The Gig Cartel - Venues: Leamington Spa The Assembly Rooms

History

Opened in 1926 and originally called the "Bath Assembly Hall", the building is typical of the 1920s Art Deco style.  It was funded by Birmingham entrepeneur Elsie Dowding and designed by Birmingham architect Horace Bradley. It became renamed the "Palais de Danse" in keeping with many similar purpose built venues around the country. In the 1920s the waltz, foxtrot and quickstep were all popular and each 'Palais' had its own particular group dance called the 'Palais Glide'. Music at Leamington's Palais was provided by the Jack Southern Band and a local dancer - Robert Creelman - was the master of ceremonies.

The Palais also held competitions, demonstrations, theme nights and old time dances - catering for a varied audience. Dancing continued throughout the 1930s and 1940s and there were special reduced rates for members of the armed forces - including American servicemen.

  In 1952 it was renamed the Embassy Ballroom and continued to hold dances and corporate events - including Christmas Balls for local regiments and barracks.

After a period of closure it was taken over by Gala Bingo, but closed down some years later following the introduction of new EU regulations.

The vision to reopen the building came in 2006 and after a short period of renovation and design by Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen to recreate its Art Deco origins with a contemporary look and practicality of purpose - it is once more operating as it was originally intended.

The Assembly Now

The Assembly opened its doors on the 30th of August 2008 as a brand new music venue in Leamington Spa, and with a capacity of 1000 standing 500 seated.

The Assembly is fully equipped with top Spec. PA and Lighting System and is set up to accommodate large-scale film crews.

There are 2 Main bars within the venue, serving among others Worthington's, Guinness, Grolsh and Magners on Draft, plus a wide range of spirits and soft drinks.

We also have balcony bar and overflow bar in the main hall.

The balcony is 100 standing capacity and is a great way to view the main stage.

The assembly boasts a large backstage area complete with 3 changing rooms, artist bar, Tammy Wynette's pink gypsy caravan, shower facilities, Gatling gun  and pool tables. Rear loading area with service elevator to take the artists equipment to the side of the stage.