I lived in Newport News for four years and went to the Norva and the Boathouse all the time. I loved both places, especially the Boathouse, that was just a really neat shack-like venue.
The reason the Norva gets alot of shows that might not play the club up here is due to the fact that it has a larger capacity (I think 1400), and the Norfolk area is still pretty much "mid-market" as far as what is popular. That's why the Decemberists played there and only charged $20 and didn't sell out, while they played Strathmore up here, chargd $40 and sold out right away. See also the Flaming Lips, Death Cab/Ted Leo and Morrissey.
Also, shows rarely sell out there far in advance. I think in the past few months only like Hinder and Brand New sold out more than a week from the day of show, so if you miss out on something up here that goes instantly, check down there...the venue is nice enough that it's definitely worth the drive sometimes, especially when the band is playing Patriot Center/Strathmore/DAR/etc up here.
Originally posted by mutmup:
on another note has anyone heard of the new club that's being built in Richmond, Toad's Place (www.shockoeslip.com)? it's an extension of the one in connecticut but supposedly is comparable to 9:30 and the norva. I hope it brings good acts. while I love shows at the 9:30 club I can't really afford to continue driving up so frequently.
The only thing I've seen solidly booked at Toad's Place Richmond is a date on the Reel Big Fish/Less Than Jake tour this summer.
