Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club has announced details of a new 140 capacity upstairs music venue following a major refurbishment of the entire Frith Street building. For the first time in its history, the club, 66 next month, will also be opening its backstage spaces to the public with a brand-new members’ lounge and artist space. The transformation of Upstairs at Ronnie’s is led by Archer Humphryes Architects as principal architects and interior designers, with The Greene Rooms interiors designed by Pirajean Lees.
Upstairs at Ronnie’s opens in February. Early programme highlights include a Piano Trio Series with acts such as Ashley Henry, Reuben James, Charlie Stacey, and DoomCannon part of the mix; a straight-ahead vocal jazz jam hosted by Natalie Williams, Emma Smith, and Georgia Cécile; acoustic soul and R&B from Vula Malinga, Vanessa Haynes and Tony Momrelle plus the new Ronnie Scott’s Gospel Choir.
The upstairs space closed for refurbishment in 2024 and has undergone a complete transformation as part of a major revamp of the entire Frith Street building.
Ronnie Scott’s will also be opening its backstage spaces to the public with a brand-new members’ lounge and artist space. The work form part of the most significant redevelopment of Ronnie Scott’s since its 2005 acquisition and reopening by Sally Greene and Michael Watt. Programming plans include a classical series.
Upstairs at Ronnie’s will also host its own version of the Ronnie Scott’s Late Late Show, providing more opportunities to showcase emerging grassroots talent at a range of ticket prices to keep shows accessible to all.
The Classical Series is co-directed by Lizzie Ball and James Pearson and features the Ronnie Scott’s Classical All Stars and the brand-new Ronnie Scott’s Gospel Choir.
“With Upstairs at Ronnie’s,” says Fred Nash, managing Director of Ronnie Scott’s, “we set ourselves the somewhat audacious goal of creating the greatest small live music venue in the world. In all seriousness, it’s about creating a beautiful, intimate space where audiences can experience extraordinary performances, and where artists feel truly valued. At a time when so many venues face uncertainty, we’re proud to be investing in live music, championing grassroots talent, and supporting Soho’s vibrant cultural community.”
Fred Nash
The Greene Rooms – named in honour of owner Sally Greene – are also to debut a new “club within a club” and will serve as a members’ lounge and artist space.
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