A blues and jazz venue in Winter Park that has played host to hundreds of musical acts from around the world is in jeopardy of closing its doors after its rent was tripled.
Blue Bamboo Center for the Arts made the announcement this week that its venue, which is located at 1905 Kentucky Avenue in Winter Park, is in jeopardy of closing in light of a steep increase in rent.
In an email sent to supporters of the venue, the organization says that the building in which it is situated has been “purchased by investors” and will undergo renovations.
The statement disparaged the purchase as “part of the ongoing gentrification of Winter Park” and indicated that the rent at the venue will “more than triple” after the renovations.
“After presenting hundreds of unforgettable live performances over the past seven years and becoming a vital part of the local cultural arts scene, Blue Bamboo has reached a turning point,” reads the statement.
The organization is asking supporters to join its “Friends of the Boo” nonprofit extension. Those supporters may make recurring donations of $25 per month.
“Our goal is for 500 people to donate that small amount to help close our funding gap this year,” reads a statement on the organization’s website.
According to the organization, although performer payments are supported by ticket sales, all other expenses including the rent, staff, equipment, utilities, and insurance at the venue are not supported by those sales.
“There is a funding gap every year. A massive amount of time and energy goes to filling the gap, literally to keep a roof over our heads,” reads the statement.
To make a donation to the organization, or to join the Friends of the Boo, visit the Blue Bamboo Center for the Arts website.