FAQ
What is BPM?
BLUE PORTLAND MAINE (or BPM) originally opened in 2005 in a room half its current size. The business has changed hands a few times since then, and each holder has helped the room evolve into a place where local, regional, and international talent perform regularly.
The venue has been mentioned in Rolling Stone, The New York Times, as well as the Portland Museum of Art Magazine (2024, Volume I) which states: "Real cities need places like Blue - casual, fun, and unassuming spots where music leads the way."
I heard BPM is now a nonprofit organization - does that mean all fun has been canceled?
No, the fun is absolutely NOT canceled! With the focus now on community building programming, it seemed logical for BPM to pursue nonprofit status. This would make the organization eligible for grants, donations, and various forms of membership/sponsorship. Nonprofit status would also provide for some flexibility in licensing, allowing audiences of all ages to attend events.
By gaining non profit status, BPM is now able to raise funds to cover administrative costs, and adequately compensate artists dedicated to community building events such as open mics, jazz sessions and others. These funds will also compensate sound technicians, provide education and training related to live sound and production, and facilitate live recordings of the meaningful events that take place at Blue Portland Maine. More information can be found here.
What’s the mission, and how do I support BPM?
BPM believes that high quality, independent venues for independent artists to perform and build community are valuable to our culture.
BPM’s mission is to facilitate, participate in, and chronicle community building events in the arts. Our vision is to continue operating an independent, community-building arts space that facilitates high quality performances, creates opportunities for independent artists, encourages collaborative learning, and engages with other non-profits and independent venues.
Please consider supporting BPM - click here for more information!
Where can I find information about upcoming events at BPM?
Click HERE to view our upcoming events! It’s more accurate and up-to-date than your grandmother’s Facebook page.
Is BPM a jazz club?
BPM does book jazz! There aren’t many spaces for jazz, and we maintain jazz programming to keep the tradition alive.
In fact, we host a weekly JAZZ SESH on Wednesdays (much like in other cities) for those who subscribe to the REAL BOOK of JAZZ STANDARDS etc. People can call tunes and play the hits with a backing house band. Most of our weekend shows (Friday/Saturday) are jazz shows, but not all!
What other kinds of events does BPM host?
Ranging from Call-A-Tune style Jazz Sesh, to Salsa Nite, to Punk/Metal/Indie shows, Open Mic music BPM has become a landmark for residents and tourists alike who seek quality, memorable performances.
Do I need a ticket to attend a BPM show?
In an effort to make live music (especially jazz) as accessible as possible, most shows at BPM are Pay What You Can. We recommend bringing $5-20 to support the music. Feeling generous? Bring more!
Ticketed shows are identified as such on our website - for these shows, you will need a ticket for entry or pay at the door. Please note that ticket purchases are nonrefundable.
I bought tickets for a show but can’t go… what do I do?
Tickets are nonrefundable. Ticket sales pay the door person, 80% goes directly to artists, the other 20% pays for costs associated with the event. So even if you can’t physically be in the space, you’re still contributing to the musicians, sound tech, and door person (which is COOL). Who doesn’t want to be cool?
How do I find out what time shows start?
Our website usually states a door time and a start time for each show. “Doors at 6” means our door is unlocked at 6. The performance may not start for another hour or so but if you are confused or anxious or want a good spot to chill just come early. You can eat, drink, and talk… wow!
Where do I park?
Wherever you want/can in our small city. If you think we control the parking division or your vehicle, we are flattered! But we do not.
I called BPM but no one got back to me… what gives?
We only have a phone number because Spectrum will raise our bill if we get rid of it. It’s in our basement and we rarely hear it because we are busy listening to awesome performances! Your best bet to reach us is to email booking@blueportlandmaine.org.
Is this place called ‘BPM’ or ‘Blue’ or ‘Blue Portland Maine’?
Yes!
Is there a drink minimum?
No!
Can I shush patrons who are being louder at their table than I’d like them to be?
No! And no shushing the shusher…
How old do I have to be to attend a show at BPM?
BPM’s licensing is different since becoming a non-profit. We have greater flexibility to include young people at some events. Please consult individual event descriptions to be sure.
Is there seating available?
Seating is available on a first come/first serve basis, and varies depending on the show. BPM does not offer reserved seating, even for ticketed events.
Does BPM have ADA access?
Yes! Feel free to contact us directly if you have any questions related to accessibility.
Does BPM serve food?
We have highly curated selection of pre-packaged snacks.
Does BPM serve drinks?
Yes! We have a full bar menu including: beer, wine, specialty cocktails, and non-alcoholic options.
I would like to perform at BPM - how do I contact booking?
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All booking information can be found HERE.
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Can I rent BPM for a private event?
Absolutely - view more information about booking your private event at BPM HERE.