Founder of a Temporary Club Pays Tribute to Volunteers

Behind this dynamic, there is a claimed foundation: collectivity. “A volunteer is the backbone of a project… actually, we are a team,” insists Marc Lassègues. He and his team operated the venue for 129 days last year. The shop, stocked with local products, generated nearly 18,000 euros. “We buy the products before reselling them. A consignment sale is not cool for artisans,” he explains. Among the collaborations, the Acacia bookstore from Libourne finds its place, with updated selections every two months reflecting current events. The current theme? “Essentially, the fight against the extreme right.”

Self-Financed to over 70%

A highlight of this anniversary year: “Les Grands soirs,” an XXL version of the in-house festival. Two days, eight bands, and a strong turnout. “We really wanted to make an impact,” summarized the founder. While the event brought in 9,746 euros, it incurred 16,698 euros in costs. “Of course, it’s not profitable… but 16,700 euros for what we did is very good.” A conscious choice, loyal to the spirit of the venue. “We had a huge helping hand from the Confluence Rock association, which deserves applause, as an event like that is not organized two weeks before,” praised Marc Lassègues.

Here, the economic model is clear: “We only make money at the bar.” Without ticket sales, free concerts rely solely on purchases. In 2025, this amounted to 43,037 euros in revenue, with 73% self-financed. The rest comes from grants and sponsorship. Despite the expenses related to the ten years, the club generated a surplus of 1,340 euros. “We managed not to lose money, and that’s great.”

Some Jabs at Local Institutions

This balance doesn’t stop some criticism towards local institutions. While the municipality and intermunicipality financially supported the project, Marc Lassègues laments a lack of presence: “Are we subsidized? Yes. Are we supported? No.” And adds: “In ten years, I’ve seen two officials once at an AGM… We would also like words of encouragement, a pat on the back. Money isn’t everything.”

For 2026, the goal is to celebrate without slowing down. “We won’t make financial extravagances,” he announces, preferring a lighter year. The programming remains true to the venue’s DNA: concerts, exhibitions, quizzes. Moonshine will kick off the season in May, followed by Fabrice Legal in June and the return of DJ Ben Rico in July. Ten years after its creation, the Ephemeral Club confirms its uniqueness. “It’s a place of life,” concludes Marc Lassègues. A space where the economy primarily serves social connection, culture, and collectivity.