In 2007, a conversation between friends sparked a musical revolution in Sarnia.
Co-founder Eric Woolston shared his vision of bridging Toronto's indie music scene with the overlooked potential of Sarnia, a city dotted with empty spaces and brimming with untapped musical talent. Inspired by the idea of transforming these vacant spaces into vibrant venues, Danny Alexander joined the cause, and Empty Spaces was born.
Since its inception, Empty Spaces has become synonymous with Sarnia's indie music scene, leaving an indelible mark on the city's cultural landscape, from its humble beginnings as a series of shows held in vacant downtown buildings, to its current form as a celebrated annual event – Empty Fest.
"Empty Spaces almost broke the floor at Trinity Lounge," Alexander recalls with a chuckle, reminiscing about some unforgettable past performances. Reflecting on the festival's evolution, Alexander notes a shift from multi-day events to condensed, high-impact evenings.
But Empty Spaces is more than just a music festival – it's a catalyst for Sarnia's burgeoning indie music scene, Alexander explains. By providing a platform for local talent alongside acclaimed artists, Empty Spaces has inspired a new generation of musicians and music lovers to embrace creativity and exploration.
"A strong local music scene is everything," he says, highlighting the festival's role in nurturing homegrown talent and fostering artistic expression.
Over the years, the event has showcased the diversity and vibrancy of Canadian indie music while also fostering relationships between Sarnia's music community and Toronto's bustling scene. By bringing Toronto bands to Sarnia and vice versa, the festival has built bridges and strengthened connections between artists from different cities, Alexander adds.
From sold-out crowds at Trinity Lounge to intimate sets by emerging artists like Polaris Prize winner Lido Pimienta, the festival has witnessed countless standout moments that have left a lasting impact on all involved.
Yet, the journey hasn't been without its challenges. From logistical hurdles to financial uncertainties, Empty Spaces has faced its fair share of obstacles.
Empty Fest returned took a five-year hiatus, Alexander explained, due in part to a lack of local concert venues, but re-launched in 2022 at Maud's Variety and Refined Fool London Road.
As the final instalment of Empty Fest approaches this month, Alexander reflects on the decision to bring the curtain down on this chapter of Sarnia's musical journey. While acknowledging the pressures of organizing such an ambitious event, he remains hopeful for the festival's future, leaving the door open for a potential revival under the right circumstances.
"Running the festival solo is quite an undertaking, and there’s an immense amount of pressure to pull everything off financially," Alexander admits. "So, if a grant or some alternative funding falls into my lap in the future, Empty Spaces may once again return from the grave. Stranger things have happened."
Looking back on the festival's legacy, Alexander hopes to be remembered as a catalyst for inspiration and creativity.
"I hope festival-goers have been left inspired by all the incredible acts that have rolled through the city over the years," he says.
IF YOU GO:
WHAT: Empty Fest 13
WHEN: April 26-27
WHERE: Refined Fool London Rd (April 26) & Maud’s Variety (April 27)
DETAILS: Check out the event page on Facebook; For tickets, visit here.