NEW YORK (March 22, 2006) -- The 71st NFL Draft on April 29-30 will be held for the first time at New York City's Radio City Music Hall, a world-renowned setting normally showcasing musicians, Santa Claus and the Rockettes, the NFL and Madison Square Garden announced.
Held in New York City since 1965, the NFL Draft will be televised nationally by ESPN, and -- for the first time -- NFL Network.
The NFL Draft begins at noon on Saturday, April 29 and is free to the public.
America's most popular entertainers and shows such as the beloved Radio City Christmas Spectacular have thrilled audiences at Radio City Music Hall since its doors opened in 1932.
"We are pleased to present the NFL Draft at the legendary Radio City Music Hall," said Frank Supovitz, the NFL's senior vice president of events. "We look forward to making this year's draft a memorable event -- both for the fans who enjoy attending and for the top college players who come to New York with their families."
"For more than 70 years, Radio City Music Hall has been the setting for many legendary performances and events, including a few from the world of sports," said Steve Mills, president and chief operating officer, MSG Sports and Jay Marciano, president, Radio City Entertainment. "We are pleased to showcase Radio City's Great Stage in yet another incarnation, as it welcomes the NFL Draft for the first time in its history."
Working in conjunction with NYC Big Events Inc. and its Draft Host Committee, the NFL will promote the Draft and its new theme, "The Dream Starts Here," on 300 street pole banners throughout midtown Manhattan, on a Times Square billboard and on 80 bus shelters. The banners feature images of Michael Strahan of the New York Giants and Jonathan Vilma of the New York Jets in addition to other NFL stars.
