Meantooth_Grin_at_Edison_Club_Antigo_2012

04/02/2011 - To pay or not to pay: discussion on cover charges for entertainment

It's funny that residents in central Wisconsin think that a $2 or $3 cover charge for a band- is outrageous. I realize that I'm generalizing, because I've met many people who realize that $2 is nothing when getting quality entertainment. But, the general consensus among bar owners is that if they charge more than a $3 cover for a band, the turnout will be about half of what they expected. So what is it about the cover charge that makes patrons re-think visiting their favorite watering hole? We practically BEG to be entertained (because there's nothing to do here), & yet we don't think we should have to pay for it. But why do we feel this should be free? I mean, do any of you have any idea how much the equipment for a band costs? Or the sound system expense- to maintain it and then hire someone to work the sound board while the band is playing? You see, despite the fact that music is a hobby for many bands, the expense of equipment is still high. What if your hobby was pottery, and you were asked to put on a demonstration or a class, and everyone is going to get to participate- but they don't want to pay anything for the class- or to be entertained for 4 hours! It sounds ridiculous, right? So why do people complain so much about paying a stupid $2 cover for a good band at a bar? Your thoughts???