(Image: Cafe Racer)

Capitol Hill’s Cafe Racer will reopen this week with a benefit show new partner Jody Ramsammy says is indicative of the renewed spirit behind the restart of the all-ages music venue.

“We invite the Cafe Racer family, the village family, and Individuals that would like to be part of change in arts and entertainment in the city,” Ramsammy says of Friday’s “Makin’ Rent” benefit show.

And, to make it clear he’s talking about thriving and surviving in this suddenly big city, Ramsammy adds a special invitation to “our neighbors in Capitol Hill and the corporate world who are willing to partner with us.”

Ramsammy says for the mission of growing a dedicated all-ages venue in the midst of Pike/Pine’s high-rent nightlife district to work, the mechanics of Cafe Racer’s business need to change to include new non-profit arts support and financial backing from the city’s business community. All options are on the table including corporate sponsorships from companies “that share our values.”

CHS reported here on the addition of Ramsammy to the Cafe Racer team joining owners Jeff Ramsey and Cindy Anne after the 11th Ave venue was forced to close over financial troubles and unpaid rent earlier this year. Ramsammy brings a background in tech and finance, and a reputation for spiritualism and wellness to 11th Ave as he has helped to grow Vivid Productions into what he calls “an experiential events company” that “aligns to communities of experience.” That translates to a company that has grown into throwing great parties everywhere from the decommissioned state ferry Hiyu afloat on Lake Union and Lake Washington to the Space Needle.

In addition to Ramsammy’s new energy, Cafef Racer is working with Allied Arts as its fiscal sponsor so that “you can support even More Community Bonding, Uniting, Education, Activism and Love through Laughter, Open Hearts, Fun and Music,” by donating to support programs hosted at the venue. You can learn more and give here.

Vivid will also play a big part in hopes for Cafe Racer’s recovery. Friday’s benefit show will feature several performers from the Vivid stable with more to be announced. And the knowledge built around creating events and experiences will flow into Racer, Ramsammy says.

Ramsammy said his Vivid experiences will help shape a new focus at Cafe Racer on creating affordable, accessible shows that are also safe across many directions. For one, safe from physical violence or harm. For another, safe for people to be themselves in Pike/Pine.

“People don’t feel safe because of their sexual preference. It’s a big part of what we’re trying to combat,” Ramsammy said. “You can come by yourself and feel safe. Cafe Racer will have  performers from all walks of life.”

The goal, Ramsammy says, is to recreate some of the open friendliness he remembers from his cultural experiences growing up in Africa — and trying to restore some of the energy from Capitol Hill’s days before massive growth brought thousands of new residents and plentiful but relatively tiny apartments.

“In Capitol Hill, there used to be this idea of hanging out in someone’s living room before a night out,” Ramsammy said. “But that’s been lost. We want to reactivate at Cafe Racer as the pre event or post event living room that people can access at low cost, and high safety.”

That’s a pretty serious mission statement — the kind you just might need if you’re going to make sure an all-ages club can pay its rent on Capitol Hill in 2023.

Cafe Racer reopens Friday at 1510 11th Ave with a “Makin’ Rent” benefit show. Learn more at  caferacermusic.com.

Cafe Racer presents “Makin’ Rent” in Partnership with Vivid Presents

Howdy Racers! We’re thrilled to announce the reopening of Cafe Racer this Friday for a special fundraiser event in collaboration with Vivid Presents.Spread the word and remember every one is welcome and this is an All Ages event up until 10 PM.

Doors swing open at 6 PM, offering a chance for the community to meet our leadership team, including the talented folks from Vivid Presents, our new programming partners.

The night kicks off with live music by Karina Kope followed by electrifying performances from Vivid Resident DJ’s David Ardila and Eliogold. It’s a celebration of art, community, and the vibrant spirit that makes Cafe Racer unique. Additional performances will be announced later in the week.

Ticket Details:
– Early Entry (6 PM – 7 PM): $10
– Tier 1: $15
– Tier 2: $20
– Tier 3: $25
– Door: $30

Available at www.caferacerradio.com or www.vividpresents.com

For those wanting to make an additional contribution to the cause, you can make an optional donation at checkout. Your generous contributions will support some of the much-needed renovations and investment needed to keep Cafe Racer’s doors wide open.

Schedule:
– All Ages: 6 PM to 10 PM
– 21+ Only: 10 PM to Late

We’ve missed the Cafe Racer fam and are grateful for the support of Jody Ramsammy and Vivid Presents, champions of our community, night life and the arts.

Join us on December 1st for our “back on the block” celebration and fundraiser. Your presence and contribution will help us continue our mission of supporting local and emerging artists, keeping Cafe Racer as the heart of Seattle’s artistic community.

Can’t make it? Consider donating at www.caferacermusic.com to ensure Cafe Racer remains a vital space for local artists to thrive. See you there!

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