Venue #35: Montage Music Hall!

For those who were looking for a Friday entry, our deepest apologies. Sometimes working hard on finding venues means we forget to post. But as an added treat for tonight, we decided to treat you to not only one, but TWO venues! Let's start with the first, shall we?

While Rochester, NY was featured a few days ago with the Main Street Armory, we also wanted to bring your attention to another wonderful venue! This one is a little more intimate, but still important nonetheless! So for our first part of the weekend double feature, check out Montage Music Hall!

Remember, if you like a venue or have any questions/comments for us, please don't hesitate to contact us at BringBDtoEC@gmail.com and let us know what you think! (Please let us know, we want the boys here just as much as you do!)

Peace, Love, & Bonnie Dune! 

~The Bring BD to EC Team

www.twitter.com/bringbdtoec

www.facebook.com/bringbdtoec 

Montage Music Hall:

50 Chestnut Street

Rochester, NY 14607

(585) 350-8559

http://www.themontagemusichall.com

Booking:

Contact Jeremy "Jed" Seaver at jedseaver@yahoo.com for all booking inquiries.

History:

The Montage Music Hall is Rochester’s landmark for live music. We’re located on 50 Chestnut Street in the heart of downtown Rochester, New York. The club has a 20 year history for bringing in some of the best national, regional, and local artists. We support Rochester’s local music scene and therefore consider our local artists family. The venue has a capacity of 300+ and caters to all styles of music.

***All photos and information are courtesy of Montage Music Hall***

Venue #34: Union Transfer!

Another exciting day for us here at Bring BD to EC! The more venues we find, the more we're putting together to share with all of you! (Even if we haven't reached your area yet, no worries. We will be featuring them soon enough.) And now, let's share a new Philly favorite, shall we? It's time to venture to Union Transfer!

Remember, if you like a venue or have any questions/comments for us, please don't hesitate to contact us at BringBDtoEC@gmail.com and let us know what you think! (Please let us know, we want the boys here just as much as you do!)

Peace, Love, & Bonnie Dune! 

~The Bring BD to EC Team

www.twitter.com/bringbdtoec

www.facebook.com/bringbdtoec 

Union Transfer:

1026 Spring Garden Street

Philadelphia, PA 19123

(215) 232-2100

info@utphilly.com

www.utphilly.com

Booking:

The best way to get a show at Union Transfer is to send your press pack to:

1026 Spring Garden St.

Philadelphia, PA 19123

Please list a show history (including where, when, ticket price and what they drew—be as specific as possible). Please allow four to six weeks before following up with an e-mail. (info@utphilly.com) Of course, buying Sean Agnew a Bengal tiger is also a good place to start.

History:

Please check out this link from Philadelphia Weekly to learn more about Union Transfer! 

Philadelphia Weekly

***All photos and information are courtesy of Union Transfer***

Venue #33: Paramount Theatre!

How is everyone's week going so far? I'm sure a little stressful, but hopefully good.

In NJ, there's one huge area that has been overlooked: Asbury Park. I mean, it's rich with music history with Bruce Springsteen & Bon Jovi, as well as a historic club (Stone Pony) and Boardwalk! So today we think it's time to honor the Asbury Park area by showing all of you the Paramount Theatre! It is not only super accommodating (and has some fun attractions), but has also featured some great musical acts!

Remember, if you like a venue or have any questions/comments for us, please don't hesitate to contact us at BringBDtoEC@gmail.com and let us know what you think! (Please let us know, we want the boys here just as much as you do!)

Peace, Love, & Bonnie Dune! 

~The Bring BD to EC Team

www.twitter.com/bringbdtoec

www.facebook.com/bringbdtoec 

Paramount Theatre:

1300 Ocean Avenue

Asbury Park, NJ 07712

(732) 897-6500

Paramount Theatre

Booking:

Phone: (732) 897-6500

Email: info@apboardwalkvenues.com

Fax: 732-897-6539

History:

Thanks to superior acoustics and stage visibility, the Paramount Theatre is the area's premier venue for live performances. This distinguished venue has a unique atmosphere that has been described as being simultaneously grand and intimate, and offers a seating capacity of approximately 1,600 guests.

About the Boardwalk:

Crazy how a tiny seaside residential resort founded way back in the late 1800s grew to become one of the most famous coastal cities and vacation destinations on the entire East Coast of the United States. Having a perfect location didn't hurt. But location alone didn't rocket the city to stardom. A man-made structure sealed that fate. Shortly after the city's inception, a beach Boardwalk was constructed and featured an orchestra pavilion, public changing rooms and a pier extending into the Atlantic Ocean. News of the Boardwalk traveled fast and attracted new visitors from the surrounding areas. The Boardwalk also attracted entrepreneurs and entertainers looking to bring their brand of amusement to town and perform to the Boardwalk's growing crowds. As Asbury Park's popularity increased, so too did the size and offerings of the Boardwalk. In the 1920s, the additions of the Paramount Theatre and Convention Hall ushered in a new era of music and performing arts that still exists to this day.

Like all cities, Asbury Park experienced growing pains and fell on tough times for a number of years. And while the city's popularity and visitor count declined, the unique entertainment culture that created the city remained. In 1974, the now legendary music club, The Stone Pony, opened its doors for the first time. The Stone Pony hosted many native New Jersey musicians including Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes, Jon Bon Jovi and Bruce Springsteen to name a few. Since then, many of the world's most popular musicians have played The Stone Pony and today it is considered to be one of the greatest rock & roll venues of all times. Venues like The Stone Pony, The Wonder Bar, the Paramount Theatre and Convention Hall have not only helped launch many musicians' careers but they also contributed to the creation of an entire music genre known as the Jersey Shore Sound.

In 2007, a new chapter in Asbury Park's rich history began. The Boardwalk started to undergo an extensive restoration process for some of its key historic features, including the Paramount Theatre and Convention Hall, as well as a complete revitalization of the rest of its facilities and the surrounding waterfront area. Today, the transformation is complete and the Boardwalk now combines the original majesty and glory of its past with modern design and sophisticated conveniences. More than 130 years ago, the Boardwalk's entertainment offerings and universal appeal contributed to the foundation and success of Asbury Park. With its new appearance, improvements and enhanced offerings, the Boardwalk is positioned to help solidify Asbury Park's future by attracting visitors for lifetimes to come.

***All photos & information are courtesy of Paramount Theatre & Asbury Park Boardwalk***

Venue #32: Main Street Armory!

Yet another Glee-less Tuesday, but never fear! We're spending the time finding new places for all of you to consider. And today, we venture even further into NY State as we hit up Rochester and check out the Main Street Armory! (This is a huge venue that will most certainly accommodate all the amazing fans the boys have too.)

Remember, if you like a venue or have any questions/comments for us, please don't hesitate to contact us at BringBDtoEC@gmail.com and let us know what you think! (Please let us know, we want the boys here just as much as you do!)

Peace, Love, & Bonnie Dune! 

~The Bring BD to EC Team

www.twitter.com/bringbdtoec

www.facebook.com/bringbdtoec 

Main Street Armory:

900 East Main Street

Rochester, NY 14605

(585) 232-3221

http://www.rochestermainstreetarmory.com

Booking:

For all booking or press inquiries:

(585) 232-3221

scottrmsa@gmail.com

History:

In 1899 George L. Heins replaced Issac G. Perry as state architect; he held the office until 1907. Heins designed armories in the castellated/Richardsonian Romanesque style. During his tenure he designed numerous armories, but to date, seven are known to survive. Heins’ armories incorporate features of castle-like fortresses, including: soaring towers, crenellated parapets, massive sally ports, and iron portcullises. Hein’s armories; however, tend to reflect a more modern and stylized interpretation of medieval forms and details.

The Main Street Armory is by far the largest and grandest armory designed by Heins and is among the most sophisticated early 20th century armories in upstate New York. Reflecting Rochester’s prominent position in the state at the turn of the century, the East Main Street Armory is worthy of comparison to some of New York’s finest pre-World War II armories.

The Main Street Armory, built in 1905 as headquarters for western New York’s 3rd Battalion, is also historically significant for its association with American military history. The volunteer militia (ie: the National Guard) has been and to an extent still is the backbone of the American military system since the colonial era. The Main Street Armory, like virtually all other National Guard armories, remains a prominent visual reminder and monument of the pivotal role played by the volunteer militia in American military history.

The Main Street Armory was commissioned by the state at the turn of the century and constructed by the Army Corps of Engineers. A castle was chosen to represent the Main Street Armory to historically commemorate the original design used by the Corps. Soldiers on their way overseas to fight in World War I and World War II passed through the armory for final training and processing. The East Main Street Armory was used by various divisions of the National Guard and other reserve forces in the Rochester area over the years. The last personnel to inhabit the armory were personnel from the 209th battalion and the 2nd division of the 174th Infantry Battalion of the National Guard. In 1990 the military decided that renovations to the building would be too costly and built another armory in Scottsville to continue military operations.

In the early 20th century, the 35,000-square-foot main arena (designed originally for drill exercises) hosted circuses, concerts, balls, and auto shows. It was the home arena for the Rochester Iroquois indoor lacrosse team in the 1930s. The Iroquois’ most famous player was Jay Silverheels who played Tonto in the Lone Ranger television series from 1949-57. Silverheels played lacrosse under his real name of Harry (Harold) Smith.

The building was also the home of the Rochester Centrals, the city’s first professional basketball team from 1925-31. The Centrals played in the American Basketball League for six seasons. The ABL was the country’s first professional basketball league. In addition to professional basketball the Armory also hosted many high school games and served as the home court for Rochester East High School. Two future National Basketball Association players came out of East High School in the late 1940s and early 1950s. Walter Dukes (Seton Hall, Detroit Pistons) and Al Butler (Niagara University, New York Knicks, Boston Celtics) played their home games for East High at the Armory.

When the Rochester Community War Memorial Arena (now the Blue Cross Arena) opened in 1955 most of the Armory’s signature events shifted venues. The Damascus Temple Shrine Circus left after their 1960 performance. The Main Street Armory remained for mostly military use up until 1990.

It was later auctioned off to Jeff Brongo who for a brief time hosted events in the armory, but was later shutdown for not having a sprinkler system. At this time the armory sat mostly unused for over ten years, until it was reclaimed by the state for non-payment of back taxes.

Today:

The building was then purchased at another auction by local entrepreneur Scott Donaldson, in 2005. He paid only $1,000 for the 138,000-square-foot, 7-story building, as no one else bid for it. The arena floor was covered in pigeon droppings, the birds having been the building’s primary occupants for fifteen years, and the building’s roof, floors, windows, and interior systems were in severe need of repair. Donaldson, who is blind, was told he never would have bought it if he could have seen it. Since his purchase, he has invested thousands of dollars into repairs and refurbishment, making the building a functioning venue for events.

The Armory’s first sporting event was Next Era Wrestling’s Fatal Attraction show on February 3rd, 2007. It had an attendance of 450 fans, despite a major snow storm that hit that night. The main event saw WWF Hall of Famers Jimmy Snuka and Tito Santana in action.

The Armory’s first concert event was held on February 4, 2006, a sold out performance by O.A.R. More concerts followed later that year, as the refurbishment continued. The main arena was restored to accommodate an occupancy of 5,000 people. Part of the basement has been converted into a paintball facility and plans for a full arcade and private gun club are underway. The first floor’s west wing is currently being converted into a restaurant with an Italian-American Cuisine. This restaurant will be able to cater all future events and will operate before, during, and after events. The second floor has been turned into office space and banquet rooms, while the 3rd floor and remaining areas remain mostly untouched. Plans have been developed for usage of the rest of building, but remain plans until more funds are acquired.

***All photos and information are courtesy of Main Street Armory***

Venue #31: The Trocadero Theatre!

Did everyone have a good weekend? We sure did! 

We're back in Philly today with another fun theatre for all! So please scroll down and check out the Trocadero Theatre!

Remember, if you like a venue or have any questions/comments for us, please don't hesitate to contact us at BringBDtoEC@gmail.com and let us know what you think! (Please let us know, we want the boys here just as much as you do!)

Peace, Love, & Bonnie Dune! 

~The Bring BD to EC Team

www.twitter.com/bringbdtoec

www.facebook.com/bringbdtoec 

The Trocadero Theatre:

1003 Arch Street

Philadelphia, PA 19107

(215) 922-6888

http://www.thetroc.com/

Booking:

If you are interested in performing at the Trocadero, please include the following information in an email to trocadero@thetroc.com:

1) band name

2) brief description including if & what other venues/bars in the Philly area you have played

3) band website

4) contact info

5) availability

If you are interested in promoting a concert or hosting your special event at the Trocadero please contact us through email at trocadero@thetroc.com.

History:

The Trocadero Theatre was first opened in 1870, offering musical comedies and traveling minstrel shows under the name Arch Street Opera House. Later, vaudeville and burlesque came to its stage with notable professional showgirls performing burlesque during the 1950’s. The Theatre was refurbished in the late 1970’s for use as an art house cinema and fine arts theatre. In the 1980’s, the Theatre was remodeled as a dance club and finally for its current use as a concert hall and live music venue.

Although the Theatre has undergone many notable changes, the utmost care has been taken to upkeep and modernize the facility while retaining its historical character. The Trocadero is the only 19th century Victorian theater still in operation in the United States. It is listed on the U.S. Register of Historic Places.

***All photos and information are courtesy of The Trocadero Theatre***

Venue #30: Maxwell's!

It's Friday....and we've reached our 30th venue! So exciting to have so many places that we think the boys could play.

Today we're thinking about Hoboken, NJ. It's a fun, thriving area for anyone looking to try delicious food, find the 'Cake Boss', and/or check out live music! And on that note, we want to talk to you today about Maxwell's!

Remember, if you like a venue or have any questions/comments for us, please don't hesitate to contact us at BringBDtoEC@gmail.com and let us know what you think! (Please let us know, we want the boys here just as much as you do!)

Peace, Love, & Bonnie Dune! Oh, and enjoy the weekend!

~The Bring BD to EC Team

www.twitter.com/bringbdtoec

www.facebook.com/bringbdtoec 

Maxwell's:

1039 Washington Street

Hoboken, NJ 07030

(201) 653-1703

www.maxwellsnj.com

TelstarRec@aol.com

Booking:

Please mail all press kits and booking information to:

Maxwell's Booking

1039 Washington Street

Hoboken, NJ 07030

History:

Maxwell's is a restaurant/music club in Hoboken, New Jersey. The intimate venue attracts a wide variety of acts looking for a change from the New York City concert spaces across the river.

***All photos and information are courtesy of Maxwell's***

Venue #29: Rapids Theatre!

This week seems to be dragging, no? But tomorrow is Friday....and we're still finding lots of new places to share with you! 

Today's NY State venue will not disappoint as we head all the way to Niagara Falls! Yes, a little chance for some sight-seeing as we rock out to amazing music! Where, you ask? Today, we're taking it to the Rapids Theatre!

Remember, if you like a venue or have any questions/comments for us, please don't hesitate to contact us at BringBDtoEC@gmail.com and let us know what you think! (Please let us know, we want the boys here just as much as you do!)

Peace, Love, & Bonnie Dune!

~The Bring BD to EC Team

www.twitter.com/bringbdtoec

www.facebook.com/bringbdtoec 

Rapids Theatre:

1711 Main Street

Niagara Falls, NY 14305

(716) 205-8925

www.rapidstheatre.com

Booking:

(716) 205-8925

marie@rapidstheatre.com

History:

This former Movie Theater was built in 1921 and has been restored to all its original beauty. With its columned walls, the grand balcony and sculpted ceiling, The Rapids Theatre has unmatched beauty in an awesome display of craftsmanship and elegance. Please take some time to read the following archived articles from The Rapids illustrious past:

[From the Niagara Falls Gazette, September 14, 1923: "Many Leading Business Places Of The City Have Been Identified With The Street Since The Village Days"]

The Bellevue occupies a lot on the east side of Main Street, south of Michigan Avenue, with 100 feet frontage of Main Street and 160 feet depth. The main entrance is in the center of the building, which is of brick, concrete and hollow tile construction, is given over two modern stores on the first floor and five offices on the second floor. The building has a handsome tapestry brick front. Between the two stores a wide and handsome vestibule leads up to an equally ornate lobby, from which, in turn, one passes into the foyer of the spacious theatre auditorium, which occupies the rear of the building.

The attractiveness of the entrance and the marble and tile vestibule and lobby gives promise of the wonderful beauty of the foyer and auditorium, which is nothing short of captivating. The broad foyer is done in cypress and richly carpeted. The indirect lighting system throughout is of particularly enhancing design and in its soft glow, one glimpses appealing beauty on every side. There is nothing left to desire in that which the art of builder and decorator devises.

[From the Niagara Gazette, May 23, 1961: "Bellevue Will Become Luxury Movie House"]

Plans to remodel the Bellevue Theater to create a new luxury motion picture house were announced today. The change will start at the street entrance and sweep through the entire interior - with the greatest comfort and the newest in technical equipment keys to the revamping. To herald the complete change in the theater, a new name will be chosen soon to replace Bellevue.

Richard H. Hayman, vice president of the Cataract Theater Corp. and Michael J. Harmon, secretary, in making the annoucement today, said that their plans constituted a vote of confidence in the future of Niagara Falls.

"We believe strongly in the future of our city and of our business in particular," Mr. Harmon said for the corporation officers. "Because of this belief, we are actually bringing into the North End of the city a brand new theater."

The Bellevue will close within the next 10 days. The new theater will open, it is hoped, within a month from the closing. Patrons to the new theater will step under a modern, V-shaped marquee with the latest combination of decorative electrical signs. The accent on luxury and comfort will prevail in both the main orchestra floor and the loges. The techinical improvement will include additional projection and sound equipment so that the latest of the screen large picture super-motion features can be shown.

"Structurally, the building is sound," Mr. Harmon said. "We are going to do the remodeling needed to make this a completely modern theater." The gala opening of the newly named, remodeled theater will offer a major motion picture of the summer season, Mr. Harmon promised.

***All photos and information are courtesy of Rapids Theatre***