With being able to operate at normal capacity a long way down an uncertain road for small venues, Cleveland’s music clubs are getting creative in order to survive.
Mahall’s 20 Lanes in Lakewood, one of the oldest bowling alleys in the country, still functions as a bowling alley as well as a performance space, with three rooms that present live music of all types, comedians, DJ dance parties, burlesque, srag shows, poetry readings, art exhibits and more. It’s been one of the area’s more happening hangouts in the past decade. And it wants to continue.
The club snagged a PPP loan and put its staff to work doing renovations on the venue. But it’s also launched a Kickstarter campaign that’s already raised close to $30,000 — double its goal, with three weeks still to run.
“We want to carry Mahall’s through this pandemic to her 100th birthday in 2024, and we need your help,” they say. “With your support, we’ll be able to open our doors safely with significantly reduced capacity, and most importantly, bring you safe, innovative creative programming.”
One of the most creative prizes is actually the cheapest: co-owner Kelly Flamos will create a reading list for you based on your interests. You can also snag an “I Saved Mahall’s” plaque, a Mahall’s logo mask, a photo print of the venue in the 50s, and Mahall’s tshirts, tickets and hoodies. Pledge $8,000 and get a lifetime pass to Mahall’s — only one is available!
Go here to pitch in.