A new certification programme designed to strengthen the UK's independent venues, promoters and festivals has been launched by the National Independent Venue Association (NIVA).
The Live Independent initiative, backed by concert discovery platform Bandsintown, has been designed to enhance the quality and sustainability of independent live entertainment.
The certification will offer numerous benefits to stages, artists, and fans, with key features including a dedicated website and the opportunity to display the programme seal. Importantly, the independent venues will be aided by a dedicated placement on the Bandsintown app.
NIVA said the Live Independent certification programme represents a major milestone in the effort to strengthen and unify the independent live entertainment community. By offering a seal of certification that recognises excellence and commitment to the independent ethos, NIVA is seeking to create a more resilient and vibrant landscape for music, comedy, and performance enthusiasts nationwide.
Stephen Parker, executive director of NIVA, said: “This certification is a testament to the power of independent stages as sanctuaries for human connection. In an era dominated by publicly traded live entertainment conglomerates, these venues and festivals are the final strongholds of authenticity, where the heart of live performance beats strongest.
“When fans and artists choose independent stages, they’re investing in the soul of their community. Live Independent is our collective promise—to the artists, to the fans, and to the communities that cherish these spaces—that the spirit of independent venues will not only endure but will continue to flourish.”
Who is eligible for Live Independent certification?
Eligibility for the Live Independent certification is open to independent venues, promoters, and festivals who meet several criteria. These include a mission centred around delivering music, comedy, and performance to audiences and fair payment practices for all artists, performers, and creators.
“Bandsintown’s ethos is independent at the core, serving artists since day 1 of their journey” says Bandsintown co-founder and managing partner Fabrice Sergent. “Independent venues shed light on those artists early in their career and we’re proud to work alongside NIVA to help them find the audience they deserve.”
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