The Fallser Club
East Falls' Cultural Sanctuary
The Fallser Club occupies a special place in Philadelphia's music ecosystem—a nonprofit community space that feels bigger on the inside than its exterior suggests, much like the TARDIS from "Doctor Who," as co-owner Felicite Moorman describes it. Located at 3721 Midvale Avenue in East Falls, this 5,000-square-foot venue opened in 2022 with a mission to bring connection through music.
The building's history stretches back to the silent film era, operating as a theater from 1914 to 1939 before becoming a grocery store and later housing technology startups. When the COVID-19 pandemic emptied the space, Moorman and her partner Ryan Buchert, along with music director Garry Lee, refused to let it become apartments. Instead, they transformed roughly 100 desks for software developers into a loft-like performance venue with flexible seating, cocktail tables, a den lounge with couches, and an open bar area.
The Monthly Open Mic Experience
Every last Sunday of the month, The Fallser Club hosts an open mic night that welcomes and supports both first-timers and experienced artists. Doors open at 5:30 PM for sign-ups, with performances running from 6:00 to 9:00 PM. The event is completely free and open to the public—no RSVP required, just show up and sign up if you want to perform.
The open mic alternates hosts between Jeff Sabalski and Katie Feeney (of Roberta Faceplant). Sabalski is a seasoned musician with influences from Jimi Hendrix, Tommy Emmanuel, Ritchie Kotzen, and Al DiMeola, who's organized and collaborated with multiple Philadelphia bands and played local festivals like Roxborough Porchfest. Feeney, the lead vocalist and songwriter for the Philly-based Outlaw Americana band Roberta Faceplant, brings her honky tonk energy and welcoming spirit to create a nurturing environment for performers at all levels.
The vibe at The Fallser Club is unlike anywhere else—you genuinely feel a sense of history combined with incredible openness. The loft-like space creates intimacy while maintaining room for audiences of up to 200. All genres and types of performances are welcome, from acoustic singer-songwriters to electric bands, spoken word to experimental sounds. The venue's state-of-the-art sound system impresses music aficionados while the warm, industrial atmosphere creates a dreamlike setting that can transform for any event.
What They Offer Patrons
The Fallser Club serves beer (including kegs from local breweries) and offers food and drinks, with a full bar area. The venue also hosts Thursday karaoke nights and weekend shows featuring local and national artists. The space includes a photo booth, and the walls feature a mural of iconic rockers like Bob Dylan, Bruce Springsteen, the Grateful Dead, and the Beatles with lyrics from their most famous songs.
Because it operates as a nonprofit, The Fallser Club's mission centers on creating community and enabling connection in a highly curated eclectic space intended to energize and inspire. Activism is built into the business model, with dedication to advancing equity and inclusion and creating a more sustainable community for all.
What They Offer Musicians
Limited backline is available—this is primarily a bring-your-own-instruments venue, though performers should confirm specifics with hosts. The open mic provides completely free performance opportunities with no pressure to bring crowds or meet minimums. The supportive hosting creates an environment where artists can experiment and take risks.
The venue's commitment to treating musicians like royalty is evident in every detail. As Moorman explains, they want musicians and comedians who play there to feel like they're participating in a "red carpet" event, whether they're novices or touring professionals. There's no expectation for flawlessness—mistakes are embraced as opportunities for new and surprising paths.
The East Falls location provides neighborhood accessibility while the nonprofit structure ensures decisions prioritize community building over profit. For musicians seeking an authentic, supportive space to develop their craft and connect with East Falls' creative community, The Fallser Club offers rare combination of history, mission, and genuine welcome.
Capacity: 200