The Cactus Cafe is more than just a listening room and bar. Since 1979, it’s been a center of the Americana music scene in Texas, acquiring a national reputation showcasing top music acts, including Lyle Lovett, Robert Earl Keen, Lucinda Williams, Nanci Griffith, Alison Krauss, and Townes Van Zandt). This pivotal role makes the Cactus a hub that brings cultural enrichment to Austin -- the “Live Music Capital of the World.”
The venue also is a place to give emerging talent their start. The popular Tuesday night open mics give UT students and local young musicians a chance to play and practice in front of a supportive crowd. Some open micers have gone on to play their own shows at the Cactus, as well as paid performances at other venues in Austin.
To sustain this historic landmark, the Unions must ensure fair compensation for artists, bartenders, and professionals who book talent, manage the soundboard, and provide musicians with the support needed to perform. While similar venues around Austin have closed their door –Threadgills, The Lost Well, Stay Gold, Shady Grove— the Cactus has continued to bring the Austin community local music.
We are fundraising so we can keep bringing top talent to play the Cactus and provide a nurturing environment for open micers. This historic venue benefits students and the Central Texas community with some of the best musical talent the world has to offer.
