The other day, my fried JP of Ottawa doom metal band Loviatar posted a link to this Calgary Herald article about changes to federal regulations related to foreign performance artists planning on entering Canada. And it's scary insane. Without getting hyperbolic about it, I actually echo JP's concern that this just might send Canada's indie arts scenes back to the dark ages. Prior to last July 31st, artists wishing to enter the country were required to pay a one-time fee of $150 per musician, to a maximum of $450. Since July 31st, each venue planning on hosting a visiting performer, is now required to pay $275 per artist and person accompanying the artists. For a five piece band and accompanying roadie, that's $1,650 as a first expense which each and every small, local promoter interested in booking the artist must now incur.
The $450 one-time maximum cost of crossing the border prior to the new regulations were feasibly absorbed by local promoters. Purportedly, this is done in the name of encouraging the development of local talent. But in that case, what's especially galling is that these regulations are only levelled at bars or restaurants - venues whose primary purpose isn't to act as a concert hall but who are nevertheless the place where indie acts - both local and international - get to perform. Large stadiums and festivals aren't required, either to pay the fees, or presumably to support local talent. According to Spencer Brown, booker for Calgary venue the Palomino Smokehouse,
“They are targeting the little guy, they’re targeting small venues, they’re targeting small business,” he says. “So, me, as the promoter at The Palomino, which will hold 200 people at the best of times, is paying out $425 per band member whereas a guy from a huge promotions company putting on a 20,000-seater for Elton John in the stadium is tax free. (full article)
Affordable shows held in small, local venues that feature international artists are vital to the fostering of a local music scene - especially in rural areas where there's only so many artists and musical diversity to start with. Visiting artists can provide immense inspiration to kids, encouraging them to pick up instruments and hone their chops as a result, or in preparation, for sharing a stage with artists with different stylings, international notoriety and consequently, the capacity to introduce our own artists to the networks in their home countries.
There's also this online petition. Have a look.
