I learned so much attending the recent True/False Film Festival in Columbia, Missouri. One of the greatest things they do is to have buskers play before each screening. It’s a great way to warm up the crowd and introduce them to new music being made in their community. It’s something I’ve been thinking about for a little while and after checking with our hosts at the Carlton Cinemas, we’ve been given the green light! I don’t have many connections within the busking world, and Toronto’s Buskerfest isn’t until August, so I thought I’d post here and see if anyone knew anyone.
We’re looking primarily for musicians, but are also open to magicians, jugglers, comics, and other performers. We don’t have a lot of time or resources, though. If you’re interested in playing to our audience (usually between 25-75 people, but we’re growing!), we’d be happy to pass the hat for donations along with a small contribution from us. As well, you could sell merchandise inside the cinema before the screening. Finally, you’d be welcome to enjoy a great screening of short films. It’s not much, but we’ll try to do as much as we can to make it a worthwhile opportunity for you. You’ll have 15-30 minutes to perform in a small cinema (92 seats). Your act shouldn’t require amplification, if possible, though we may be able to arrange a simple microphone or two.
You must have some way to show your work to us without us having to set up an appointment or anything like that. Online links to music or video are best. Our next screening is April 17th, and then there ones in July and October, so if you’d like to be considered, please get in touch soon! My email is my first name @ this web site’s domain. Thanks!
P.S. You should definitely check out the music of Les Trois Coups (Lille, France) and Chimney Choir (Denver, CO), the bands featured in the photos.