The economy might be in the dumps, and arts organizations across the country are scrambling to keep their heads above water, but two upcoming local performances are selling really well. In fact, the Fresno Grand Opera's Mario Lanza tribute concert Saturday at the Tower Theatre is pretty much sold out. (There were only six tickets left late this morning.) General director Ronald D. Eichman advises:

There is no waiting list, but people can certainly show up at the door to see if anyone shows up with extras....this usually happens.

Then there's the Fresno Philharmonic's eagerly anticipated "Classical Mystery Tour: A Tribute to the Beatles," still more than a week away (it plays Feb. 7 at the Saroyan Theatre), which is really close to selling out. Executive director Don Reinhold told me this afternoon:

There are only about 200 seats left, counting seats added in front of the stage and in the loge. The availability is decreasing by the hour!

Here's the cool thing: I have tickets to give away to BOTH concerts. I'll be posting the Mario Lanza giveaway in just a few minutes. And watch early next week on the Beehive for a chance to win prime seats for the Beatles.