CLOSE
x

FOUR5NINE REVIVAL A rosie return


Rosemount Hotel is celebrating the return of live music to four5nine with four5nine REVIVAL, a special event at the North Perth venue on Friday, October 1.
After closing its doors early in 2020 due to COVID lockdowns, four5nine has lay dormant for most of the past 18 months, with ongoing restrictions preventing it from returning to full capacity. This spring will see the space return to what it does best, with a lineup of talented local acts performing on the evening, which also offers the opportunity for artists to meet Venue Bookers and Booking Agents in a welcoming community setting. KWANWOO HAN caught up with Sinead O’Hara, the Programming and Communications Manager of Rosemount Hotel, to find out why it’s an exciting new chapter.

How was four5nine affected by COVID restrictions? And is that why we haven’t seen as many shows there lately?

In March 2020 four5nine closed its doors, along with the rest of the venue for a while there, as COVID-19 caused Perth to go into lockdown. Following this was a series of restrictions on venue capacities and square metre rules. Being a 100 capacity space, it was impossible to adhere to the government guidelines and cover the costs of running events in the room at the same time.

Half the amount of people in the room meant half the amount of venue hire to cover production and staffing costs, half the usual bar take, and most importantly – half the amount of money to be made on tickets for the artists. It didn’t feel to be worth the time, money and effort that goes into putting on a gig for anyone. And so, sadly, we made the decision to close the room.

How will four5nine be different now after the re-launch?

The grant we received from Live Music Australia has enabled us to purchase upgraded production equipment for the room which will enhance the experience for artists who play the venue. I went to a gig there last weekend and it sounded better than ever, which was also largely due to the skills of Simon on sound!

We were also granted funding to go directly towards artist fees, which allows us to offer some acts guarantees to play the venue. This is kind of unheard of for a small venue who cater largely to emerging bands, but emerging bands are the ones who need it the most! That additional funding can help immensely in promoting your gig, securing strong support acts, or can simply be put towards the band and your future plans like recording, releases etc. to build and grow your project.

How is the Rosemount planning to celebrate its return? 

We’re putting on a gig of course (laughs). This one is pretty special. It’s called “four5nine REVIVAL” and it’s happening on Friday October 1st. It kicks off at 5:30pm with a “Booking Agents Meet & Greet” where emerging bands have the chance to meet Perth based venue bookers and booking agents and ask them questions and have a yarn. And yes, we will be putting on a little bar tab for this – get down early!

This is a great opportunity for new bands to meet Bookers from notable Perth venues such as The Bird, The Sewing Room, The Rechabite plus heaps more – and, of course, yours truly Rosemount Hotel – as well as independent WA Booking Agents and Promoters. Following this punters will be able to stick around for live sets from Tash Marie, Hush Puppy, Spici Water & Weekeda! Big night ahead.

 

x