Indie Venue Week kicks off this Saturday, October 24th, and is set to feature loads of great programming in and by some of the country’s best loved indie venues. There’ll be performances, panels and even a memorabilia auction (which includes a cowbell signed by Al Bouchard of Blue Öyster Cult and a pair of seats from the original Merriweather Pavilion) to raise money for the NIVA Emergency Relief Fund.
Panel discussions will focus on a broad range of topics, including what venues can do to build and diversify their audience, how live events are adapting to the new virtual “normal”, and the importance these venues hold for the community and the economy.
Thursday, October 29th is extra special; it’s an entire day to Get Schooled, ft. programming geared towards students looking to get their start in the live music and events industry.
Alison Mosshart of The Kills and The Dead Weather is this year’s artist ambassador, and over 130 venues are slated to participate including DC’s own 9:30 Club, Lincoln Theatre, City Winery, The Anthem and The Loft, as well as NYC venues like Trans Pecos, TV Eye, The Sultan Room, Baby’s All Right and more.
Alison Mosshart | Photo Credit: David James Swanson
There’s never been a more critical time to show support for indie venues, which have been disproportionately affected by the pandemic. Let’s make sure to preserve these spaces so we can see them on the other side.
Mark your calendars to tune in for the week-long event, and if you have the means, please donate to support our favorite stages.Â
