Chloe Mitchell from OMEARA speaks to us about the venue:
What was the thinking behind launching OMEARA?
London is one of the music capitals of the world, but over the last 10 years our music venues have had a really tough time with around 40% of our venues closing. Music venues, and particularly independent venues, provide a vital space for artists to develop in and for fans to connect with artists. We wanted to create OMEARA to provide a really high-spec, beautiful and intimate space for artists and fans.
We hope to create a well-rounded live music experience led by really exciting artists and partner them up with an incredible sound system, good ticket prices and generally an inclusive and welcoming ethos. Ultimately, we really want to make sure that everyone who plays here or comes to a show here gets the best experience!
What do you think is different about the venue and its programming?
We used the opportunity of building the venue from scratch to create a space that we think artists and fans will love. Everything from the programming, to the unique rustic decor and layout, to our drinks offerings - we want to keep a high level of anticipation in discovering something new. It’s also been really important for us to make the venue accessible, which is tricky in venues of a similar size. It’s brilliant to have a space that makes it easy for everyone to enjoy live music.
Our aim is to create a really varied programme with everyone from the best up-and-coming acts like Jorja Smith and Maggie Rogers, to some of the world’s biggest bands like Pretenders who christened the OMEARA stage! Our live programming sits alongside a massive mixture of clubnights from Neverland parties to the best in techno and house.
OMEARA, London credit Georgina Jackson
Why do you think independent venues are so important for the live music scene?
Independent venues are super important for the live music scene in championing variety in cultural spaces and providing artists places to cut their teeth in. Being independent gives the place its own quirks, and that unique quality definitely adds to what make shows so memorable.
Our whole team at OMEARA work really closely together. That includes everyone from the booking, to the bar team, to the security. It’s incredible to be able to work like that and we think it gives OMEARA, and other independent venues, a certain energy that makes them really stand out and inclusive to everyone who comes through the doors.
Can you give us a taster of the events coming up at OMEARA in the next few months?
We’re really looking forward to the next couple of months! We’ve got Maggie Rogers for her first London shows, the sensational Skott and a residency from Benjamin Francis Leftwich to name just a few. We’re really proud to be involved in Independent Venue Week as well. We’ll be hosting the Radio X X-Posure All Dayer on Saturday 28th January. Alongside our live shows, we’ll have clubnights showcasing some of the best up-and-coming electronic DJs, all of your favourite R&B slow jamz and an immersive circus experience.
There will of course be plenty more surprises along the way… so make sure you stay in the loop and hopefully we’ll see you at OMEARA soon!
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