Support Iconic Open Studio - music venue (Melb)

Dear valued patrons, music lovers, and supporters of Open Studio,

We know that you love Open Studio, and we know that you love live music, and we know that you love the culture that is an endemic part of Melbourne and your life.

Unfortunately, after three unsuccessful attempts to secure funding from Live Music Australia and rising ongoing costs (Public Liability Insurance is now up 500% on previous years), we are struggling and desperately need your help to move forward.

The last three years have pushed us to the brink.

18 months of forced COVID-induced closures followed by stop-start operations has taken its toll. The "new normal" is still elusive and the challenges we face make it unsustainable for us to continue.

Over 18 years of live music Open Studio has been celebrated for its welcoming atmosphere, barnstorming party nights, and feature shows and has curated and showcased a remarkable 9,500 performances featuring the talents of more than 48,000 artists.

We take great pride in our role as a beloved and important cultural landmark in Victoria, providing a platform for local, national, and international acts. Open Studio has also been a nurturing ground for musicians and has fostered a diverse community, cultivating a safe and inclusive environment for a varied audience.

This welcoming atmosphere extends to patrons from different backgrounds, including First Nations, women, LGBTQI individuals, CALD communities, youth, seniors, and families, all of whom are well-represented among both the audience and the performing musicians.

Our commitment to continue to present a varied program of live music events 5-6 nights per week is unfailing but to navigate through the next chapter we have initiated a GoFundMe fundraising campaign. The funds raised will guarantee the continuation of our live music program throughout the next 12 months, extending into 2025, with a special emphasis on commemorating our 18 years of operation.

Your contributions and generosity will be crucial in sustaining our live music program and guaranteeing the continuity of this lively and inclusive community space.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all our wonderful patrons, musicians, and staff who have stood by us and supported Open Studio over the last three difficult years. Your loyalty has been the heartbeat of our venue, and we are optimistic that the legacy of Open Studio will live on.

We look forward to the possibility of a brighter future and sincerely thank you for being a part of the Open Studio family.

With gratitude,

Open Studio Management.

Visit our sites here

www.openstudiobar.com.au

www.facebook.com/openstudio.bar/

www.instagram.com/openstudiobar/