Bobiks, an arts venue on Jesmond Road, has won backing from Arts Council England, a cultural funding body, to run 24 live gigs between November and January.

The latest lockdown hasn’t brought a halt to these live events, the venue’s events manager has told JesmondLocal.

The venue was only a couple gigs into its 24-event run when the government returned the nation into lockdown. However, November’s gigs will now take place in December, says Russell Poad, Bobiks’ events manager.

Bobiks uses the upstairs floor of the Punch Bowl Hotel, which was originally a disused ballroom. As long as the pub in the hotel stays open, so can Bobiks. 

Poad told JesmondLocal that the venue received financial backing from Arts Council England which gave it the go-ahead for these events.

“It was always our intention to try and put some gigs on,” he said. “Without the assistance of the Cultural Recovery Fund we would’ve only had six or so acts.”

If restrictions are lifted on December 2nd, restrictions will be in place to make it COVID secure.

While the venue has a capacity of between 60 and 90 people, this will be limited to just 20 to allow for social distancing.

Audience members must remain seated during the performances and Bobiks advises visitors that they should wear a face covering during events, and when moving around the venue. 

Poad told JesmondLocal the venue lends itself to smaller, more up and coming acts. “We’re interested in helping people who might’ve found it difficult to get a gig anywhere else,” he said. “We also want to pay them a reasonable amount.” 

Poad believes his events are good for the mental health of performers and audience alike. “We had a few gigs on over the past few months and on a couple of occasions, the artist after has said to me that they’re so relieved to get on the stage,” he said.

“If it’s a hobby then that’s one thing, you’re still at work earning money, but playing music is such an important outlet for these people. It clearly means a lot to them.

“People are stuck in their homes and would like to get out, as long as it’s safe to do so. So it’ll obviously bring a benefit to their mental health.” 

The first gig scheduled after lockdown will see Nathalie Stern play at Bobiks, a day after restrictions could be lifted.

The second act is Roseanne Reid, daughter of The Proclaimers’ Craig Reid, who will perform on December 5th at 8pm.

Even if there was a further tightening of restrictions next year, Poad is hopeful for the future. “There’s always February and March next year.”

Tickets are £5. You can find the list of acts due to perform and purchase tickets on The Punch Bowl’s Website or by clicking here