Life and Death

What they won't be making money on is alcohol. Like The Door, Life is an all-ages venue with no liquor being sold. Their philosophy behind not selling alcohol stems more from the mission of the center as opposed to minors at their concerts. "It wouldn't make sense to sell alcohol while having rehabilitation programs on site," Presley states.

The alcohol issue isn't pressing as Presley and crew think big with upcoming concerts. In March, they are planning a music festival, nabbing many of the bands traveling to and from South by Southwest and have, according to Presley, already booked Mates of State. In the meantime, local and national acts such as Dallas' Salim Nourallah, Airline and Radiant, along with Pittsburgh rock outfit Farewell Flight and Minnesota's Four Letter Lie, are already on the books. Their first concert lineup includes headliner Lovedrug from Cleveland and local bands Hendrick and Ocean's Firing.

The stage, the art and the coffee will all be ready come January 20, Presley states with confidence, and everybody is welcome along for the ride. "I see it owned by anyone who lives, breathes, works in Deep Ellum," Fundaro says. What started as an idea two years ago is about to lower that metaphoric bridge and find its place in the bigger picture that is Deep Ellum.