For many small to medium-sized arts venues, the last few years were some of the toughest to navigate. The COVID-19 pandemic, supply chain struggles, and the contracting of the global economy all played a part. Many venues struggled to stay open or were forced to close down permanently, and ultimately support from COVID era stimulus packages saved the industry from mass collapse. Independent venues play important roles as third spaces for social engagement, but they also generate jobs and contribute greatly to economic activity.
Formed during the pandemic, the National Independent Venue Association recently hosted its first conference in Cleveland in 2022; and the Cleveland chapter just recently announced the Cleveland Music Census--an effort to gather measurable data on the economic impact of independent venues.
This October the City Club is celebrating 10 years of Happy Dog Takes On the World. Over the decade, members and friends listened in on dozens of conversations covering global issues, politics, and more. To mark the milestone, independent venue owners will join the City Club to discuss the important role these venues serve for our communities as third spaces and the live entertainment ecosystem.
Let us know if you're coming! Please RSVP by registering below. It's not required, but it helps us prepare and keeps you updated!
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The livestream will be available beginning at 7:30p.m. Have questions? Tweet them at @TheCityClub or send a text to 330.541.5794.
The ideas expressed in City Club forums are those of the speakers, and not of the City Club, Ideastream Public Media, or their sponsors.