Quick opinion so far on this thread. Yes - market forces will dictate whether any club (PayClub in this context) surives. Keep booking the names that people's lower income can manage and no problem. That means of cvourse that any artistmust lower prices to accomodate - all other things being equal.

If they're not prepared to, they become a product fewer punters will be prepared to buy. It's also an opportunity for lesser known artists to jump in with a fee the PayClub can afford to take a risk on - provided supporters are prepared to trust the Organisers' judgement; AND provided supporters are aware that there are a lot of lesser known performers as good as or bettter than the Big Names that the Folk Media. wrongly, has trained punters to believe are the best.

As for me - I never pay to see anyone, don't want to either. I can see some excellent singers and songwriters at the singarounds and other free Clubs in my travel-home-same-night area! Don't need the Big Names.

Ian Fyvie