The Muse Performance Space: Musicians Clare Church and Pete Lewis Create Nonprofit Intimate Venue Supporting Lafayette's Arts Community Since 2018

Founded in 2018 by saxophonist-turned-drummer Clare Church and her husband Pete Lewis, The Muse Performance Space at 200 E South Boulder Rd emerged from a deeply personal mission to create a nonprofit venue 'for musicians and artists, by musicians and artists,' inspired by similar establishments like the GiG in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Church's vision was shaped by her diagnosis with cranial dystonia—a neurological condition causing muscle contractions and facial pain that forced her transition from saxophone to drums—prompting her strong desire to have her own musical space and give back to the music community. The intimate 90-seat venue with grand piano, professional lighting, and quality PA system hosts diverse programming from student spotlights and classical recitals to jazz performances, creating an informal atmosphere where musicians talk directly to audiences who can respond, dance, practice yoga, or engage with performers during shows. Operating Thursday through Sunday nights with beer, wine, and snacks, The Muse functions as a true community hub supported entirely by donations, with Church and Lewis as primary staff members committed to maintaining foundational values of quality programming and treating musicians and audiences as equals.