Iconic gig venue Gorilla forced to cancel events for…

Iconic gig venue Gorilla forced to cancel events for six weeks due to 'essential work' from today

Iconic Manchester gig venue Gorilla is cancelling its live events for the next six weeks due to ‘essential work’ from today (July 18).

The venue, inside a railway arch on Whitworth Street in the city centre, has had to cancel seven live shows in total. Fans who have already bought tickets for the show will be contacted — but their passes are valid for the new venue.

Gorilla has apologised for the disruption, via a statement released on their website. The bar’s restaurant will remain open, so customers can enjoy a drink and a bite to eat throughout the summer.

The statement online said: “We have recently been informed by Network Rail, the landlord for our building, that essential work needs to be carried out for six weeks from July 18 in our music hall. This means we are unable to proceed with any events during this time.

“We have spent a lot of time trying to reschedule shows, working with bands & promoters to reduce the amount of disruption to peoples calendars. Live music & parties are what make Gorilla. We are really disappointed to close even for a short amount time, but in order to maintain the building and ensure Gorilla can keep hosting and bringing incredible events in the future then this work is unavoidable.

Gorilla's bar and restaurant will remain open over the summer (manchester evening news)

“To all the fans, bands and party goers who have had plans disrupted by this – we really are sorry. If you have bought a ticket for an event during this closing period then you will be contacted by your ticket agent with updated plans for your event. Your ticket will be valid for the new venue.”

Some of the bands affected include alt-pop darlings Tune-yards, and Sengalese afro-fusion outfit Orchestra Boabab. Gorilla has provided a full list of the shows affected, and where they have been moved to.