GARLAND, TX – Situated just off the downtown Garland square at Bee Hippy, the Tiny Stage has quickly become a beloved venue for local musicians and community gatherings since its inception in September 2024. The Tiny Stage is a team effort managed by Carlos Olate and Manny Lopez and serves as a platform for emerging artists, offering them not just a place to perform but also a suite of resources to help launch their careers.
A Creative Space for Community Connection
Carlos Olate is a and passionate community-builder, and Manny Lopez, a seasoned sound engineer with 20 years of experience, have transformed what used to be a simple concrete slab into a thriving music venue. The Tiny Stage now features a charming wooden deck complete with a partition on wheels to frame out the stage and protect the stage from some of the elements—the wheeled partition being an innovative solution to avoid extra permitting requirements. This creative problem-solving reflects the spirit of the Tiny Stage, which is embodied in its logo.
“Our goal is to bring people together through live music,” Carlos explained. “We realized that if you build a stage, they will come. Many rising talents just need a space to practice and perform.”
Supporting Local Talent
Artists who perform at the Tiny Stage receive a comprehensive marketing package that includes studio recording time, professionally produced videos of their performances, and promotional materials like limited edition T-shirts. While they may not receive monetary compensation, the value of these resources can amount to thousands of dollars in-kind.
The Tiny Stage is like Texas’ own Comedy Cellar for music. Manny said, “We provide everything they need to market themselves to venues, producers, and fans.”
Since launching, the Tiny Stage has hosted numerous talented artists, including Solitary Witch, who they credit as headlining the show that started it all, as well as Blue Line, Addie Leigh, Roman Da’Fro, and many others who have captivated audiences and drawn in passersby.
A Unique Origin Story
The idea for the Tiny Stage was born out of the idea of celebrating the Lion’s Gate Portal, an astrological event that occurs on August 8th each year. Chris Fagan, the owner of Bee Hippy, envisioned a vibrant festival atmosphere featuring live music and food from 8 a.m. to midnight. Despite initial challenges, including a food truck cancellation, the event marked the beginning of ongoing musical programming at Bee Hippy.
“We started with just two speakers and a decent setup,” Carlos recalled. “Now, we’ve added lighting, more speakers, and a fully functional stage.”
Community and Future Events
The Tiny Stage has become a cultural hotspot within Garland, fostering connections among residents and visitors alike. The people at Bee Hippy believe there is something special about the location at a central intersection in the city, noting that the venue often attracts unexpected conversations and interactions among community members.
Looking ahead, they have shows booked every weekend through August and are planning to host a music festival on World Music Day, June 21.
Additionally, the Tiny Stage offers an innovative opportunity for busking musicians, providing a space for them to showcase their talents. Carlos mentioned they once had a “Busk Stop” sign, which, although lost to a storm, symbolizes the inclusivity of the venue.
Exciting Upcoming Events
One of the most anticipated events is set for July 6, when The Blue Line will headline with a unique production featuring surprise guest artists and pop-up performances. The show will include an immersive entrance, with a live camera following the band as they make their way to the venue and onto the stage. Named after the Blue Line light rail train that runs through Garland, the band will make a spectacular entrance at the Tiny Stage.
As the Tiny Stage continues to grow, it remains committed to Chris Fagan’s motto of giving 51% to the community. With a vibrant atmosphere and a dedication to supporting local talent, the Tiny Stage is not just a performance venue in Garland; it’s a launch pad for artists.
