Local Guides World
A mix of well-known musical acts play at this happening nightclub with bands, DJs & a full bar.
1011 Pacific Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

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Reviews — 8

Hannah Brown (discobones)
at 2023 Nov 13
Hannah Brown (discobones)
at 2023 Nov 13
Just wanted to say that the staff were incredibly helpful and kind. I'd seen a review on here saying they were the opposite, and just wanted to share my experience. I showed up late to a show there after the opener had finished, as I usually plan to do because I'm in chronic pain and the longer I sit/stand the worse my back pain gets, so I try to miss the opener to minimize the pain I'll be in for the band I came to see. Anyway I came in a power wheelchair, but they didn't have a good setup or elevator for that, and it turns out I should've shown up 10 minutes early to be let in first with the other disabled patrons. But anyway. It was my mistake really, but the staff were so incredibly kind and helpful, they helped my friend find a spot where I could sit and let me park my powerchair somewhere safe. Not only that, but the manager gave me a free ticket to ANY show in the next year just because he felt bad for the inconvenience. Really blew me away!

Other than that, the venue is pretty nice. I always love intimate venues like this where you can get closer to the artists you're coming to see. It does get a little hot and humid in there though lol. Overall I had an incredible experience for my first time there.

Royal Blood!!
Alyssa Serrano
at 2023 Oct 16
Alyssa Serrano
at 2023 Oct 16
Good variety of shows in the main room and The Atrium. The sound could definitely be a bit better but overall it’s a great place to see touring and local bands. The upstairs room was very spacious and the bartender was great.
Mya Hiatt
at 2023 Oct 14
Mya Hiatt
at 2023 Oct 14
Upon entering the venue, we were poorly greeted by staff complaining when the line was going to end. They were upset about how many people were attending a sold out show (less than 400 people in the Atrium) which I found extremely unprofessional. Once in the door, I asked a staff member where the bathroom is, and he rudely responded, “It’s in THERE (motioning to the Atrium), use your EYES!!!” Following this, he mocked me with a binocular motion, leaving a bad taste in my partner’s and my mouth for the rest of the night.

The only thing good about this place was that the mixing was exceptional, I could hear Hojean’s vocals over the instruments. Also, despite the Atrium being sold out, at max capacity there was still plenty of room to dance around and not be in the middle of a crowd.
R.L. Merrill
at 2023 Oct 13
R.L. Merrill
at 2023 Oct 13
Love seeing shows here! I’ve been in two of the venues and both were great. Safe to go alone, parking is easy.
Alisa B.
at 2022 Sep 19
Alisa B.
at 2022 Sep 19
I have been to this venue a couple times over the years. I saw Ekali in 2019 and Niki in 2022. This is a very fun venue if you are interested in seeing performers up close and getting to know them personally. It really feels like they are right in front of you! The venue doesn't have much flashy lights, visuals, or any special effects... It is simply a stage at the end of the day.

They lack a proper air conditioning system or some ventilating fans! It was insanely hot inside the venue and I was finding myself growing warmer and warmer as the concert went on. I felt bad because someone in the crowd fainted mid-show! There were also many people who were stepping out and looked lightheaded... they would have to squeeze through the crowd. Niki was really kind to ask management to give waters out to everyone in the crowd! You could definitely tell, as a performer, she was a bit shaken from the person passing out.

Some Pros:
+ Water bottles at the bar were only $2
+ You could get a good view from most parts of the venue since it is intimate and smaller than most
+ Audio was decent and I didn't hear any delay
+ It was very easy to purchase tickets via ETIX
Bethany Daniel
at 2022 Sep 13
Bethany Daniel
at 2022 Sep 13
favorite venue EVER!! both the main stage and atrium are the perfect size for small concerts. the catalyst always has some fun, upcoming artists performing for very cheap tickets. i’ve always had a great time and have always been at the very front of the stage. staff are super nice here including the ones at the bar (regardless if you are 21 or not).
Christopher P.
at 2022 Jun 18
Christopher P.
at 2022 Jun 18
The Catalyst has space for 600 people between a main floor and two upstair balconies that's after the main lobby. It has an ADA compliant ramp and lift for physically impaired peoples to access the main floor, which I appreciate. The alcohol was considerably expensive, but partly worth the spend if you especially saved up for the occasion. The building is a tad bit dated, but it serves its purpose well, and the staff was incredibly accommodating and kind towards disabled folk. They were friendly and provided the safety necessary for an enjoyable experience.

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