A new 4500 capacity entertainment venue and conference complex is scheduled to open in Dundee city centre next month.
Arising from the extensive refurbishment of a former Mecca bingo hall on the city’s Nethergate, LiveHouse is being touted as a revitalisation of the area by its owner, Michael Carolan, who led the development of the nearby Malmaison Hotel.
The prominent Nethergate site has a long history as an established place for entertainment, having been originally developed in 1936 as Green’s Playhouse, which was renowned for its hefty capacity for that era – over 4000 seated – and its Art Deco entrance tower, designed by Joseph Emberton.
That eyecatching tower survives to this day, and will signpost the first stage of the site’s new incarnation as a state-of-the-art music venue and events space, with further works expected in 2025 to expand into a ‘multi-purpose campus’.
Having made a success of bringing the high value Malmaison brand to the city, Carolan said he was keen to ‘keep the transformational momentum going’ and build on the good work that has already been done to boost Dundee’s fortunes.
“It has been demonstrated elsewhere, in Glasgow for example, that a multi-use events space can transform the surrounding area,” he said.
“LiveHouse can bring back increased numbers of people to the city centre, ensuring it is beneficial not only for the venue, but surrounding businesses.
“These are exciting times, and we look forward to opening our doors for the first time in December.”
The internal and external overhaul, as well as expansion plans, are being led by Nicoll Russell Studios.
Professor Ric Russell said: “This is a really exciting and ambitious project which will significantly help re-energise the heart of the city.
“This latest reincarnation of the building will unfold in several development phases, increasing its capacity to host a diverse range of events, from vibrant musical performances to conferences, exhibitions and more.
“We look forward to adding our considerable experience of designing within the fields of theatre and licenced leisure to assist in bringing this vision to life.”
Venue operator Angus Robb said: “I have been promoting shows in Dundee for over thirty years and see a gap in the market for a venue of this size.
“The space is very flexible and can be adapted on an event-by-event basis, it has the potential to attract large exhibitions and conferences as well as international touring bands, theatre productions, awards dinners and sporting events.
“The venue will also be used for Esports with talks already in place with an international games developer.”
The development of LiveHouse has been warmly welcomed by both politicians and entertainers.
Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Finance, Michael Marra MSP, said: “A new venue that can bring added life back to the night-time economy of the city would be a huge asset for Dundee.
“Our city centre needs the vibrancy this venture offers, and our people deserve to see the best entertainment on their doorstep in the city we all love. Nothing matches live music with friends.
“The more acts that add Dundee to their touring plan the better and this begins to expand the opportunity for Dundee audiences and those from the surrounding area to choose to spend their time and money in our brilliant city.”
Dundee City Council leader Cllr Mark Flynn said: “This is an exciting announcement for Dundee and has the potential to be a significant investment for the future of our city centre.
“I look forward to seeing how this prominent site develops.
“The council is working alongside a range of partners to secure improvements for our city centre to make it a vibrant location for locals and visitors alike.”
Ged Grimes, of Scottish rock band Simple Minds, said: “The opening of LiveHouse is such welcome news.
“A new and exciting venue of this capacity, right in the centre of Dundee, will undoubtedly attract major touring artists and bands to the city.”
Dundee DJ Hannah Laing commented: “When I found out about the new space LiveHouse opening in Dundee, I was so excited and intrigued.
“Dundee really needs a fresh space to boost the music scene here. It sounds like it’s going to be incredible and I can’t wait to check it out.”
