Best Live Music Venue

JUDGING (25% WRITTEN SUBMISSION + 25% INTERVIEW + 50% ANONYMOUS SITE INSPECTION)

*ELIGIBLE FOR ENTRY INTO THE AHA NATIONAL AWARDS

JUDGING FUNDS REQUIRED: Funds for drinks, bar snacks and any cover charges affiliated with a live music event for two adults to cover the cost of judging.

OVERVIEW

This category is best suited to licensed venues offering live performed entertainment including bands, solo artists, concerts, and performances. However, please note that the majority of points in this category are awarded to live music performances.

To be eligible for this category, the venue must offer live shows or performances on a regular basis and provide a list of events with days, times, and dates that the venue best operates as a live music venue.

The written submission should address the essential elements listed here plus the following:

CATEGORY SPECIFIC QUESTIONS

• A detailed schedule of live music events, including variety and frequency
• Commitment to supporting local and original artists, with examples of recent performances
• Investment in quality stage, lighting, sound systems, and other AV equipment
• Availability and quality of green room facilities for performers, including amenities and comfort
• Well-documented and efficient bump-in/bump-out procedures, ensuring smooth transitions for performers
• Explanation of the venue's purpose for hosting live music, including its alignment with marketing strategies, brand vision, community engagement, or other objectives
• Evidence of acts that align with the local market’s preferences and needs

GENERAL CRITERIA

• Décor and design characteristics
• Design/layout of the venue
• Condition of furniture, fittings and electrical
• Popularity of the establishment

BAR CRITERIA

• Professionalism and outstanding customer service
• Staff neat, clean attired and well groomed
• Knowledge and implementation of RSA
• Availability of a selection of food
• Comfortable and positive experience for customers
• Beverage experience and offerings (presentation, accuracy, appearance, variety, and quality)
• Hygiene and cleanliness

MARKETING CRITERIA

• In-house promotions on offer
• Website – ease of search, use and finding information
• Social Media presence
• Range of promotional products and activities
• Effective promotion of live music venue through advertising and marketing (in-house, website, print, digital, social media)
• Active promotion of upcoming events via social media and other channels

LIVE MUSIC EXPERIENCE

• Ambience – audio visual, lighting, music
• Staff friendliness and knowledge
• Efficiency of operations throughout the experience
• Pricing relevant to local market, quality of the venue and live music performances
• Technology related to purchasing of tickets if cover charge is applicable (ease of booking etc)
• Quality of in-house audio-visual production
• Crowd control techniques, safety, and security
• Promotional material/posters up to date within venue

2024 WINNER - Finnian’s Tavern, Port Macquarie