The Starlighter, an all-ages venue in San Antonio’s Deco District, posted an urgent online plea for financial assistance, saying it’s having trouble making rent.
The performance spot in the the neighborhood northwest of downtown shared a Facebook post from co-owner Jacob Guerrero, stating the bar is “behind on rent” and needs help paying for upgrades. “Our landlord has been working with us, but we’re at the point where we need to bring in some money,” he added.
The post added that the money raised will also help the Starlighter get a TABC license, enabling it to make money from alcohol purchases in addition to ticket sales. Though the bar already offers beer, it presents the transaction as donation-based.
In the fundraiser’s description, the venue added that it’s been unable to invest in necessary building improvements that would “greatly enhance the comfort and experience for everyone who walks through [its] doors.” Those include air conditioning, tinted windows and improved flooring.
As of press time, the Starlighter’s fundraiser, hosted on SpotFund, has raised $830 of its $40,000 goal.
The fundraiser also touted the business as a haven for San Antonio’s queer community.
“The Starlighter has always been more than just a venue in the Deco District,” the message said. “For over four years, it’s been a beating heart of creativity and acceptance, offering a stage to local talents and a welcoming space for everyone, especially the LGBTQ+ community.”
Guerrero, who co-owns the Starlighter with wife Kayla, said the commitment to fostering a community of acceptance and fair pay for workers and performers has taken precedence while the venue was “struggling to keep up with rent and unable to invest in necessary upgrades.”
“I know that money is tight for everyone right now,” Guerrero added on Facebook, noting that even raising awareness would help the business pull itself back from the brink of closure.
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