Welcome. The Fig is a volunteer-run, live music event which has been running monthly for many years. It started because performers of original music found it hard to find a listening, appreciative audience. The Fig quickly discovered there were many music lovers who wanted to support live music and hear music at its best. Their regular patronage is what made the Fig work until Covid decimated the industry as a whole.
Background
The Fig started in 29 March, 2009 at The Manly Village Church as a way to encourage live music. The church generously provided the venue free of charge, and provided the sound gear.
We were very aware that many artists played in venues which did not cater for listening audiences who wanted to enjoy the music and artists, and give them the respect they deserved. Since we had BYO drink and food – it became like a picnic with the benefits of people not disturbing those around them. We also provided 3 acts per night from a wide variety of genres – so there was something everyone, with some enjoyable surprises.
The Fig was born – a listening venue – where you get to hear music at its best – with many great moments brought about by having wonderful live music with an appreciative audience. It grew rapidly, with about 200 friendly regular patrons/community.
The Fig eventually had to seek new premises – so found a home at Balgowlah Bowling Club – where both bowlo and the Fig had serving community in common. Covid happened, and The Fig had to move again – this time welcomed by Seaforth Bowling Club – who had the space and were looking to expand their community engagement.
The change of venue came with some benefits to volunteers. The church setup/pulldown used to start at 12pm Friday, and end Saturday around 2am, after cleaning. The subsequent venues provide basic table setup and cleaning – and we tweak the setup – to suit the bookings. Hence, tickets are more expensive – but we appreciate less work.
The Fig has had some amazing artists over the years – including some quite well known, or legends in their own right. Our appreciative audience and the fact we invite a variety of styles and original music means artists get to do their pet projects, or simply enjoy the connection with music lovers. Occasionally we get to be the ‘dress rehearsal’ for some more famous artists playing the bigger festivals that weekend, or touring. Variety is the spice – ranging from singer-songwriter acoustic, to legendary punk, rap, opera, reggae, blues, blues on steroids, energy, comedy, delicate, moving, fun, jazz, country, jaw dropping flamenco, Latin, standards, eclectic, fun covers for dancing, seasoned artists and young…
The Fig at a Glance:
1. Provides a listening space where patrons can hear the artists without interference from background talking and other noise. The artists are invariably blown away by the attentiveness of our large crowd of regulars.
2. Supports live music – showcases most genres of music from acoustic to big bands with cafe style seating
3. Provides an inexpensive night out – Food & drinks are available at the club from 6.30pm. Tickets are $20
4. Is non-profit, volunteer-run so proceeds go to the performers – after deducting the costs of the venue & soundman, the door goes to the artists
6. Provides a variety of music – acts can range from singer-songwriters through to big bands who have been playing at festivals, parties & charity events for years. There will be a mix of styles with covers and originals.
Recorded Live by Radio Northern Beaches
Andrew and Sharon start setting up the gear from 4:30pm on The Fig night. They mix the sound live then edit and publish it on the web for listening. The evening Fig program is scheduled and played on a Sunday night on Radio Northern Beaches Live (RNB Live). The radio programming schedule is at rnblive.net.
Contact Us / Interested Artists
Artists interested in performing in future events should email info@TheManlyFig.org or
phone Robyn or Steve on 0490 948 064.
Before booking we need to see a live performance or an online link to one.