Upon entering The Foyer at 9:30 on a Tuesday night, I am greeted by the low, frantic murmuring of a pair of college students discussing last-minute physics homework, the chatter of a group of friends over a game of cards, and Caleb Farrington busily preparing drinks and serving up cheesecake. The late-night coffee shop was opened in 2012 by Caleb and his wife, and in the following years has built an impressive reputation for delicious cheesecake, great company, and live music.
During the week The Foyer buzzes softly with latte-sippers surfing the web or playing computer games as well as students conversing with friends or cramming for exams. The weekends descend upon the Foyer with a tidal wave of fun and local culture. Every weekend, at least one of a vast number of unique local music acts showcase its art acoustically. These are usually local singers, songwriters and bands. They play original works as well as current popular music. Tucked away in an intimate stage area, couches are peppered with attentive and gracious listeners. Music permeates the atmosphere as a young crowd gathers around tables to play card games, boardgames, and video games. People flock to televisions on which they play Super Smash Bros, Mario Kart, Soul Caliber, and classic video games ad infinitum.
Over the sounds of a cappuccino machine, and while filling a steady stream of orders, the young Mr. Farrington discusses his vision for The Foyer: “In high school, my friends and I never had a good place to hang out late at night. We would always end up just going to Taco Bell and hanging out there until they kicked us out. We always wished there was a place for kids to hang out when places close.” Caleb has remedied this problem with The Foyer. Open from 7:00 pm to 1:00 am and beyond, The Foyer provides a safe hangout for people of all ages to congregate for entertainment and good company when a parent’s house simply won’t do. There is no alcohol and no smoking, and Mr. Farrington strives to maintain a fun but responsible place where kids can hang out.
In addition to fostering positive social interaction among students and young people, The Foyer provides a market to local artists and tradesmen who might have few means of connecting with the community. Local art lines the walls of the shop, and locally roasted Kaffeeklastch coffee fills the cups. A long time music lover, Mr. Farrington explains his ambitions for the Huntsville music scene: “When we were kids, we went to a few hardcore shows, but aside from that there wasn’t much music going on in Huntsville, and that’s something I’ve wanted to change. I wanted to give musicians a place to get live shows without having to go to Birmingham or Nashville.”
The Foyer is a growing business, having recently opened a second location on the campus of UAH in the business center. However, small businesses like the Foyer require regular patronage from the community to stay afloat. It’s easy to get involved at The Foyer. Check out the links below and “like” their Facebook page to stay informed about upcoming concerts and events. You can also contact the owners. If you are an artist, stop by the shop and speak with the staff about booking your band or selling your artwork.
The Foyer
600 Jordan Lane
7:00pm-1:00am
Owner – Caleb Farrington
~phone number: (256) 763-0591
~Email: [email protected]
For Booking – Mike Moore
-Phone Number (256) 479-3590
-Email: [email protected]
Live Concert Youtube series: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_oEnpNjWq9c
Facebook page: www.facebook.com/TheFoyerHuntsville
Website: http://thefoyerhuntsville.com/
