Views from the Shore
By Brian Cahill
While teaching my marketing class at Stockton University, I was discussing the importance of USP: unique selling proposition. When giving examples, I instantly thought of Dave Pena and Val Feo from Pena Productions. I first met Dave when we worked together to bring Boogie Nights to Atlantic City and it has since become an institution in the resort’s nightlife scene. I later had an opportunity to work with Val and Dave on a hospital fundraiser with a zodiac-based show called “An Evening Under The Stars.” Like Boogie Nights, that show was unique and we were able to raise a lot of money for patient care at Shore Cancer Center.
So, what’s Pena Production’s formula for success? The “Blue Ocean” strategy.
The Blue Ocean strategy is to identify a void in a market, and then create a new opportunity. For example, before Boogie Nights there were no AC nightclubs targeting the 30+ crowd, so their retro club was an instant hit. People enjoyed the horoscope show because there was nothing like it.
Pena Productions believes the magic starts with the name and logo. Next is identifying what the audience wants, and securing the right venue. Dave and Val make it their priority to always exceed expectations. It’s their goal for people to walk away with a positive experience, so much that they spread the word long after they leave. According to Dave Pena, “You are only as good as your last weekend, so Val and I are constantly planning, preparing, and calculating our next move.”
“Energy is the key. It’s the basis for everything and anything in the entertainment world,” continued Pena, “Unlike a restaurant which has menu items that can be taught cook to cook, you can’t teach energy. That’s why we surround ourselves with intensely creative people who share our passion for making the magic happen every night. This constantly fuels us to imagine what next weekend has in store.”
Val and Dave’s next dip into the Blue Ocean is the Primal Men Male Revue coming to Kiss Kiss Nightclub at Tropicana in Atlantic City. “We’re bringing back male entertainment to Atlantic City in an exciting, new way. This show is heavily choreographed, it’s sexy, it’s fun, there’s comedy and most importantly there’s escapism. That’s what this city was built on, a playground for adults and we’re bringing it back to its roots with Primal Men Male Revue.” says Pena. The animalistic logo and the raw name set the stage. It’s the perfect match for various audiences, including bachelorette parties, girls’ nights out, and even divorce parties. “Kiss Kiss Nightclub has awesome sound, lighting, and even a signature catwalk,” said Pena. “Its energy is how we like it- it’s on high volume from the moment we start and never lets up. Audiences are going to love the show, and we can’t wait to see their reaction.”
Primal Men debuts Feb. 17th at Kiss Kiss Nightclub and will continue every Saturday.
Doors open at 7 p.m. with pre-show cocktails and the revue starts at 8 p.m. Ticket prices start at $25 for general admission and include entry to Kiss Kiss Nightclub after the show. There are other premium packages available including VIP seating which is $35, and the Ultimate Primal VIP Package which includes a VIP booth, hot seat, and group photo with men from Primal Men for $45. You must be 21 to attend. Tickets are available at www.primalmenlive.com
Brian Cahill is the Director of Marketing for Shore Medical Center and Shore Physicians Group. He is also on the Board of the Somers Point Business Association and is an Adjunct Professor in the School of Business at Stockton University.
