As a passionate member of the local music scene who has been curating events since 2021, I have faced the unfortunate decision to shut down my booking business due to the onerous parking and venue fees introduced in the past year. This isn't just a personal plight – it's a significant impediment to the community we have spent years cultivating. Our community events and local talent are at risk, and we must rally together to save them. 

RIYAH Booking was created to curate rock shows in the Las Vegas area. We take pride in our events being safe, inclusive, and diverse. The impact the RB team has made on the scene is apparent from the amount of response gotten on the goodbye statement on Instagram. Visit @riyahbooking on Instagram to view and learn more about us. 

We urge the city, local venues, and promoters to listen to our community's voices: Lower the parking prices or provide access to free parking options, especially for community events which thrive on accessibility. This is crucial for maintaining the flow of attendees and ensuring everyone can participate in our cultural experiences without prohibitive costs.

Furthermore, venues must provide adequate security, especially during events like First Friday, which see a surge in community involvement. This will ensure the safety of all attendees, particularly during all-ages shows, creating a welcoming and secure environment for everyone.

We also call for venues to reconsider their fees for promoters – ideally lowering them or eliminating them altogether, as was the case before 2025. It is unreasonable for venues to charge fees ($100-500) while also taking a percentage of ticket sales when they do not provide the essential components for a show. For example, not providing a PA system, door person, or security, yet expecting a promoter to pay $500 to book at the venue. 

Additionally, we urge promoters, venues, and First Friday to cease booking bands and artists with known allegations against them when the community raises concerns. It's essential that we maintain a scene that is welcoming, safe, and only supporting artists and acts who uphold the values of our community.

First Friday charges outrageous fees to vend and these must be lowered to give more artists a chance at sharing their craft. 

Your support can help us make a change and bring back the thriving, inclusive environment we all dearly miss. Sign this petition to urge the city, venues, and promoters to truly embrace community input and prioritize the needs of our vibrant cultural scene. Together, we can work towards a solution that benefits everyone. Together, we can save the local music and arts scene!