16/01/2020
Over the last 15 years Karova has been a staple of the Ballarat and regional live music scene, as well as a venue that has built one of the greatest loyal followings. In 2020, we turn over a new page in the venues long history with the revamp and rebrand to Volta Arts & Culture. In an effort to be transparent, we want to tell you a little bit about our plans for the venue in 2020 and some of the questions we’ve had so far.
When are you reopening?
We will be opening early February with our first show happening on Friday the 7th of Feb with the amazing talented Ali Barter doing a solo show. That weekend is packed with excitement as we will see Tex Perkins grace the stage on Saturday the 8th and Sunday followed with a local flare of Joe Ghatt - Luke Spook - Nasal Spray and more coming to break in the venue and round out the weekend.
Are you still doing live music?
Live music will still be a big part of the venue; however, we will also be open outside of shows to the general public. Focusing on a large mix of artists and we encourage local artists to get in touch with us to perform and build shows will be our goal with live music. We will be providing the space in out of trade times for band practice, recording sessions, podcasting and other uses that people require and just need to get in touch to organise.
We are putting an open invite to using the space for other creative showcases and avenues in a bid to boost Arts & Culture further in Ballarat by giving people an outlet to express.
Why did you change the name?
While this was a tough decision to make, in the end, we decided that to preserve the memory and respect the entity that was Karova Lounge changing the name was the right decision. It was a move made out of respect to the venue and the memory of the venue. We decided the best way for us to honour such a venue was to preserve it as one idea, and homage its culture and spirit in a new entity and direction. Upholding the work, it has done for not just Ballarat and its clientele, but also regional live music.
After long talks with many past influences to the venue, we decided it would be a detriment to the legacy to change the venue and keep the name.
What can we expect?
Well, you can expect an open, safe and engaging atmosphere with a focus on Beer, Wine, Cocktails and Spirits. A diverse array of drinks and a dynamic atmosphere. We will be focusing on a venue that is comfortable and engaging as well as providing a good time.
Moving Tap beer options and a few twists on some classic cocktails. Volta will be a place to socialise and engage, whilst challenging your appreciation of diverse acts, events and people.
We ask you to come down and see for yourself.
Finally, out of respect to Karova Lounge and the people involved we will be leaving the social media pages as well as the website up.
If you wish to follow Volta, our links are here:
https://www.facebook.com/voltaballarat/
https://www.instagram.com/volta3350/
