Chicago's Bohemian National Cemetery, founded in 1877, is still hosting shows under its Beyond The Gate concert series even as the cemetery faces accusations of mishandling human remains, Stereogum reported. Local promoters Empty Bottle Presents have used the cemetery as a concert venue since 2013, and more shows are reportedly still planned there.
Over the years, the series has booked acts including Grouper, Cindy Lee, Kim Gordon and Godspeed You! Black Emperor, building a reputation as an unconventional but respected stop for experimental and indie artists passing through Chicago. The unusual setting, a working cemetery rather than a traditional club or venue, has been part of the series' appeal since it began.
Stereogum's report did not detail the specifics of the mishandling allegations against the cemetery, but noted that concerts have continued despite them, raising questions among fans and observers about whether Empty Bottle Presents will keep the cemetery on its roster going forward.
As of this report, no shows tied to Beyond The Gate have been canceled or relocated, and the series' promoters have not issued a public statement addressing the allegations directly.
The facts
- Bohemian National Cemetery was founded in 1877
- Empty Bottle Presents has run the Beyond The Gate concert series there since 2013
- Past performers include Grouper, Cindy Lee, Kim Gordon and Godspeed You! Black Emperor
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