I wouldn't get too hung up on conspiracy theories. If this rumour is true is simply an evolution of what has been happening over and over again at International Conventions for several years now. We've seen visiting delegates "treated" to shows at assembly halls and other locations featuring local performers for entertainment and socialisation purposes.
The venue would obviously be a step up from previous efforts but I don't see much more in it than that. I am sure there would be donation boxes around and people would feel motivated to donate but if they really wanted to make money then an assembly hall would be the ideal location.
Don't get me wrong, I am sure they will have costed it out and won't be doing it for break-even or worse but I would say it's more about building a buzz around the convention as a whole and making it a desirable objective, something that can then be used to market future events.
Yes the religion is changing but the big change is in the emotional and aspirational aspects. Doctrine is out the window in favour of regular hits of emotional highs. For me the money side has always been there in one form or another, some of the recent money grabs accepted.