We’ve all had the experience of wanting to go to shows we weren’t old enough to see, says Kirsten Aubrey, who as a teenager always resented not being allowed into many music venues.
She’s making life easier for today’s teens.
Aubrey works with Safe Amplification Site Society, Safe Amp for short, a place where people can go, no matter their age, to play or listen to music.
Located at Astorino’s at the corner of Venables and Commercial, Safe Amp aims to create a safe, legal space for anyone to enjoy their favourite band. All shows are all-ages and alcohol free. Adopting an all-inclusive attitude, Safe Amp is accessible to everyone. They even cap admission fees to keep the price affordable and reasonable.
The not-for-profit group was created a year ago this week after many of the all-ages venues shut down and underage bands and concert goers had fewer places to go to be creative and listen to music. Although currently only at a temporary location, this doesn’t stop the group from pulling off nine shows a month.
Many bands are in high school and since Safe Amp doesn’t have an age minimum, it gives young bands a place to safely play their music and create a community, says Aubrey.
“People get a chance to use their creativity, they get a chance to play in their band, they get a chance to meet other like-minded people,” she says.
Working on a first-come, first-served basis, Safe Amp never has a problem filling the seats. “We have way more interest than we are able to accommodate every month, people are very appreciative in having a place to play and having a place to hang out.”
Safe Amp will be celebrating its one-year anniversary this month, and is hosting a birthday bash on April 18.
Looking back on the past year, Aubrey says there have been a lot of memorable milestones.
“The growing moments have been awesome, just the cultural mix of things.... It’s a chance to try something new. If you’ve got a cool idea we’re really open to possibilities, so just get in touch.”
Go to SafeAmp.org for details or to fill out a booking form for your band.
