Bands Axe Shows Following WA Venue's 'Unacceptable' Message To Staff

At least three bands have axed upcoming shows at a popular WA live music venue following a controversial message sent to staff this week.

On Tuesday, Chairman of the Capitol Group, David Heaton proposed a new uniform code for Amplifier Capitol in a message (seen by The Music), in which he insisted female employees could no longer wear the men's staff shirt and only the lower-cut women's shirts.

Despite later apologising for his comments, Melbourne's Storm The Sky, hometown band Make Them Suffer and New Zealand outfit The Beths have since cancelled appearances at Amplifier and moved their respective concerts to different venues in Perth.

As noted by The West Australian, Storm The Sky took to Facebook to address the decision to switch venues. 

"This is blatant sexism and puts women at risk which is completely unacceptable and something we are vehemently against," the statement reads.

"We do not tolerate any such behaviour and want nothing to do with Amplifier Capitol moving forward."

The Beths stated they did not want to "support a venue that shows such disrespect for their female staff and patrons."

It echoes comments made by activist group DAM (The Direct Action Movement) founder Jessica Williams, who added that Heaton’s apology “did not satisfy the community".

“There is a need for comprehensive education and training programs for staff at the Capitol Group,” Williams said.

“The management clearly appear unaware that their request is in breach of the Equal Opportunity Act of Western Australia, and quite possibly in breach of some Worksafe WA rules.”

More bands are reported to also be considering axing upcoming shows at Amplifier.

The Music has contacted Amplifier, Storm The Sky, Make Them Suffer and The Beths for comment.