Abramorama Secures U.S. Distribution for ‘Ron Delsener Presents’
Abramorama has announced its acquisition of the U.S. distribution rights for the feature-length documentary, Ron Delsener Presents, produced by RadicalMedia. This film highlights the remarkable career of Ron Delsener, renowned for his pivotal role as a concert promoter in New York City.
Film Overview and Initial Reception
Featuring an impressive lineup of exclusive interviews, the documentary has already garnered attention, having been reviewed by Variety during its previews in 2023. Notable figures interviewed in the film include:
- Jon Bon Jovi
- Jimmy Buffett
- Cher
- Art Garfunkel
- Billy Joel
- Lenny Kaye
- Lorne Michaels
- Bette Midler
- Gene Simmons
- Paul Simon
- Patti Smith
- Bruce Springsteen
- Steve Van Zandt
The film is set to premiere in theaters nationwide, beginning with a weeklong engagement at New York City’s Quad Cinema on May 30th. Following the initial run, it will be shown across the Tri-State area and in select cities throughout the country. Delsener and various guests will participate in multiple Q&A sessions during the film’s engagement at the Quad.
Insights from the Director
Director Jake Sumner commented on Delsener’s influence, saying, “For generations, most of the live music in New York City and most of its iconic venues were presided over by one individual and his small team, and that was Ron Delsener. His personal narrative encapsulates the evolution of live music from a modest industry to a dominant cultural force worldwide.” Sumner emphasized the vast archival footage and materials sourced from Delsener’s personal collection, illuminating a lesser-known history of live performances.
Chronicle of a Musical Era
The documentary details the transformation of live music events from modest gatherings to grand spectacles, including international tours and arena shows. At 86 years of age, Ron Delsener continues to be an active participant in New York’s concert scene. The film captures significant moments in Delsener’s career, such as:
- Hosting The Beatles at Forest Hills Tennis Stadium
- Bringing David Bowie to Carnegie Hall
- Presenting Patti Smith at the Palladium
A highlight of the film is the recounting of Simon and Garfunkel’s 1981 reunion concert in Central Park, where Delsener shares how he artfully persuaded Paul Simon that the reunion was indeed Simon’s own initiative—a strategic insight that was crucial for its success.
Abramorama’s Commitment to Storytelling
Karol Martesko-Fenster, CEO of Abramorama, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, “Abramorama is thrilled to collaborate with Jake and the extended film team to bring this engaging portrait of a quintessential New Yorker to a broader audience.” Richard Abramowitz, the founder, added, “During the 70s, Ron Delsener produced more memorable music in New York than anyone else, helping to shape the musical tastes of a generation.”
Through his productions, Delsener has hosted performances by legendary artists such as Bob Marley, Bruce Springsteen, and Ella Fitzgerald, facilitating gatherings of music lovers under the New York stars.