The first few weeks weren’t all that easy for a new stage and a new stage manager. The production manager and the setup crew leader weren’t quite sure how to place my stage -- all the other stages and tents were either screaming promotions or blasting dubstep. I had to prove myself out on the field and show everyone what I was trying to accomplish, and the situation improved as the tour progressed.

By the time we hit Chicago -- half way through the tour -- the stage did so well that the Tour Producer, Kevin Lyman, gave me a second tent to accommodate the crowds. Not only did attendees become familiar with the stage and seek it out at each Warped date, but other bands also took note and got involved. Main stage bands like Anti-Flag, Yellowcard, and other notable acts such as John Nolan of Taking Back Sunday, Sleeping With Sirens and Make Do and Mend all made appearances on the Acoustic Basement stage. It made each day new and different for Warped-goers and gave future attendees some surprises to look forward to. Each day was better and better right up until the end in Portland, OR.

This stage didn't just work because of what I put into it, it worked because everyone involved did their part to make the experience awesome for everyone. From Ryan and Jake running sound and helping with tent and stage setup, to the artists all pitching in to help pack and unpack trucks, watch each other’s merch and generally just help everyone make it through each 100+ degree day in the sun -- the Acoustic Basement crew had become a gang. The camaraderie that grew in creating this stage was hands down my favorite part of the whole experience and made it worth all the work I put into making it happen.

The Day I Rode the Lightning on Warped Tour

Guest Blog

Warped Stories: The Acoustic Basement Is a Gang

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