Academy Music Group Ltd (AMG) will open its newest Academy in Leeds in October 2008. The company is investing £3,000,000 into the development of its latest venue.
AMG acquired the site of the former Town and Country Club in November 2007 and in more recent years, it has been Creation nightclub (2001-2004). AMG plans to restore the Grade I listed building to its former glory as one of the City's most historic music venues.
Originally the Coliseum building on Cookridge Street, the venue was opened in 1885 by the Prince and Princess of Wales. Designed by William Blackwell, in Gothic style, it featured an ornate stone frontage and a hall described as 'one of the finest in the North of England' (Kelly's Directory - 1914).
In its early years, it was used for circus and Variety shows of the day, through to political meetings and religious gatherings. Changing hands between various theatre and property developers, the Coliseum converted to a cinema in 1938 and was renamed the Gaumont. It closed in March 1961 and re-opened as a Bingo Hall and Social club, through to use as a television studio in the 1980s until 1991.
From 1992 to 2000, the legendary Town and Country Club, playing host to many high profile acts including Blur, INXS, Mark Knopfler and The Stones Roses.
Further development and investment details will be announced in due course.
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