The Bearded Lady Venue Calls For Help Amidst ‘Serious Financial Strain’
"Where will the next generation play if we go?”
The Stress Of Leisure @ The Bearded Lady (Credit: Bobby Rein)
Another Brisbane venue is in strife, with The Bearded Lady in West End calling for donations amidst “serious financial strain”.
The Bearded Lady, AKA Beardo, posted on social media today, sharing a GoFundMe and a video pleading for the Brisbane music community to help them. The caption reads:
We’re not the type to ask for help easily, but the reality is that without your support, we might have to say goodbye to our beloved Bearded Lady.
We’ve made it this far thanks to the unwavering support of bands, punters, and our dedicated staff over the years.
However, things are becoming more and more difficult. Rising trading costs, inflation, and the increasing cost of living have made it harder to keep the doors open, and unfortunately, we’re at a point where we need help from the one group of people we know truly care about this venue and the music scene — you.
Every little bit helps. Whether it’s donating, sharing this campaign, or even just sending us your positive energy, we’d love for you to be a part of this next chapter. ‘The Beardo’ has always been a space for connection, creativity, and community, and we’re not ready to let it go.
Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for supporting live music, for supporting The Bearded Lady, and for continuing to show up for the magic we create together.
All we can offer in return for you generous donation, is the promise we will keep The Bearded Lady diverse and always welcoming.
The video itself also left a lasting impact, adding, “We are the launching pad for so many bands. Where will the next generation play if we go?”
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In the GoFundMe’s description, more information about the venue’s troubles is provided.
“We have plans to increase the venue's turnover, but those plans require some funding. Through our Go Fund Me campaign, we hope to pay off some existing debt and make some minor improvements, upgrading the facilities and expand the overall floor space, that will allow us to keep the music flowing and the Bearded Lady alive and thriving for years to come.”
Beardo is a beloved Brisbane institution, hosting some of Australia’s best bands and most promising up-and-comers.
Since the GoFundMe’s creation a few hours ago, almost $3,500 has been raised toward the $200K goal.
This is the latest in a series of concerning Brisbane venue news, with Tomcat falling to a firebombing incident, and plans for Brisbane Arena being reportedly put on the chopping block. And, only last year, The Zoo closed its doors for the last time.
As Beardo’s post read, “Please help the Bearded Lady. Keep the Brisbane scene alive.”
This piece of content has been assisted by the Australian Government through Music Australia and Creative Australia, its arts funding and advisory body
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