Bluebird hosts free holiday show

This Thursday, admission into The Bluebird will cost you a toy. That’s right, a toy.\nThe Bluebird, in conjunction with Indianapolis radio station WTTS 92.3, is holding it’s 10th annual Toys For Tots benefit show. Headlining is the Louisville-based band VHS or BETA, and also AutoVaughn and American Bang.\nThe Bluebird will accept unwrapped toys that range in price from a couple of dollars up to any amount. \n“Bloomington is a really giving city,” said Aaron Estabrook, director of promotions at The Bluebird. “We would really like to see people spend at least a couple of bucks.”\nEstabrook said he estimates that last year the donations people gave added up to more than the cost of the regular admission price.\nEstabrook said they are looking for toys appropriate for children between 2 and 10 years of age.\nPlaying this show means these bands take a pay cut. Exactly how much, Estabrook would not say, but he said the bands had no objections.\n“The impression I get is that a lot of bands are doing things like this right now because of the holidays,” Estabrook said. “I don’t want to say it’s expected, but it adds a little more to the show than just get your check, play and leave.”\nBrian Long, tour manager for VHS or BETA, said the band had no reservations about the show.\n“When the record label approached them with the idea, they thought it was awesome,” Long said. “It’s for a good cause. It’s kind of like good karma.”\nVHS or BETA has been creating a lot of buzz for itself across the country. The band was listed in Rolling Stone as an “Artist to Watch,” and Blender called it “one of rock’s best new bands.”\n“People love VHS or BETA,” Estabrook said. “They’re on the college radio scene all over the country.”\nVHS or BETA has been on tour for the past six months, and Long said the band has only two more shows after its Bloomington stop.\nAmerican Bang, formerly called Bang, Bang, Bang, will open the show. Estabrook said American Bang has opened for the Black Crowes in the past.\nAutoVaughn will follow American Bang on stage. AutoVaughn recently signed to a major record label and has been touring with the band Rooney, Estabrook said.\n“AutoVaughn is like a hometown favorite here in Bloomington,” Estabrook said. “AutoVaughn is a high-energy, fun, college-rock band. They’re making a name for themselves.”\nDoors for the show open at 9 p.m. Thursday at The Bluebird. Admission is one unwrapped toy appropriate for a child between the ages of 2 and 10.