Interview with Susie Roberson Owner of The Venue

Thanks to my teenage son, I was recently introduced to one of Dalton's best kept secrets, The Venue. After a good bit of coaxing, I finally agreed check out what the Venue had to offer. I was not disappointed. The Venue is housed in a small, unassuming block building at 425 North Hamilton Street in Dalton, Georgia; just past the railroad tracks. If you blink, you might miss it. But inside, the place is rocking. Decorated in a quasi-sixties type style with band t-shirts on the walls and ceiling, red lighting and a large dance floor, the Venue makes it easy to relax and enjoy the music. And what a sound you will hear! Bands from all over the tristate area come to this place to dazzle patrons with new and original materials. Everything from cover bands, blues and jazz to punk can be heard on Venue's stage. After seeing all of this, I had to know more about owner and operator Susie Roberson, known to her friends as Susie.

Why did you start the venue? What was your inspiration?

Susie - I started The Venue in 2006. My Daughters were of an age to where they wanted to go to shows and there was no local place for them to see shows at. I wanted to know that they were going to be safe when they did go to shows, so I decided to start The Venue and have grown to love it.

Do you take any band or is there a 'try out' period for those interested in booking with the venue?

Susie - I will give any band a chance as long as they aren't satanic.

Is this your only venture or do you have other venues in different cities?

Susie - No this is the only one I have, although I do have friends who own other venues.

Do you have any advice for others that may be interested in starting their own 'venue'?

Susie - You must have a love for music and people to get into this business.

What are your hours of operation?

Susie - The usual hours are 7:00 pm till 12:00 Friday and Saturday night. Occasionally, I will do a weekday show.

Is your facility available for rent to groups looking for space for practice or gatherings in your off hours?

Susie - Yes, I will rent out The Venue for birthday parties, baby or wedding showers.

What you would you like for parents and potential bands to know about your establishment?

Susie - I would like for the parents to come and see for themselves that The Venue is a good place for their kids to spend an evening at. I want them to know that The Venue is not just a business to me. I love the kids that come to the shows. I care about what happens to them and I try to be the best influence on them that I can be.
Bands should know that I don't book over the phone. I use MySpace mostly or my email - reisus2@yahoo.com I have a photographer that attends every show and does not charge the bands. His name is Bradley McCoy. The bands can go to his site and get the photos for free.
www. myspace. com/poeticbradster_1060
Full Venue rules and other information are available on my MySpace page. http://www.myspace.com/thevenuega

There you have it. If you are a new band (or an old one) looking for a place to play or if you are a person looking for something new and different to do, check out The Venue. You might just be surprised.