Site Visit - Metro
This “site visit” is a conversation with Joe Carsello, Senior Talent Buyer at the Metro in Chicago, an 1,100 capacity general admission rock club. We pull together all the bits and pieces we’ve learned about in previous workshops to see how they interact in the real world. The story starts with the venue’s history and journey to one becoming one of the country’s premiere and iconic venues. We’ll then look at the programming mission, production capabilities, and the flow of a typical show day. Along the way we’ll touch on marketing, show expenses and much more. A conversation about the Metro wouldn’t be complete without an overview of internationally renowned SmartBar, and a look at the struggles of live music venues during the pandemic.
Joe Carsello - Senior Talent Buyer Metro
Born and raised in the Chicagoland Area, I've been working at Metro/Smartbar for 12yrs and have been the Sr Talent Buyer for the last 7 years. Prior to Metro is was Tour Manager for 3 years for Kill Hannah, Shiny Toy Guns, The Hood internet and more. Traveled internationally and participated in many major festivals. I started out as a production manager at the late Double Door in Wicker Park for 3 years. Besides working and booking live events, I have a background in live production Audio, Lighting and Staging and have produced many events around Chicago, and nationally.
I currently live in Little Village in Chicago's South West side. I love making music in my free time and always have a couple projects i'm working on with friends (Surgery Boys, Lasers and Fast and Shit)
If you find value in the workshops, and have the means, I’d greatly appreciate a tip to keep this workshop machine running. I will donate a portion of all proceeds to help roadies out of work during the pandemic. Thank you!
