Halifax Live Show Platform Offers Subsidy For American Hosts and Artists
HALIFAX – A Halifax company that pairs entertainers with hosting venues is now offering a subsidy to jumpstart the live performance scene in the United States coming out of Covid. Through the new BACK TO LIVE program, hosts can receive up to $500 through Side Door and performers can get up to $100 in an online digital ad subsidy.
“Through this subsidy program, hosts in any state can apply for financial support to subsidize eligible costs of a live performance event booked via the platform, including but not limited to music, dance, theatre, comedy, spoken word and lecture,” stated Side Door in a press release.
Side Door, which was launched by entrepreneur Laura Simpson and Juno-winning musician Dan Mangan, is like Airbnb, but for performance venues rather than lodging.
Simpson and Mangan noticed that many artists, particularly in the music industry, are shutout from venues because they don’t have an agent, managers, or inside connections. Side Door aims at creating a level field for hosts and performers.
“I envision a world where shows can be booked in bespoke spaces anywhere in the world between perfect strangers in minutes,” said Mangan in the press release. “Playing impactful shows to intimate and attentive audiences in non-traditional spaces allowed me to build a loyal audience and make a living. Until you can sell hundreds of tickets in any city, it’s just the most artistically and financially viable way to tour.”
Side Door, which launched in 2017, features more than 5000 artists and 2000 venues. And the platform is likely to see major growth in the near future; the Halifax-based company recently received a $3 million investment, led by Vancouver firm Rhino Ventures.
The American market is relatively new for Side Door. So far, nearly 400 American hosts have signed up, and 100 shows have been completed or are on sale.
The key to Side Door’s success has been encouraging people to open their own homes, and properties, for live performance. Previous generations used to routinely hire musicians for a little backyard party. Simpson and Mangan what to see that vibe return.
Side Door has helped accommodate concerts in such unique places as goat farms, barns, and even a national park.
“People who have a space to offer can create this ecosystem,” says Simpson. “You can be an active participant in a tour route to help artists come out East and play.”