“ is an old building with a lot of old-building problems. Merde performing at The Footlight, courtesy of has been a constant struggle since the week we opened when our basement flooded with sewage for the first of many times,” Regan said. When a business’s intent is creating a community over maximizing profits, dealing with constant repairs and legal fees is particularly painful. By creating a space for emerging art, The Footlight has gradually and organically turned into a home away from home for many locals. Local live music acts can be found playing most nights, while art shows, weddings, zine-fests, stand-up comedy, and dance troupes have all taken place in their event space. The Footlight has been in operation for three years now and has brought a wide selection of events to their premises. We do our best to contribute in hopes to offset whatever negative impact we might have.” “We’ve complained to the city when they don’t keep up the sidewalk or street lamps. We’ve found lost kittens and returned them,” said Regan. “We keep our neighbors’ spare keys in case they get locked out. Staying mindful and keeping the volume down, they have found other ways to support the area. Understanding that their venue is a part of the gentrification wave, the team does what they can to be a good neighbor. Regan moved to Ridgewood in 2013 after a lengthy stint in Bushwick, and even considered leaving the city. None of us have deep pockets or unlimited resources.” The owner boasts of a small turnaround, having kept most of the original staff since opening. “It would not have come to be without the support of the original small group of investors and friends that all chipped in to get us up and running. “The Footlight was my brainchild and a dream I had since adolescence,” said Laura Regan, The Footlight’s owner. This, combined with out-of-pocket repairs for recent storm damage and temporary permit fees while awaiting outstanding violations to be fixed, are pushing The Footlight into an uphill financial battle.įor small businesses like The Footlight, these added financial problems can be the difference between staying in operation or not, especially when an unexpected change in month-to-month operating costs has to be dealt with. Amongst other local businesses in conflict with their landlords, The Footlight has to increase their monthly payments, due to a recent settlement, until a future hearing is scheduled. The Footlight, a Ridgewood bar selected as best music venue by our readers, is in a legal struggle with their landlord, and it is affecting their ability to do business.
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