This August, hundreds of music lovers across the country will create and host their own music gigs and party, for Oxjam, an event that raises much needed funds for Oxfam Australia in the fight against poverty.
The beauty of gigs is that you don’t need to fill an arena to put on a great show or dance party. Big or small, selecting a quirky venue can make for a memorable event that will get everyone talking. Need some ideas to get you started? We look at some inspiration and tips on how to hold a music event at an unusual venue.
Things to consider when hosting a gig at an unusual venue:
Where is your audience?
Think about your audience and fans. Where do they spend their free time when they’re not at a pub or traditional venue? Popping up at a venue that your target audience already enjoys is a great way to bring the music to them and find new fans. Consider places that people like to gather such as art galleries, museums, cafes, retail stores, laneways, or skateparks. Alternatively, look at places that people go that they don’t otherwise enjoy (but go anyway!), like a laundromat.
Determine your sound needs
The benefit of a purpose built venue is that sound is usually taken care of. Once you’ve selected your out of the box venue, it’s important to do a site inspection at the time of day you/your artists intend to perform to determine what the sound is going to be like. Particularly if you’re outdoors or in an already noisy venue, this could affect how the performance works on the day. Don’t forget to look at things like lighting and the availability of power, you don’t want to be hosting a gig in total darkness!
Keep it above board
While the idea of being chased away by the police is very punk rock, it’s not a cool move for your artists or attendees. Make sure you register your gig with the local police so they’re aware of what’s happening, warn the neighbours, and check out the sound restrictions for the area to keep the peace.
Drive hype and excitement
Quirky venues attract attention, so make sure you spread the word of your unique event online and to music press where possible. Partnering with an event like Oxjam will also help get the word out to music lovers looking for interesting gigs to attend.
Ideas and inspiration for unusual venues:
Stay in and jam
Can’t find the perfect venue or want to host a gig on the cheap? Bring everyone around to your house! Lounge rooms and backyards make great spaces for intimate sets without the overheads. If your housemate doesn’t fancy this idea, a similar vibe can be created at a hotel room. The Art Series Hotel Group have hosted artist sessions called ‘Room Service’, with artists relaxing on couches to perform. Just make sure you clear any gigs with a hotel first before filling their rooms with music lovers — they can help you hire the right space reduce your risk of being booted out!
Highlight your venue with a theme
Organising an entire event around a fun venue and live music is a great way to attract attendees and get the party going. A ‘Flappers and Dappers’ Oxjam jazz party is taking place at a cafe/bar in Hobart, creating a prohibition era themed event to encourage costumes and dancing away the night like it’s 1929.
Taking the show on the road
Gigs aren’t limited to buildings and rooms; Melbourne’s Tram Sessions and Sydney’s Train Tracks takes music to the streets by having artists perform on public transport to liven up commutes. These sessions are usually impromptu or free — so not the best for driving ticket sales — but the spontaneity and buzz driven by the surprise generates great exposure for the artists and group involved for future events.
Interested in hosting your own gig for Oxjam? Head to the Oxjam website to get started.
