Fundraiser to support closed music venue staff

A grassroots music venue in Hull will host a fundraiser later to show solidarity and support after the “heartbreaking” closure of a similar venue in Sheffield.

The Dorothy Pax, based in Victoria Quays, announced its sudden closure in March citing the impact of Covid-19, rising bills and customers struggling with the cost-of-living crisis.

The New Adephi Club, based in De Grey Street, Hull, will hold a concert starting at 20:00 GMT with all proceeds going to the staff who lost their jobs in South Yorkshire.

Manager Paul Sarel said: “It could easily have been us [that went out of business] and we’ve been heartbroken for them.”

He added: “It’s hard for everyone – the bands, local community, sound engineers, bar staff. It is such a shame and it’s so hard to stay afloat.

“The gig will be a celebration of the Dorothy Pax. It’ll be tinged with a bit of sadness but we’re hoping it’ll be really good fun and a celebration of a wonderful venue.”

James Tranmer from the band Black Kes, who were due to play at the Dorothy Pax before its closure, said they had been left “heartbroken” by the situation.

“It’s a space that has given so much to the music scene and community. These closures cannot continue.”

Richard Henderson, the managing director of the Dorothy Pax, was tearful as he told the BBC how he had “exhausted every option” to keep his venue open.

“The sad part is that we could fill the room, we could get everyone vibing but it’s not enough. It’s nobody’s fault but, with the cost of living, it’s just the perfect storm.”

He also thanked Black Kes and The New Adelphi Club for holding the fundraiser for his staff who he said had been offered jobs at other venues across Yorkshire.

“It just shows how collaborative we are as an industry. We’re so grateful for the support. It’s amazing and it’s utterly overwhelming.”

The Music Venue Trust, which supports the industry, has previously called for a £1 levy on stadium and arena concert tickets to support smaller venues.

Mr Henderson praised Coldplay for their plan to donate 10% of the proceeds from their 2025 UK concerts to grassroots venues but said the industry, as a whole, could do more.

He said: “The ticket prices we’re seeing for big artists is extortionate and it feels like the access to art depends on the thickness of your wallet.

“Closures like ours are preventable. We need actions not words. The industry delivers thousands of live music experiences every week and it would be a crying shame if more venues are lost.”