While once it appeared as though long-time Ottawa music venue the Rainbow Bistro would be closing, local business leaders and donors have rallied to raise money for the beloved club.
The Rainbow Bistro originally opened in 1984, and it has hosted many musical artists through the years. It is known for its Sunday jam sessions, which invite local musicians to jump on stage. The business announced that it was struggling to meet ends meet due to the COVID-19 pandemic and difficulties holding live concerts. However, a group of local businesses came together to help raise funds for the venue.
One donor, MDS Aero CEO John Jastremski, said the saving of the venue was part of a larger initiative aimed at keeping smaller music venues alive and provide spaces for emerging artists:
“The clubs we’re focused on are the (ones that hold) 150 people or less because if you’re a budding musician, you’re not going to go play at the NAC, You’re going to be playing at Irene’s or a place like the Rainbow.”
The group, called the Rainbow Bistro Business Amplifiers, has raised $50,000 to support the venue, with each of 10 businesses donating $5,000. In exchange, the donating business’ logo designs will be placed on the club walls. Owner Danny Siyver, who has run the club since its opening, expressed gratitude for the support.
At the Rainbow’s 37th birthday celebration, there was the announcement of the signing of a new five-year lease, ensuring that the venue will remain open for a long time to come.
The Rainbow Bistro’s location on Murray Street remains open, with local musical acts such as Resigned Arts Collective and the Angelina Hunter Band booked for January. The Business Amplifiers group has said it will continue to help support the Rainbow and other local clubs going forward.
