READING is set to see a number of events taking place to celebrate Independent Venue Week this month.
The event sees more than 200 independent venues take part in an annual celebration of music and arts venues, joining artists, business owners, promoters, labels, media, and cultural institutions together.
It seeks to recognise the artists, audiences, and communities to recognise the role the cultural impact of independent venues in the industry and local areas across the UK, teaming with the likes of the Arts Council England and BBC 6 Music.
It was incepted in 2013 and saw its first iteration in the following year.
This year’s event takes place from Monday, January 27, to Sunday, February 2.
It is also welcoming artist ambassador YolanDa Brown OBE, the first artist to win a Best Jazz MOBO award over two consecutive years.
Reading-based promoter Club Velocity is celebrating with four events throughout the week.
On Tuesday, January 28, Face Bar, Chatham Street, will host London-based post-punk poet, playwright, and singer-songwriter Gemma Rogers.
The same venue will also welcome Funke and the Two Tone Baby on Thursday, January 30, when the band will bring 90s dance, rock, and alt-blues-influenced electronica.
On Friday, January 31, Eat Daddy Eat will take to the stage at the Rising Sun Arts Centre, bringing Reading-based rock ‘n’ roll.
Back at Face Bar, Oxfordshire-born singer-songwriter Tom Webber will be performing on Sunday, February 2, following performances at festivals such as Glastonbury, Isle of Wight, and Truck.
More information about Independent Venue Week is available via: musicweek.com.
