In the early part of 2010, the popular underground venue known as the Warehouse was forced to shut down by the City of Tacoma. The residents of the Warehouse proved intrepid in their desire to bring exciting shows to the people of Tacoma, regardless of whether they had a permanent, proper venue in which to hold them. They - Adam Ydstie, Katie Lowery, and Doug Stoeckicht - became a collective of show promoters, and continue to book shows around town under the moniker of the Warehouse.

"We are keeping on and making the best of not having a home," says Ydstie. "We are enjoying being more of a production company that is able to craft a show and produce it in a space that is conducive to the experience we are going after. Sometimes a big empty warehouse suits the show. Sometimes a small art gallery or a living room is what's best. Our end goal is find a permanent place to call home. A place that cultivates community, collaboration and a fostering of the arts in general."

In June the Warehouse started a series of house shows that will run until the end of the summer. Two shows have taken place so far, with two more to come.

"This series came about as a way for us to bring nationally touring bands to Tacoma even though they have proximity clauses due to local festivals and other shows," says Ydstie. "These proximity clauses often black out Tacoma as a place to play because of its proximity to Seattle."

What began as a clever way to avoid conflicts with festivals - booking shows at non-traditional venues - has developed into a unique and unusual series of house shows.

"We are all about the experience at the Warehouse," says Ydstie. "We want guests and musicians to experience something special at our shows. A house show is a perfect way to create an experience because of their intimate feel and ability to bring people together. We share meals, drink and song."

Ydstie expresses that he wants to make the series an annual event, but it would be wise to catch these last couple of shows while you can.

Find more info at thewarehousetacoma.com.

Warehouse House Shows

with Michael Sempert, Gina Belliveau and Nick Sandy, Luke Stevens
Sunday, July 31, 8 p.m., $5
626 N. State St., Tacoma

with OK Sweetheart, Goldfinch
Wednesday, Aug. 10, 8 p.m., $5
1215 N. Fourth St., Tacoma