In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the live music entertainment business has taken a great hit since almost all of its business relies on the gathering of large groups of people, which have all gone away since the governments of many states have begun enacting states of emergency and quarantine.
As of right now, there is a lot of speculation about how soon things will clear up and live performances will be allowed to resume, but it ultimately is unsure and this proves to be worrisome for those who work at live performance venues — especially ones of smaller capacities.
Even with plans on reopening the country are being discussed, it is looking like concerts will not be coming back anytime soon, but that is where the National Independent Venue Association comes in. This is a newly founded organization that is working with partnered live entertainment venues throughout the country to gain funding for them during these times where many establishments are in danger of not re-opening their doors when the virus blows over or a vaccine is found.
NIVA is dedicating their time and resources to keep these venues afloat because they are important to their local economies by encouraging tourism and providing a draw for surrounding businesses. Some of the Chicago venues that have partnered would include Reggie’s, the Bottom Lounge, Lincoln Hall, Thalia Hall and Subterranean to name a few.
Gary Witt, Pabst Theater Group CEO and founding member of NIVA, explains the organization as a lobbying firm that is meant to represent the 450 partnered venues and promoters across 43 states in Washington D.C. in hopes to receive government funding to keep them afloat. In addition, they will also provide venues resources and information as well as guidance in navigating the Small Business Administration’s Payroll Protection Program.
NIVA is important because it is bringing restoration to a business market that is incredibly cut-throat and competitive to begin with, but this pandemic situation on top of it cuts business back completely. Many venues and promoters report that business this year was on track to be one of their best in a long time, making it disappointing for them and concert-goers alike.
Even though every concert venue is down for the count at the moment, the situation still threatens to close the doors of many independent venues that are not protected financially by a larger corporation such as Live Nation. These smaller, independent venues are not only the livelihoods of many in the music and entertainment business, but the patrons value memories and culture of the cities and towns that they reside in that these places preserve.
NIVA is reaching out to fans and concert-goers to support their cause and the live performance venues that they enjoy visiting by asking them to send a pre-written letter to their state representatives. It is truly a trying time for music fans and business employees and it is a way for them to give back to their favorite venues that have given them so much over the years.
Read more about NIVA and learn how you can take action at their website.