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February 14, 2023 | 7:55 p.m
James Dolan late Tuesday fired two of the top executives responsible for running his over-budget and delayed music venue, due to open in Las Vegas this fall, The Post has learned.
The Knicks and Rangers owner plans to personally oversee the completion of the $2.2 billion MSG sphere, a source told The Post.
Dolan paid for an expensive Super Bowl advertisement during Sunday’s game promoting the new venue and its first act, U2. The high-tech MSG Sphere, which has been burdened by construction delays and cost overruns, is now slated to open in September.
To reach the finish line, Dolan dropped MSG Sphere president Lucas Watson and MSG Sphere senior manager of business operations Jenna Wolfenson, according to an internal memo verified by The Post.
Dolan said he is streamlining the organization so it can work more efficiently with brand strategy and partnerships by leveraging its expertise across its family of companies, the memo said.
James Dolan takes over the MSG Sphere, which is only a few months away from opening. MICHAEL SIMON/startraksphoto.com
He believed there were some weak links, said a source close to the situation.
MSG declined to comment.
Dolan, who described The Sphere as the world’s most technologically advanced entertainment venue, announced in the memo that he is adding Guy Barnett to lead brand strategy and creative development.
Dolan also plans to enlist David Hopkinson, the president of MSG Sports, who controls the Knicks and Rangers, to help run the Sphere, according to the memo.
The Sphere is part of Dolan’s Madison Square Garden Entertainment, which includes Tao restaurants and venues such as Madison Square Garden and Radio City Music Hall.
Watson was brought on board last March to lead the strategy and execution of all aspects of the arena’s business. Previously, he was CEO of the self-driving company Cruise.
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