The Count Basie Center for the Arts Needs Your Help

 

Today, the Count Basie Center for the Arts joins forces with more than 1,000 independent venues as members of the new National Independent Venue Association.

As both an independent and not-for-profit organization, the Count Basie Center for the Arts relies on support from the public and our legislators to help continue our mission to Inspire, Educate and Entertain.

That’s why we’re asking our supporters to click here and reach out to legislators to let them know how important the Count Basie Center for the Arts is to the community. Together with you, we’ve played a role in bringing our entire region to life and furthering the careers of countless artists.

Just look at the graphic: Every one of these artists have appeared at the Basie Center — some as headliners, and others as opening artists just beginning their musical careers. And with our Basie Academy of The Arts’ School of Music, who knows when the next Bruce Springsteen, Jon Bon Jovi, Charlie Puth, Brian Fallon or William James “Count” Basie will emerge from our region to inspire the entire world.

Unfortunately, independent venues like ours are at risk, and we need you to tell our Senators and Representatives how important the Basie is to you and all of the Garden State.

When the COVID-19 crisis began, independent music venues were the first to close, and we could be the last to open. While completely shuttered, we have no revenue, our employees and artists are without jobs, and normal bills keep coming, regardless.

We have joined the National Independent Venue Association (NIVA), a group of more than 1,200 independent music venues and promoters in all 50 states, to collectively urge Congress to help protect our industry by providing the financial support that is necessary for us to survive the shutdown and reopen once again.

Please join us and support our cause by calling and writing our Senators and Representatives today.

It only takes 60 seconds: click here to reach out to our local legislators today.

Thank you, from everybody at the Count Basie Center for the Arts. We can’t wait until the time is right to welcome you back to our venue.