Precious space

Brillobox exploded onto the live music and bar scene in 2005 and developed into a cultural smorgasbord of local talent. But after nearly 15 years in business, the bar has shut its doors for good due to COVID-19.

This is a loss for Bloomfield and surrounding neighborhoods.

Numerous bands and ensembles passed through over the years, some going on to launch successful touring careers. The space’s combination punk rock and casual indie vibe drew crowds of all ages and backgrounds for a bite or a bit of dancing in the upstairs space.

A pair of Pittsburgh natives ran the bar and made the announcement via Facebook to an outpouring of wellwishes and posts of fond memories. Brillobox will be sorely missed. The coronavirus threatens lives and jobs, and small businesses are facing the brunt of the fallout. Thousands of restaurants, bars and independent venues are in danger of closing, eliminating spaces where communities could gather and mix and mingle.

These are important, necessary spaces.

No one knows how long state government will keep such venues under restriction. Until they can open safely, support local restaurants and bars when possible. Order takeout or the occasional cocktail to go.

We can only hope that, in time, another positive, community-minded owner will move into the Brillobox space. To the extent possible, precious local spaces for music, art and community must be preserved and reclaimed.