Wanna volunteer at the Paradox?
Tomorrow night, the Paradox (the fabulous all-ages venue in Ballard) is hosting a Volunteer Open House for anyone interested in working at the club. Staff members will be on hand to answer questions about different ways to get involved with the venue, including promotion, sponsorship, running/booking shows, even fullfilling community service hours. It starts at 5:30 pm and is free. E-mail volunteer@theparadox.org for more information.
You know what sucks about the Paradox? Or, rather, what sucked about the Paradox several years ago (don't know whether it's still the case)?
If a band wants to get a show there, the band has to buy 20 tickets to their show at slightly below door price. They're of course encouraged to resell them at door price to friends and family. That way the Paradox gets its $120 per band no matter what.
I get that the Paradox has to make a buck, but whatever happened to bookers finding a band they like and taking a chance on that band? If no one comes, band and venue lose out and it's a shitty show. If lotsa people come, both win. With the pre-purchased ticket business, if no one comes, band is out cash and has a shitty show and venue still profits.
I know, I know, it's old news that all that venues care about is a band's draw. But still -- especially when you're talking about an all-ages venue, this seems like a shady, The Man-like way to do things.
Welcome to the music business.