BOK Center’s continued success is a testament to the passion Tulsans have for country music.  We couldn’t be more appreciative of the artists and promoters who continue to think of BOK Center as a must-play venue.”

Also nominated for Venue of the Year – Large Capacity were Cruzan Ampitheatre (West Palm Beach, FL), Gorge Ampitheatre (George, WA), Hollywood Bowl (Hollywood, CA), and Klipsch Music Center (Noblesville, IN).

Venue of the year is an off-camera Industry Award and will be presented during the 9th Annual ACM Honors event September 1, 2015 in Nashville at the historic Ryman Auditorium. The Industry Awards honor the behind-the-scenes industry professionals and venues who contribute so much to the artistry, success and longevity of country music. The award is considered a part of the 50th Annual Academy of Country Music Awards and is voted on by the professional membership of the academy.