Overview
In absolutely epic news, The Lansdowne is coming back to life. It was a huge blow to the Sydney gig scene when the iconic Chippendale live music venue closed back in 2015 — and with so many venues since following suit (largely linked to the lockout law restrictions), its resurrection could not have come at a better time.
The venue has been bought up and renovated by Jake Smyth and Kenny Graham, owners of Mary's Newtown and The Unicorn Hotel. Fans of the space won't have to wait much longer for the reveal, as they plan to open the doors for the Queen's Birthday long weekend this June. While details on the fit-out and menu have not yet been revealed, we do know that the entire top floor will be dedicated to live music and that they've worked closely with the producers of the new ICC to ensure top-notch acoustics. We're also hoping they'll give it a good scrub while still maintaining its dive-like appeal and cheap schooeys.
The Lansdowne's revival is being supported by the many now-famous Aussie bands that first found their feet at the joint — including You Am I, The Living End, Hard-On's and The Preatures — and it will again act as a 'gateway venue' for the next wave of musicians to make their mark on the Sydney music scene. The highly influential Rule brothers of The Music and Booze Co. (previous owners of The Annandale Hotel) will look after all band bookings, so you know they'll be getting some seriously solid gigs in.
Sydney Lord Mayor Clover Moore is stoked as well. "To see an iconic venue like the Lansdowne returning feels like it could be a real turning point for live music in Sydney...and we're looking forward to working with the new owners wherever we can," she said.
With so much devastating closures over the past few years, this is a huge win for Sydney's culture and nightlife and we could not be more stoked about this news.
Image: Jack Steel.