Racket is located on 431 West 16th Street, Manhattan, between Ninth and Tenth Avenue. It is a new venue, having only opened on January 7th, 2023, with Real Estate and Cut Worms. It is at the former location of Highline Ballroom, and highly resembles the former venue.
Placed deep into Chelsea, just west of such established venues as Webster Hall and Irving Plaza, Highline Ballroom is somewhat smaller (the actual stage is still up a flight of stairs, like Webster and Fillmore).. It leans less into the classy than Highline Ballroom did or nearby Hiro Ballroom. There are seated sections on both sides, plus a rather large balcony section. Bars are located at the back-left and back-right of the stage floor, along with in the balcony.
After Highline Ballroom’s rather schizophrenic booking, ranging from punk to high-brow, Racket seems to be leaning more into the indie-rock, who have the kind of fans who’d go to Chelsea. The lighting and sound system are strong, and of course drinks aren’t cheap (this is a venue that opened after COVID). While Highline Ballroom definitely had some success, it never quite found its footing, but Racket is off to a good start.
Capacity: 650
Address:
431 West 16th Street (Between Ninth and Tenth Avenue)
By Subway:
A, C, E & L trains to 14th St. – walk one-and-a-half blocks west on North side of 16th street
1, 2 & 3 trains to 14th St. – walk two-and-a-half blocks west on North side of 16th street
QRO Coverage:
-Ben Kweller, November 19th, 2023 – photos
-The Hives, May 16th, 2023 – live review, photos
-UPSAHL, May 5th, 2023 – live review, photos
-American Authors, February 18th, 2023 – photos
