Soundcheck to return with shortened schedule

Event organizers planning around bridge closures

Posted

Planning is already underway for Soundcheck, the beloved music event centered on highlighting local musicians in local venues.

While many know Soundcheck as the exciting, weeklong pre-game to THING in August, this year organizers are shortening the event to four days as it will not coincide with THING.

Soundcheck is set for the weekend before THING, from Thursday, Aug. 17 to Sunday, Aug. 20.

Speaking to the Port Townsend Arts Commission on March 2, Soundcheck organizer Gage Pacifera discussed the new changes to the event while pitching for funding.

“This year, it’s going to be a little different. We’re doing the weekend before THING and focusing really more on a smaller, more concentrated set of days,” Pacifera said. “It’s going to be a little more local this year.”

Part of the localized plan stems from the announced weekend closures of the Hood Canal Bridge this summer. The bridge will close down for repairs from 11 p.m. to 4 a.m. Fridays through Mondays for four weekends, including the Aug. 17 to Aug. 20 weekend of Soundcheck.

“It’s going to be harder getting people from out of town on those weekends,” Pacifera said.

Soundcheck will “probably try to put more advertising into more nearby places like Port Angeles and Sequim and bring people from closer in,” Pacifera added.

While many plans are preliminary, Soundcheck organizers plan to continue showcasing local artists in local venues.

The organization is also partnering with the Port Townsend Creative District for the festivities.

“There were two goals last time around, and some of the same goals this time around, too,” Pacifera said. “One is to showcase our local arts scene and artists, and the other is to give a draw for tourists to come here and come discover our town in a really nice way.”

While members of the Arts Commission shared interest in supporting Soundcheck’s $3,000 request, the commission turned down approving assistance due to the event being four-plus months out.

Soundcheck is currently making a call for artists and volunteers.

Volunteers and/or artists interested in participating in the event or designing the 2023 Soundcheck poster for a $250 honorarium can reach out at tinyurl.com/Soundcheck2023.

For more information about Soundcheck, go to ptsoundcheck.com.