Almost a decade ago, Dan Hincks sought to add new dimension to his life as the owner and CEO of Data Management, Inc., a specialty product printing business located in Farmington.
He wanted to find a way to combine his love of business with his passion for music by establishing an intimate, high-quality music destination in Connecticut.
Fast-forward to today. Hincks has seen that aspiration come to life in the form of Infinity Music Hall & Bistro, a wildly successful concert venue and four-star contemporary restaurant located in Norfolk.
[Feature Photo Credit: L.E. Agnelli]
Constructed in 1883, the music hall once served as a combination opera house, barbershop and saloon before undergoing a major renovation to restore the building to its original splendor while transforming it into the richly inviting, 300-seat theater it is today.
Since opening in October of 2008, Infinity Hall Norfolk has played host to hundreds of iconic musicians on its grand stage, including the likes of Waylon Jennings, Los Lonely Boys and Jose Feliciano.
“There’s been a lot of music happening in Norfolk for the last six years,” said Hincks. “There’ve been tremendous artists and it’s been a lot of fun.”
So much fun, in fact, that Hincks partnered up with CPTV in 2011 to produce the television series Infinity Hall Live.
The program features not only live performances at the music hall, but also backstage access and conversations with the various performers.
“The first year, we did eight episodes. By the second year, it was very popular and about 80 percent of public stations were carrying it live,” said Hincks. “It’s now nationally syndicated and broadcast into 80 million households in all major markets.”
On the heels of his success with Infinity Hall and the ensuing Emmy Award- winning program, Hincks initiated plans to open a second venue — this time in Hartford.
“I knew right away that I wanted to put it on the Front Street Entertainment District,” he said. “It’s an emerging district with convenient parking, a lot of restaurants and a lot happening there.”
In August of 2014, Infinity Music Hall & Bistro, Hartford, opened its doors, welcoming locals and visitors alike to enjoy great music in its 500-seat theater, and dine at the on-site contemporary restaurant.
“We’ve had a tremendous number of great bands in Hartford — bands like Toad the Wet Sprocket and America. We’ve had a lot of shows since we opened up at the end of August and it’s been a very busy place,” said Hincks.
Moving forward, Hincks wants to continue fostering the success of the Infinity Halls and intends to focus his energy on ensuring that both are as good as they can possibly be.
“It’s been a good road, and I’m looking forward to the future as well.”
Sarah Lemire 