Oh - chair of the Committee on Global Opportunities and the Creative/Innovative Economy - will announce a bill
to promote Philadelphia as a live entertainment city. He will also announce PHL Live Center Stage, a music festival open to public participation.
"There are so many talented people in our city," Oh said in an interview, "but they don't have the avenues to find success through it."
The councilman said he hopes PHL Live shines a light on not only established local acts but also on breakout stars who otherwise would not have the resources to showcase their talents.
The process is as follows:
Starting Aug. 15, candidates can submit music online (phllive.org - the site is up but will not accept applications until Aug. 15) in 10 categories, ranging from classical to DJ. Three expert judges will then select five semifinalists in each genre.
From Oct. 21 to early November, semifinalists will perform around Philly, vying for the top spots in their genres. Venues will include the Hard Rock Cafe, World Café Live, Silk City, Enon Tabernacle Baptist Church, and TIME Philadelphia. Most venues will charge a nominal $3 for tickets, with proceeds going to the artists.
Winners will be announced at a final concert/award show in December at the Trocadero (date to be finalized), at which they will receive awards such as cash prizes, studio time, and free consultation with an entertainment lawyer. A People's Choice award will also be given, based on audience votes via the app Decibly.
The main focus is not on competition, said Oh, but on opportunity.
Read more at http://www.philly.com/philly/entertainment/20140807_PHL_Live_invites_local_music_acts_to_be_discovered.html#5oXlAri8IdVW29Dw.99
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