At Sofar, we’re always on the lookout for new, exciting, and unexpected locations to host shows. In 2023, we partnered with incredible hosts all around the world to create shows in jaw-dropping spots. Take a look at some of the team’s most beloved spaces this year.
MUSEUMS
1. Hall des Lumières, New York City, NY
A permanent digital art center inside the newly-restored landmark, Emigrant Industrial Savings Bank. In November we created a two-part event, which showcased the digital art exhibition by prolific painter Marc Chagall, followed by three dynamic musical performances.
2. Skeletons: Museum of Osteology, Oklahoma City, OK
There’s something very special about being in a museum at night, it feels like you’re not quite supposed to be there. Surrounded by 450 real animal skeletons from primates to reptiles and amphibians, the Museum of Osteology is a truly unique setting for a show.
3. Brighton Toy Museum, Brighton, UK
Bombay Bicycle Club wowed fans ahead of their new album, “My Big Day,” by playing a series of Sofar shows across the country. Arguably, the pick of these locations was while surrounded by brightly colored vintage toys on the south coast of England.
4. Madame Tussauds, London, UK
There’s nothing like having Beyonce and Little Mix as backing dancers to ensure you put on your best performance. The iconic celebrity waxwork museum’s ‘Impossible Festival’ was the backdrop for a special show, featuring visits from Bob Marley, Jimi Hendrix, and Freddie Mercury, as well as a host of modern era stars, and of course three incredible Sofar artists.
CHURCHES
5. Saint Joseph’s Art Society, San Francisco, CA
A church converted into a membership-based arts and culture hub. It’s such a beautifully and intentionally designed space – just a magical experience to see a performance there.
6. Epiphany Center for the Arts, Chicago, IL
Built in 1885, Epiphany Hall is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. There’s nothing quite like a rejuvenated cathedral to make those saxophone melodies soar! Check out our IG Reel of this show.
RESIDENTIAL
7. Rafe’s House, London, UK
The literal and figurative home of Sofar. It’s so lovely seeing people realize that this is where it all started and the vibe is so warm and homely. Sofar founder, Rafe Offer, opens his doors and welcomes guests like it’s the very first time, every time.
8. Shoreditch Treehouse, London, UK
An unbelievably cool space that makes guests feel like they’re in a 1970s New York City loft where anything can happen.
ROOFTOPS
9. Virgin Hotels, New York City, NY
It almost feels unfair to put artists in a space with one of the best views of the New York City skyline directly behind them. “Are those cameras on us or The Empire State Building?”
10. Lookout Rooftop, Boston, MA
With a panoramic view of a twinkling Boston Harbor skyline, Lookout is one of the city’s hidden gems.
OCEAN VIEWS
11. Le Poivrier, Mauritius
On a beach overlooking the Indian Ocean is an idyllic spot to discover new music.
12. Cancun Sailing, Cancun, Mexico
A show on the move by Sofar Cancun, who boarded a catamaran to host their show in June.
UNIQUE LOCATIONS
13. Fortaleza da Luz, Portugal
An old cliff top fortress built in 1670 and a recent host for Sofar team in Lagos, Portugal.
14. Holler House, Milwaukee, WI
The nation’s oldest bowling alley, owned by the Skowronski family since 1908, served up the most memorable and intimate Sofar show one of our staff has ever attended.
15. Dirty Laundry, Chicago, IL
Laundromat owned by an amazing couple whose mission is to create an inclusive community gathering space in Hyde Park that makes laundry less of a chore.
Where will Sofar surprise you next? Browse shows near you.
Do you have a special space to host a show? Get in touch.
