Here’s to the venues that we’ve highlighted in the North East, who tirelessly provided entertainment for generations, only to fall wayside either thanks to time or progress.
From weekend’s away in Whitley Bay to those decadent nights in the ‘90s and early ‘00s when DJ’s were considered superstars as the bars churches to throw shapes in - to quote the poet Tim Bisley from Spaced.
We’ve taken a look at 15 of those venues that were loved and lost in the North East, as more and more grassroots venues continue to suffer in the current economic climate. Were you a regular at one of the venues we’ve chosen today?
13. Fiesta Music Hall (Stockton)
Originally a 1930s cinema, the building was transformed into a vibrant venue where visitors could enjoy a meal, drinks, and live performances. It opened as the Fiesta in 1965. Under the management of Teesside brothers Keith and Jim Lipthorpe, the club thrived from 1971, attracting top-tier acts such as Roy Orbison, Dusty Springfield, Tommy Cooper, and the Four Tops. | Sheffield Fiesta
14. The Locarno (Sunderland)
The interior of the Locarno Ballroom as new in 1964. Picture courtesy of local historian Bill Hawkins and Sunderland Antiquarian Society. | Bill Hawkins
15. Bonded Warehouse (Sunderland)
The 19th century warehouse has hosted concerts, comedy events and private parties and weddings over the years, as well as becoming famed for its Sunday lunches. However it fell victim to the lockdown in 2020 when the owners announced "We’re really sorry to say that due to the ongoing situation with Covid-19, we have had to make the extremely difficult decision to permanently close the doors of Bonded Warehouse." | Google Maps