Colorado Venues Talk About Reopening — But Will Shows Even Be Fun?

Open this pit up... and then stay there, at least six feet apart. Colorado venues sort of have the green light to reopen, with strict guidelines in place, but some aren't really sold on the idea of socially-distant concerts.  

When — and how — live events will return is something that's been on our minds since our venues shut down in March. With Colorado's COVID-19 restrictions beginning to lighten up this summer, concert venues could open up at 50 percent capacity, or at fewer than a certain number of guests (based on square footage). In some places, they might even spray concertgoers with disinfectant. I've been sprayed with a lot of things at shows, but I'm not sure I'm down with chemicals. 

But, a recent article from The Know expressed a concern we've all been thinking about: will it even be fun?

'The guidelines are antithetical to a good time,' the article read. 

'“Colfax Speed Queen standing 6 feet apart with masks? I dunno,” said [ Hi-Dive] owner Matty Clark, referring to a Denver garage rock band that considers the club a second home. “I want the amps turned up loud and people crushed together awash in sound. You can’t get that feeling sitting at tables in front of the stage.” Source: The Know, read in full here.

The same article explains that venues have about three to six more months to 'make it,' and are on 'life support.'

A recent survey found that 90 percent of independent venues are in danger of closing permanently. Over 600 artists, from Ozzy to Dave Grohl to Billie Eilish, have signed a petition for congress to #saveourstages.

Dear Congress:

We, the undersigned artists, respectfully submit this letter in support of NIVA’s request for federal assistance for independent music venues and promoters across the United States.

We will know America is “back” when our music venues are filled with fans enjoying concerts safely. The live music experience is inextricably tied to our nation’s cultural and economic fabric. In fact, 53% of Americans – that’s 172 million of us – attended a concert last year...

...With respect and solidarity, we, as artists and as community members ourselves, urge you to pass federal legislation that will help #SaveOurStages.

You can read the full letter to congress here.