“Any community’s art scene is indicative of the quality of life in that community. So, while playing shows to 80 friends may seem trivial in the scope of things, it really carries more weight. It carries a lot of weight to society as (a) whole,” said Charlie Dresser, owner of downtown Naperville’s The 105, about why more suburban venues should receive financial aid during the pandemic.
The 105 was a fabulous spot for people to listen to fantastic live music on the weekends. The venue was starting to make a name for itself in local music before COVID-19 put shows to a halt. Similar to The 105, many venues throughout Illinois are either closing temporarily or permanently.
According to a survey done by the National Independent Venue Association, 90% of independent venues will permanently close due to the financial devastation caused by the pandemic.
Independent venues are losing a lot of money as they are unable to organize live shows. According to calculations by Pollstar, the industry will lose up to $8.9 billion in revenue. To stay afloat, venues had to get creative.
Change of plans for local venues
Because The 105 is not currently able to put on any live shows, they have been renting out space for musicians to create and rehearse music. The 105 has also been subletting to Purple Dog Records in order to keep the lights on. Purple Dog Records has been a gem of Naperville since 2014. When they lost their shop during the pandemic, Dresser thankfully provided them with a new home.
Photo by Demi Proutsos
Not only has COVID-19 impacted venues financially, but it has prevented many from fulfilling their mission, like NCC’s The Union. Since its start in 2005, the goal of The Union was to create music and art events that leave people moved and inspired. Hope Jirsa, ’21, contract manager of The Union, shared some of the changes that she and the rest of the staff at The Union had to make because of the world’s current situation.
“Basically, the main downside of it right now is that our main efforts to have The Union be a venue for the students and the community are on hold,” Jirsa said. “The experience that The Union brings is being completely shifted.”
Since NCC has not permitted events that involve singing, The Union has not been able to put on their typical concerts every Friday. Instead, The Union has planned multiple outdoor events this semester that involve pre-recorded concerts.
Currently, most venues’ and musicians’ livelihood are effectively on pause.
How you can help support independent artists and music venues
One way to support independent venues and keep them in business is to emphasize to your legislators their great contribution to the community. To support The 105, go to Purple Dog Records and purchase a record or a CD. If you are a musician, utilize their space to rehearse and create music. To support The Union, follow them on Instagram and spread the word about their upcoming events.
“Local music brings people together, particularly young people who might not otherwise connect with each other, and it pushes the creative people to be more productive,” Dresser said.
