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Pittsburgh concert promoter Jon Rinaldo, founder of Joker Productions, has promoted more than 5,000 shows since the company's 1989 opening.
Joker Productions first show was with Peter Case (of The Plimsouls) at the Graffiti Showcase. Joker Productions continued to promote shows at Graffiti, bringing such artists as the Goo Goo Dolls, 311, The Toasters, Michelle Shocked and others.
In 1997, Joker Productions moved to Club Laga. Joker Productions was the in house promoter at Club Laga from 1997 to 2004. Artists such as Macy Gray, Wu Tang Clan, Blink 182, Maroon 5, The Roots, DJ Shadow, Dashboard Confessional and others performed during these years at Pittsburgh's Premier Live Music venue.
In 2004, Club Laga closed it's doors and Joker Productions were forced to become club owners. They took over the defunct "Rosebud" in the Strip District, renaming it - The World. The World lasted for one year. During this time Joker Productions developed a relationship with Club Cafe. They continued to promote shows at Club Cafe until 2007.
In 2007, Joker Productions began promoting mid size concerts at a new venue, Diesel (formally Nick's Fat City). Joker Productions also developed a relationship with the Thunderbird Cafe in Lawrenceville where they are the exclusive buyers of national talent.
In 2008, Joker Productions started to produce large club concerts again, promoting concerts at the Ches Arena (formally Gravity). A few of the notable artists that have performed at the Ches Arena are Cobra Starship, All Time Low, Underoath & the Kottnmouth Kings.
In 2009, Joker Productions attempted to produce outdoor concerts at the Riverplex Amphitheatre. Three concerts were produced at the Riverplex, Neko Case, All Time Low & Gov't Mule.
Also in 2009, Joker Productions made history by promoting a sold out performance with Morrissey at the Carnegie Music Hall (Oakland). This was the first Pittsburgh performance by Morrissey since his days as the frontman for The Smiths.
In 2010, Joker Productions continues to promote concerts at Diesel, the Thunderbird Cafe & Ches Arena.
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