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First Avenue’s Beloved Stage Manager Conrad Sverkerson Dies at 66

The Minneapolis venue says it will honor his 37-year imprint at every show.

Overview

  • His family said he died of lung cancer on Oct. 1 at Essentia Health–St. Mary’s in Duluth, where he was surrounded by loved ones.
  • Sverkerson joined First Avenue in 1988, starting as a doorman on a night that ended with foosball with Duran Duran, and became its longtime stage manager.
  • First Avenue called him the face of the club for artists and crews and praised his steadiness, storytelling and leadership.
  • Artists and colleagues shared tributes, including Wayne Coyne, Dave Pirner, Gary Clark Jr., Margo Price and others recalling his kindness and professionalism.
  • Fans left flowers at his exterior star marked “Conrad,” and Low Cut Connie dedicated Thursday’s show at the club to his memory.