Columbia Gets a New “Live Outside” Vibe at the Koger Center!
Oh, Columbia! You’ve officially been gifted something special at the Koger Center for the Arts! As the rhythm of indie rock fills the air, our beloved city is not just showcasing big-name productions anymore. Instead, it’s turning the spotlight onto our homegrown talent, and folks, that’s exciting news! Let’s dive right into what’s shaking at the Koger Center recently.
Rain or Shine, Here Comes the Music!
As we roll into the week, Columbia can expect showers in the morning with cloudy skies taking over the afternoon, possibly switching into a little thundering excitement! The weather is set to flirt with a high of around 70°F, with winds light and variable. So, whether you’re braving the rain or enjoying the cool breeze, nothing will stop this musical train!
Welcome to the “Koger Center Presents” Revolution
Since 1989, the Koger Center has been the go-to place for memorable performances, but hey, it’s time for something fresh! Back in 2019, they launched the “Koger Center Presents” series to highlight local artists looking for a stage to shine. And guess what? When the pandemic hit, Executive Director Nate Terracio saw a major opportunity. Utilizing the gorgeous Koger Center lawn, he reimagined the space into a vibrant outdoor venue that became a home for the “Live Outside” series.
More Than Just Music
Local rockers like Bones Hamilton are thrilled about what the Koger Center is doing. Lead singer Lanier Smith shared his thoughts, saying, “What the Koger Center is doing matters because they’re not just inviting musicians onto a stage. They’re creating a space where our community’s unique sound can be celebrated.” How cool is that?
The lineup has featured talents that many of us may not even know are from our own backyard, including Death Ray Robin, The Industry, and David Rodriguez & the Latin Hustle. And wait for it—Kwasi Brown of Black Nerd Mafia expressed pure joy over performing at such a prestigious venue. “Our name was on the same billboard as ‘Hamilton’ and ‘The Lion King’. That’s crazy!” he exclaimed. We couldn’t agree more!
Support for Local Artists
While the Koger Center has captured Columbia’s hearts, it’s worth noting that they also prioritize fair pay for artists. “The way we treat musicians matters, and it’s important that they are paid fairly for their work,” shared Terracio. This perspective resonates deeply in the arts community.
A Family Affair
What’s even better? The “Live Outside” series has opened its arms wide for families, students, and longtime residents, transforming the Koger Center lawn into a community hub where everyone can bask in the creativity. “It’s about creating space for those who might not have had access to the arts before,” explained Smith. Isn’t that a breath of fresh air?
Weather Challenges? No Problem!
Turning the lawn into a performance space didn’t come without challenges. Terracio noted that “securing proper sound equipment” and hoping for favorable weather were big hurdles. But with the community’s strong support, those hurdles were cleared, and the outdoor music scene is thriving!
The Road Ahead Looks Bright
With “Live Outside” quickly becoming a staple in Columbia’s cultural landscape, Terracio is brimming with ideas for growth. “We’re just getting started,” he said with a twinkle in his eye.
Columbia’s arts scene is evolving, and there’s a genuine buzz in the atmosphere. Musicians like Bones Hamilton are indeed getting the chance they deserve to strut their stuff in a respected space. And trust us—this will surely elevate our city’s creative vibes to new heights.
So mark your calendars, folks! The Koger Center is the place to be, and it’s all happening right here in Columbia!
