A historic gig venue nestled in picturesque Holme Valley has struck the right chord with top music aficionados after being shortlisted to be crowned best small venue in the UK.
Music magazine NME made the announcement to Holmfirth’s Picturedrome after it was nominated by music lovers as part of its quest to find the most unforgettable place to see live music in an intimate setting.
It is the first time the historic venue, which was a former cinema and short-time bingo hall, has been in the running for a formal gong, despite being a well-loved haunt of hundreds of British and international musicians since it staged its first gig in1988.
Owner Peter Carr, began leasing the building with Rachel Carr in 1998 before buying it in 2003, when it underwent a major restoration to confirm its place as a premier gig venue, a project that has only recently been completed with the complete overhaul of the backstage area.
He said: “It was quite a surprise.
“A load of people nominated us but we had no idea what chances we had.
“I think it’s been shortlisted due to the way it’s set out, which makes it perfect for live music, so we have to give thanks to the architects behind its transformation.
“It’s the venue’s first award so it’s good to be recognised and we hope it will raise more awareness of it and maybe attract a different audience to the ones we already get.”
Renovations in the venue include work on the stage, floor and bar area, alongside the installation of a self-contained flat which acts as the backstage area for performing bands.
Certainly no curtained off area at the side of the stage, it includes a private balcony, lounge area, table football and even bedrooms.
It is the second time a venue has been shortlisted for the award, following Hebden Bridge’s Trades Club in 2012 and 2013.
Commenting on the success of the venue this year, Peter said: “This year has been great.
“We’ve had great artists in and all seem to have enjoyed it and keep coming back, which is fantastic.
“We spent a lot of money developing the backstage area because we wanted to give bands a good environment to be in and I think it’s now one of the best in the north.
“It’s smart but laid back at the same time.
“I think the artists also enjoy it because on stage the audience are right up to them so they can see everyone, which makes it quite intimate.
“The venue’s a lot different to one in a city- a lot of people come before the gig to try out all the local pubs and it’s just more of a relaxed atmosphere.”
The winners of the contest will be announced by the magazine in November.
