Community Highlights: Meet Mark Leech of Skelletones

Today we’d like to introduce you to Mark Leech

Hi Mark, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
As a musician in my 20’s, I noticed all ages spaces didn’t last long. More than playing music I wanted a space that was home away from home for kids like me who came from broken homes and violent streets. Thus, the idea for Skelletones.

In 1999 my wife and I began collecting secondhand stuff – lamps, tables, chairs, couches – anything we could use to create a warm, welcoming space with a stage and a small coffee bar.

In 2000 we walked through the spot we’re still in today – in the “artside” district of downtown Grand Rapids. The artside is a contrast of hip housing, small startups, unhoused sleeping on sidewalks and addicts asking for money.

We call it home.

Many hands made it work as we needed plumbing, electrical, restrooms and counters. When we started we didn’t even have a stage or our own sound system. Bands brought their own. It was as DIY as you could get.

Today, we have a stage and house PA. We’ve hosted local and national acts and still do. Many artists have outgrown our small space to go on to selling arenas. It’s a good feeling.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Finances are always a challenge. We don’t serve alcohol which is the bread and butter for most venue. But thankfully our younger patrons have been incredible loyal over the years and we’ve made enough to keep the lights on and the doors open! (plus we work “real” jobs during the week!)

As you know, we’re big fans of Skelletones . For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
We are one of the largest and longest running all ages venues in the country. We are 100% volunteer run. I’m grateful that beyond the shows, kids feel at home here and we provide resources for anyone struggling with mental health and similar issues.

So maybe we end on discussing what matters most to you and why?
People knowing God loves them. Despite how people have hurt them (including but not limited to church people), they are made in the image of God and therefore very, very valuable. One might even say sacred. No matter race, gender, orientation, etc.

Pricing:

• $10 ALL AGES SHOWS

Contact Info:

• Website: https://skelletones.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skelletones/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Skelletones-664928010787418