LOCAL CHAPEL HILL February 1, 2011

VENUE PROFILE: Juggling Gypsy

BY CHRISTINA DORE

Every town has that little artist hideout. When entering the Juggling Gypsy, it’s blatantly clear that this is not a typical music venue. Surrounded by residential homes and set away from the aggressive downtown scene, it’s a bar, a hookah cafe and an entertainment parlor. Rest assured, those same mellow vibes you get after a few tokes of flavored shisha are present on stage (both indoor and outdoor) and throughout the building, including a back patio that’s cheerfully laden with circus art.

While it’s easily stereotyped as a hippie hangout, the spectrum of patrons and artists that come through The Juggling Gypsy is inexplicable. Even with its chill atmosphere, eclectic genres of all people and music are accepted, from the downtrodden folk artist, the gypsy cabaret troupe, the resplendent 1920s jazz group, the avant-garde noise collective, the psytrance and dub-step DJ, not to mention the occasional outdoor metal show. Along with belly dancing exhibits and fire spinning shows, this place gleefully skates on a bohemian burner ambiance.

For those suffering from claustrophobia, it’s best to keep in mind that The Juggling Gypsy is not fit to house even the 100 persons capacity. This may be as intimate as you get, so a band with nine members may not find themselves in the most comfortable position. However, even with its limited resources, all local and touring musicians will appreciate the assistance of a receptive and tight-knit staff and community of colorful regulars. The venue has a reputation for being welcoming to local musicians who can’t meet the rigorous demands of the larger venues.

Particularly for the fresh band that’s trying to find its path, swing by this cozy spot. Nearly all genres are listened to and acknowledged. No Top 40, and unless you’re exceptional, no cover bands or country.