Brookdale Community College, Route 520, Lincroft, will celebrate its 40th anniversary with rhythm and blues, hip hop recording star Rihanna on Oct. 13 at 7 p.m. in the Robert Collins Arena.
Rihanna was solicited by Student Life and Activities after a request from the student body. According to Robert Quinones, director of the Warner Student Life Center, “two years ago a poll was taken. The consensus of our student body was they wanted a famous hip-hop and R&B act to come in.”
Quinones said the Athletic Department was looking for other ways to use the 3,000 seat Collins arena.
“We thought bringing Rihanna to perform would add to the Founders Day celebration,” Quinones said. “We want all of our students to be represented in the activities we offer.”
Amanda Perham, student volunteer and president of the Student Life Board, is excited about the star’s appearance.
“I think it is awesome that such a big hip-hop star would consider coming. Everyone is looking forward to her performance,” Perham said.
Sarah Brennan, assistant athletic director, said this is a unique chance for the college to use its own arena. She said the arena is often rented out for community events such as martial arts and cheerleading competitions.
“The 3,000-seat facility will provide a very intimate setting and there is not a bad seat in the house,” she said of the upcoming concert.
Brennan said college administrators recognize the arena’s potential and are frequenting the venue more often. She said the Oct. 13 concert will move the college “one step further in that direction.”
The concert will be opened by recording artist Kat Daluna performing her hit single “Whine Up.”
Tickets are on sale and being sold to Brookdale students with valid identification for $35 at the Student Activities information desk in the Warner Student Life Center. For the community, general admission tickets are $50 and only available through www.ticketweb.com or 1-866-468- 7619. Parking is in lots six and seven and the doors will open at 6 p.m., with the show starting at 7 p.m.