Earp's Ordinary Hosts 'Save Our Stage' Event Ahead Of Official Opening

FAIRFAX CITY, VA — Micheal DeMarco has long dreamt of owning a music venue, as something he could do in retirement.

"I have a love of music and wanted to open up a music venue," he said. "I thought there was a lack of that type of space in the City of Fairfax and in the surrounding area."

DeMarco retired about five years ago after working 30 years for Exxon Mobil. He also served as the chairman of the city's Economic Development Authority and was a four-term member of the Fairfax City Council.

In pursuit of his long-time dream, DeMarco bought the old Earp's Ordinary performance space downstairs at 10426 Main St.

DeMarco hopes make the venue a community space for the city, as well as nearby music lovers who don't want to drive to Alexandria or D.C. and spend a lot of money on parking and food just to see a performance.

"We can do that all here," he said. "You can get great upscale bar food here, cocktails and sit down, and watch a show."

Despite extensive renovations to the property, DeMarco found himself in want of funds to complete the performance space before the planned Dec. 20.

"Because of the extensive nature of the project, it took a lot of blood, sweat, tears and dollars as well," DeMarco said. "I find myself ready to open and short on some working capital funds to get the inventory in, etc. We've been raising funds already and this weekend is part of that fundraising."

Beginning at 5 p.m. on Friday and continuing through the weekend, Earp's Ordinary is hosting a Save Our Stage" event, with multiple live performances.

Musicians on this weekend's roster include Holly Montgomery, Rick Landers, Jillian Matundan, Paul Wolfe, Heather Lloyd, Susan Rowe, Michelle Swan, Brent Funkhouser, Kirk Hurd, Sunny at Midnight and Know1Else.

"The artists are are donating their time and skill, if you will, and so that's nice," DeMarco said. "As part of a ticket price, we're going to have a buffet available for people and then there'll be a cash bar as well, and then have some fundraising activities."

General admission tickets are $25, and a Weekend All Access Pass is $65. Patrons can also purchase exclusive VIP memberships for a year of perks.

Showtimes are

• Friday, Dec. 8 - Doors: 4 p.m. | Start Time: 5 p.m.
• Saturday, Dec. 9 - Doors: 12 pm | Start Time: 1 p.m. - 5 p.m.
• Saturday, Dec. 9 - Doors: Open | Start Time: 5 p.m. - 11 p.m.
• Sunday, Dec. 10 - Doors: 12 p.m. | Start Time: 1 p.m.

"I'm hoping that will raise enough funds to get established and get us through the winter months and make sure that we're going to be a viable entertainment space for years to come.," DeMarco said.

More information about this weekend's Save Our Stage event or upcoming performances can be found on Earp's Ordinary's website or its Facebook and Instagram accounts.