Sun-Times & CenterstageChicago: BFF 4-Ever

By Joanna Miller in News on Aug 3, 2006 3:17PM

Look out Metromix, the Sun-Times is getting into the entertainment Web site game. On Wednesday, the Bright One announced its purchase of CenterstageChicago.com for an undisclosed price.

Unlike Metromix, which was developed by the Tribune and launched in 1997, CenterstageChicago has operated on its own for a decade. The site was founded by four Northwestern grads and has expanded its features and coverage over the years.

Obviously, the Sun-Times wants a piece of the online pie – and it says this is the first step toward an improved online presence – but we see Metromix and CenterstageChicago as less direct competitors than, say, RedEye and Red Streak (RIP).

The two sites have distinctively different content and tones – Metromix has tons of pictures and features, while CenterstageChicago rocks the Virtual El Tour and more comprehensive reviews.

We think there’s probably room enough for everyone.

The Sun-Times says it plans to expand its online entertainment coverage to the suburbs with time.