Sloppy, complacent "organisers" whose mantra is "we've always done it like this" contribute to the poor image, do they not?

Y'know, the sort who have a day job which leaves (they say) insufficient time to run their venue. They "haven't time" to sort out an adequate dressing room or overnight accommodation for guest artists or ensure that they are paid the rate for the job. Indeed they often resent paying them at all. It may be a minority but one is one too many and yes, performers can and do vote with their feet.

But so can punters. They should be far clearer in stating what they do want instead of leaving it to the "hardpressed" organiser to decide for them. Then. of course, they have to pay for it but I don't think £10 - £15 a throw is at all unreasonable for the privilege of seeing a good, headline professional act.

It's what small, independent venues (e.g. Slaughtered Lamb, Spitz, Cargo and that ilk) charge and they're always packed because they are far more congenial.

At one very well-run venue I know, the organisers work hard in the interval talking to individuals in the audience, seeking their views and inquiring (if someone's been absent for a while), just why they haven't been supporting the club and what would entice them to come more regularly. From this has grown a "beginners' session" where wannabes can improve and, eventually, progess to open performance.