What to Expect
No covers and no requests. Play your songs to a room full of people who are eager to hear them.
You get ten minutes on stage to play what you've been working on. It runs every Monday at Casemates Studios and it's hosted by The Hill Brothers.
Casemates is a relaxed space with seating, great coffee, pizzas, paninis and a good selection of beers. The crowd's a mix of musicians, writers and regular listeners who give everyone a fair hearing.
Whether you're sharing something new or building confidence, it's a great space to play.
Two or three songs played to a live audience. You book a specific time in advance, so you know exactly when you are on. House backline is provided: drum kit, bass amp, guitar amp and PA. Bring your instrument and your songs.
Book a SlotA longer spotlight slot for acts who want a bit more breathing space to play their set. You get twenty minutes to settle in, introduce your songs and make an impression. Slots are curated and filled by application.
Apply NowAn open jam to close the night. Jump in with whoever is up for it, try something different and create something completely fresh. Open to everyone, even if you've already played your slot.
Book a SlotPerformer Information
Everything you need before you arrive. Click any section to expand it.
Casemates Studios & Cafe
Bastion 4, Scott Road
Hilsea, Portsmouth
PO3 5JH
Entrance: The venue is only accessible from Scott Road. Take the last entrance on the left.
Parking: Parking is available on site.
The night feels better when the room is full from the first song. Every performer deserves an audience, and meeting the other acts is one of the best parts of the night.
Ideally arrive for the start. If you can't, aim to be in at least 30 minutes before your slot.
If you're not in the room 15 minutes before your set, we'll offer it to someone else so the show keeps flowing.
There is no check-in process on arrival. Just come in. Your slot is pre-booked and confirmed by email.
Doors open and the event runs from 8pm to 10:30pm.
Smooth changeovers and a great sounding room are what keep the night flowing. We have tuned the backline, drums and cymbals included, to suit the venue so every act sits balanced in the mix.
Please use the kit, including breakables, and the amps provided. It saves space, keeps things moving, and means you can travel light.
The following is provided at the venue:
- Full PA system
- Microphones and mic stands
- DI boxes
- Full drum kit including breakables
- Acoustic guitar
- Electric guitar
- Bass guitar
Please don't rearrange the kit or the backline without checking with the host first.
We support whatever helps you put on your best show. Backing tracks are welcome.
Connection: XLR or 1/4" jack only. We can't accept phonos or mini jacks.
Internet: There's no stable wi-fi at the venue. Download your files in advance and don't rely on streaming.
- Your instrument
- Leads (jack or XLR)
- Personal accessories: capo, picks, drumsticks, etc.
- Pedalboard (if you use one)
The venue has step-free access.
Stages are small, at approximately 1 foot in height.
Seating is available for audience members.
If you have specific accessibility requirements or questions before attending, please contact the venue directly at bookings@casemates.co.uk.
Slots are booked online in advance. Choose a specific time that works for you. Book here →
After booking, you'll receive a confirmation email with your slot details.
Walk-ins are welcome to watch, but slots can't be guaranteed on the night without a pre-booking.
If you need to cancel, use the cancellation link in your confirmation email. Please cancel as early as possible so your slot can be offered to someone else.
Repeat no-shows may be declined for future bookings.
You can book as many nights as you like, but you can only hold one active or future booking per weekly night at a time.
Photography and filming by the audience is permitted at this event. You are made aware of this at the point of booking.
Questions about format, booking types, or guesting? See the Play Live FAQ →
Book Your Slot
Choose a time that works for you. You will receive a confirmation email with your slot details.
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