The Space (Connecticut)

The Space is an all-ages, multicultural music and arts venue in Hamden, Connecticut, a suburb of New Haven. It mostly features local and regional music, mostly of the folk and rock genres, but also hosts poetry nights, open-mics and other types of performances. It is staffed completely by volunteers and is alcohol free, instead offering over 100 kinds of tea.

History

The Space was founded by Steve Rodgers of the band Mighty Purple. As more musicians began to use The Space to rehearse, an open-mic was organized. As it evolved more into a public venue, it was designed to represent features of small venues around the country, featuring couches and other living room-style seating. Rodgers moved it from an informal performance and rehearsal area in a basement to its current, 5000-square-foot location in 2003.

Performances

The Space typically hosts folk and rock musicians from Connecticut and the New England area. However, it also has been host to many touring acts, such as John Vanderslice, Headlights, ZOX, Keith Kane, The Dresden Dolls, Pete Francis, My Brightest Diamond, Ian MacKaye, Kaki King, and more.

Open-mics are typically hosted on Tuesdays, with one performer being featured. The Space also organizes a "battle of the bands" every year.