Can virtual gigs make up for loss of income as the touring circuit remains shut down?

The global live events industry has essentially been shuttered since March 2020. With little to no activity, many artists - and their road crew - have been severely impacted. For India’s nearly 10 million people employed in the industry, the cost has been great, and the hardships many. Many performers have taken to live-streaming in an effort to stay afloat, or to just stay positive. Many others are participating in virtual concerts, saying it offers them a much-needed creative outlet and builds a sense of community for artists and audiences alike. But do virtual gigs make up for the loss of income as the touring circuit effectively remains shut down? In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we look at the nitty gritty of how live performers are adapting to online shows. Presenter: Devina Gupta Contributors: Raja Kumari, rapper, songwriter; Papa CJ, stand-up comedian, author; Tej Brar, founder, CEO, Third Culture Entertainment