The Coronavirus pandemic has had a dramatic impact on every industry. One industry which has taken a massive beating in recent times is the live music industry. Furthermore, many grassroots music venues across the land and not just Manchester are having to close their doors for good.
Hull has unfortunately seen some of their biggest venues shut up shop and fall into administration. Moreover, the historic Welly Club and Polar Bear are to close which is a massive shame for the nation. Sadly, more and more venues are announcing their closure. But, today we can reveal that two of Manchester’s most iconic music venues are to stay open.
Manchester’s Future
Furthermore, Gorilla and The Deaf Institute had a bleak future looming earlier this week. But, they have been given a lifeline just in time. One of the supporters behind keeping the venues alive is Tim Burgess from The Charlatans. Writing on Twitter, Tim said: “So, looks like the story is out – @DeafInstitute & @thisisgorilla have been saved and will be kept as live music venues as we know & love them I’ve been talking with the new owners over the weekend & we’ll be doing all we can to help with the next chapter”.
Roy Ellis who is the chief executive of MM, which runs the venues, said the deal was “really great news for our teams and the music-loving people of Manchester”.
Moreover, he said: “The bad news announcement last week regarding the closure plans galvanised an unprecedented level of interest from passionate operators from across the region and even beyond.”
“I’m extremely grateful that we’ve been able to find a new and appropriate new home for these amazing venues and people.”
So what are your thoughts to these iconic Manchester venues staying alive? Do you have any fond memories of attending concerts at either Gorilla or The Deaf Institue? Let us know by commenting on our social media accounts.
He discovered the gem when he was 12 years old and still has it now, claiming it to be why he fell in love with music. He likes to play disc golf when he's not writing about music. He is a one-of-a-kind individual who is always the first to bust out his air guitar on the dance-floor.
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