On the first Thursday of the month, I recently learned that you can have your cup filled with the sweet sounds of local singer songwriters at The Venue in downtown Aurora. It’s a free show that starts at 8 p.m..
I attended the Songwriter Series earlier in October featuring Aaron Kelly with Jenny Bienemann and Pete Jive. The talent was incredible. My friend said that she had goosebumps after a performance.
In fact, I had two friends with me from out of state, and they were blown away by our live music space in downtown Aurora.
I’m excited to see the next songwriter night with Demi Clara Thursday, Nov. 2.
The Venue, at 21 S. Broadway with an entrance on Water Street Mall, not only as host to original, live music on stage, but it offers cabaret-style seating as well as bar seating and general admission seats. They have Basset trained volunteers working behind the beer and wine bar that currently features a cocktail collaboration with The Cocktail Bar at Wyckwood House in Aurora.
Envision a dimly-lighted room with candles on bistro tables and live music entertainment. A small sampling of snacks and candy are available for purchase at the bar, but food is welcome.
It’s often considered a listening room, but not always. The Venue has evolved to be a live music room with dancing encouraged at the front and center dance floor. Dancing surely will be happening at the upcoming Mr. Blotto jam band show November 17.
As part of the crew at The Venue, I sometimes attend shows three or four times a week. Local musician and talent buyer, Scott Tipping, does an incredible job booking bands. It’s always a guaranteed great time whether I’ve heard of the band or not.
Recently, Gustavo Flores AKA Tiwa Bleu produced a show with young, local talent, featuring Cōrduroy and Green TTea and the Tempos along with his own Tiwa Bleu and the Celestial Treaty. It was a treat to see such passion and musical genius on stage from some as young as 15 years.
I’m looking forward to several shows at The Venue this Fall.
If you’re a newbie to The Venue, consider visiting Tuesday nights for Pete Ellman Big Band. Shows that always sell out are the Album Cover tribute series and Great Moments in Vinyl. Check them out respectively November 9 and December 17.
Blues is always hot at The Venue, and Toronzo Cannon will not disappoint December 8. One of my favorite bookings is Brooklyn Charmers who will pay tribute to Steely Dan December 16.
I hope you’ll check out The Venue and see the efforts of general manager Sam Dempsey and Karen Fouts, newly appointed executive director of Fox Valley Music Foundation. A full board of directors and a slew of volunteers along with a small staff are behind the music.
If you are a fan of Christopher Cross or Michael McDonald, then join me at the yacht rock Halloween party Saturday, Oct. 28.
See you at The Venue, our impressive live music room in Aurora.
Here’s a list of upcoming, local events that I’m excited to provide information:
- October 28 Trick or Treat in downtown from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Aurora. Free.
- October 28 Witches Night Out from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Wyckwood House, Aurora. Free.
- October 28 High Seas Halloween Party with Yacht Rockettes from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. at The Venue, Aurora. Wear your sailing best to enjoy soft rock from the 1970s and 1980s.
- November 11 Art and Market Aurora from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Society 57, Aurora. Free.
- November 22 Fill the Bowls from noon to 3 p.m. at Two Brothers Roundhouse, Aurora.
Marissa Amoni is the owner of Marissa Bright, a public relations and event management company specializing in shining the light on nonprofits and small businesses. Follow her on Instagram @marissashinesbright.