Without alcohol sales to bolster cash flow, all-ages venues often have to think outside the box to attract patrons. In addition to regular shows with such headliners as Poison the Well and Saves the Day, here’s what University Theatre promoter Brian Saliba has cooking for the upcoming weeks:
Die Trying Comedy Show: “Six comics, four rounds and one winner, each round spotlighting a different skill needed to be a good comic,” explains producer/host Bryan Bruner. Adds producer/co-host Brandon Hahn, “We are trying to open Las Vegas’ eyes to the ever-expanding comedic talent that lives right here. Just because a comic has an agent that can get them time at the Improv or the Riviera, it doesn’t necessarily mean that they are funnier than any of us.” (April 21, $15)
10 Bands $10: A Sunday-matinee extravaganza featuring Aftermath Of, Serene, Grocery Store Rejects, Urchin, Take, Newsense, SouLogic, Never*Mind, Navy Jets Collide ... and someone else. Plus, community barbecue on the patio! (April 22)
Bike Rack Battles: In the rebirth of a concept from Saliba’s days at the Huntridge, high-school bands will compete for a prize pack including $1,000 in studio time, a 1,000-CD pressing, free merch and some choice gigs. Saliba indicates that Interscope Records’ Maloof and MySpace branches may be involved as well. (May 29-June 2, Price TBA)