Alive @ $5

I believe I called this out months ago. Alive @ Five reached a point last year where it could not sustain itself under the same parameters going forward. Enter two new rules - $5 entry fee after 6:30 and no kids between 12 & 21.

The Advocate quotes are registering their indignation and Topix isn't far behind. They hate the acts, the fee, the size, age restrictions, etc.

Let's take a step back.

The fee. Without a corporate sponsor, what's the alternative? City foots in the bill (and in turn the taxpayers) or the people attending the event? Topix was bitching about the costs to the city last year for a free outdoor concert - this year free outdoor concerts put on by the city are apparently an essential service. Let's also keep the cost in perspective, times are tough - by $5 is the cheapest live entertainment event you'll probably find. I've seen bar covers higher.

The age restriction. I do feel slightly bad for the kids, but the event has always basically been a downtown business booster. While food is part of the that for the Columbus Park triangle, let be honest people aren't walking around with chicken tetrazzini in hand. Booze is driving the profit margin for the night.

The acts. Yes, I fully expect 7 headliner choices to satisfy all tastes. You are going to get mainstream acts a few years out of the spotlight and Idol contestants a few weeks short of the finale. There are more than a few venues showcasing local or indie talent in the area that frankly aren't getting the support they deserve. Rack & Roll, Seaside, and Monster B's all regularly feature original music. Alive @ Five is the corporate gig, enjoy it for what it is.