Jsalcedo;
T'were me, I'd go to the promoter's first. Tell them the story, and yes it'd be a real good thing to have all the back-up info you can amass. If they are sympathetic, but can't do a whole lot for you; well, ask how much a table is & can you get it right across the aisle from you-know-who?
If that works out, the seller might be inclined to be reasonable, if you start off nice. After all, you just might very well ruin his weekend.
900F