Shivangi Sinha
Interest in the Area 51 event skyrocketed almost overnight, drawing millions of responses and widespread media coverage. As the date approached, concerns about safety, infrastructure, and the rural location of Rachel, Nevada, became more pressing. To address these risks, Las Vegas–based event promoter Frank DiMaggio stepped in and proposed an alternative plan to transform the gathering into a safer, more organized festival experience. His proposal, however, sparked internal conflict among the original organizers. In Netflix’s ‘Trainwreck: Storm Area 51,’ DiMaggio shared his perspective on how he became involved and reflected on the challenges and decisions made during the chaotic buildup.
Frank DiMaggio Made an Important Change at the Storm Area 51 Event
Frank DiMaggio was not among the original organizers of Alienstock, and the event was initially planned to take place in Rachel, Nevada. However, he became involved through his connection with Connie West, a local motel owner who had partnered with Matty Roberts to host the gathering. Once Frank stepped in, he quickly realized the logistical nightmare of hosting a massive event in the middle of a remote desert town. He assessed that they would need to essentially build a temporary city from scratch with tents, backup generators, food supplies, sanitation, and adequate security. In his view, the setup wasn’t feasible and posed significant safety risks. Frank proposed relocating the event to a more suitable and prepared venue. Though this caused tension with Connie West and others loyal to the original plan, Matty Roberts eventually agreed.
Frank feared the whole thing might collapse into chaos like the infamous Fyre Festival, and didn’t want to take that risk. Just nine days before the scheduled date, on September 9, 2019, Frank announced the new venue as the Downtown Las Vegas Events Center. The event, backed by Bud Light, was well-organized and drew a crowd of approximately 11,000 attendees. In the Netflix documentary, Frank discussed his decision-making process, his concerns, and the backlash from the Rachel-based team. Ultimately, he felt satisfied with how the event played out, believing he helped steer it away from disaster and turn it into a safe and successful celebration.
Frank DiMaggio Had to Settle a Lawsuit With a Colleague After the 2019 Event
Frank DiMaggio later reflected that his involvement in the Area 51 event was far from easy or pleasant, largely due to the intense fallout and a years-long legal battle that followed. After the split from the original Alienstock plans in Rachel, Nevada, Connie West, who had been coordinating the event locally, filed a lawsuit against Hidden Sound LLC and its affiliates, including Frank and Matty Roberts. The claims included defamation, intentional interference with contractual relationships, and loss of prospective economic advantage.
In trying to distance themselves from the Rachel-based version of the festival, Frank had publicly stated that the arrangements made by West were inadequate and potentially unsafe. This added fuel to the conflict. The legal dispute dragged on until 2021, when a tentative settlement was finally reached. Ultimately, the case was resolved in West’s favor, with a judgment of approximately $3.4 million. Frank expressed deep disappointment with the outcome and stated that it would likely be a long time before she received any money from him.
Frank DiMaggio is an Active Part of the Las Vegas Entertainment Industry Today
Frank DiMaggio graduated from the University of California, Davis in 1989 with a Bachelor’s degree in Education and Instructional Technology. He began his career in the entertainment industry as the Director of Entertainment at High Sierra Management, Inc., where he developed his skills in artist coordination and live event production. In February 2007, he joined Abrams Artists Agency in the Artist Relations division and worked with talent, developing long-standing relationships within the industry. His expertise in both marketing and entertainment strategy made him a reliable name in the business. Since February 2019, Frank has served as the Marketing Director for Vocapsule.com, a Las Vegas–based company specializing in voice cloning technology.
In this role, he’s been instrumental in promoting the brand across various media platforms and integrating it with entertainment outreach, especially in the growing niche of digital legacies and AI voice preservation. His efforts reflect his passion for both technology and creative innovation. He is also an established business developer and celebrity partner relations manager. A strong supporter of local entertainment, Frank remains actively involved in Vegas’ music and arts communities. He is often seen at various events with friends like Korie Koker, Danny Koker, and Michael Hery. Though it’s been a while since he’s performed himself, he still has a deep love for rock ‘n’ roll and occasionally raps on stage during small gigs.
Personally, Frank experienced a difficult time after losing his father in October 2024. He remains extremely close to his sister, DeejayLana Williams, and is especially protective of his nephew, Mason, whom he treats like a son. He is engaged to be married soon, but has not shared much about his wife-to-be in any capacity. Based out of Las Vegas, Nevada, Frank balances a dynamic professional life with a deeply seated commitment to his family and his values.
Read More: Where is Matty Roberts Now?
