Since its launch, tickets to Pique have remained pay-what-you-can (PWYC). While the suggested price range has evolved with time, attendees have always had the option of choosing their own price. PWYC is an essential part of Pique because we value financial accessibility and self-determination.
At face value, if Pique didn’t receive any government support or partnership that helped cover its costs, tickets would be valued at $100. Government funding and partnerships help keep ticket prices more affordably priced, but our reliance on grants makes us vulnerable to changes to government funding policies.
So far this year:
28 supporters, or 1%, paid for ticket prices on the higher-end of, or higher than, the suggested price range
856 attendees, or 34%, accessed the choose-your-own-price program and received subsidized tickets
With the cost-of-living as high as it is, we recognize the importance of offering subsidized tickets to community members. We have seen the number of subsidized ticket requests rise in the past year, which is an indication of the financial stress many community members are facing.
Paying above the minimum price – when you can, if you can – maintains equity and sustainability at Pique. It helps balance the scales and builds the event’s resilience against evolving external factors, like government funding policies and inflation.
Your contribution supports not only financial accessibility to Pique, but also:
fair fees and care-oriented accommodations for artists
a diverse offering of high-quality live music and art experiences
harm reduction and community care programs for attendee safety
video live streaming and digital access points that make Pique accessible to people who can't attend in-person
equitable arts employment opportunities for 25+ event staff at each edition
So thank you for paying what you can!