Drum Corps International (DCI), the non-profit event producer and sanctioning body for the world's most elite and exclusive marching ensembles for student musicians, today announced the relocation of its 2008 World Championships to the 52,000-seat Memorial Stadium, on the campus of Indiana University (IU) in Bloomington, Ind. The event was originally scheduled to be held in the new Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, which will not be available in time for this year's premier event in the world of marching music. "Since the planning process began more than two years ago, we've realized that the possibility existed that the new stadium might not be ready in time to accommodate our 2008 World Championships," said Dan Acheson, Executive Director and CEO of Drum Corps International. "Unfortunately, as we found out this afternoon from a local news outlet, stadium construction officials have determined that the stadium will not be ready in time for our event this summer. We're a bit frustrated that we were 'scooped' on learning of this development, as we had no direct knowledge prior to the announcement that a change of venue was imminent. The notification occurring in this manner was not what any of those directly involved with our World Championships events had intended."

IU's Memorial Stadium
 
Contingency Plans in Place As a part of the detailed planning process surrounding the annual Drum Corps International World Championship events, IU and other officials from various community and governmental agencies have been working closely with DCI representatives to ensure a seamless process in the event of exactly such a possibility. Tickets for the 2008 Drum Corps International World Championships in Bloomington will go on sale as soon as possible. Updated information will be released to corps directors and fans in the coming days regarding specific plans for the shift to the IU campus. Fans are urged to check DCI.org regularly for additional information.
 
Championship Preparations Underway "Now that we know Bloomington will be our home for the culmination of our 2008 Summer Tour, we're all looking forward to an exciting 2008 World Championships at an impressive venue in its own right," Acheson continued. "Clearly, there are many issues that we're moving quickly to address, and we're appreciative of our loyal fans who continue to be patient as we work to create a championship experience worthy of the exceptional performers of Drum Corps International's outstanding units. We're confident that the 2008 World Championship week activities will serve as merely the latest chapter in a tremendous legacy, and will contribute to the foundation of a long and deeply rewarding relationship with the fine people of the state of Indiana." View a set of frequently asked questions.