Reposted from Creative Sask
GiGn, a Regina start-up led by Luc Hart, is researching and building an app that streams live performances to paying audience members. However, COVID-19 poses some challenges for GiGn and the app’s potential customers, as large gatherings at performance venues are currently prohibited. Though not the original plan, GiGn continues to seek out avenues of income for performing artists during the pandemic.
“We recently received permission from the Saskatchewan Government to open a trial, COVID-safe, studio in Regina where artists can come and stream their performance using the app, complete with full studio equipment for high quality productions. Of course, there are no audiences other than those receiving the performance online, and we have to keep the entire team, including performers and technical crew, to less than 10 while operating under strict physical distancing guidelines.” –Frank Hart, GiGn
The app allows users to view the performance from their own smart device and allows artists to be paid via digital ticket sales and the optional “tip jar” feature. GiGn is conducting research interviews with venue owners, festival organizers, and performers with help from the Creative Saskatchewan Research Grant. While travel and in-person interviews cannot be conducted, the team has found that video conferencing has been effective and efficient in the meanwhile.
With many venue owners and festival organizers now realizing the importance of a digital distribution channel for their business given the current situation, GiGn has received significant interest from artists wishing to try out the app. GiGn plans to complete the research stage of the project by mid-summer.
For GiGn app updates, visit www.gign.ca.
