The Doghouse Gone for Good?

1st May 2009

Dundee’s music scene is vibrant and eclectic. There is something for everyone, but when it comes to fresh talent, one of the city’s foremost venues for nurturing this talent is under threat of disappearing. Everyone has perhaps heard recently of The Doghouse’s sudden closure by Dundee City Council over unpaid rates, however with the overwhelming support of local bands who treat the venue as a second home there is a glimmer of hope.

Licensee Sara Hill says they should be open again by mid-May though there are still shows slated to take place in early May.

It is unsure whether these scheduled events will be moved to another venue as recently happened with Pete Doherty’s gig or not if Sarah cannot get the keys back from lease-owners Punch before the mid-May re-opening. It is a tell-tale sign of the importance of the former school on Brown Street that rival venues are more than willing to help Sarah out in still providing great music to the city.

Last Saturday was the first of two of The Doghouse’s ‘Fundraisers’, local bands rushed at the chance to support this legendary venue. Sarah said that the evening was “absolutely brilliant” and “outstanding” really showing the “community feel” present in the Dundee music scene- a scene which The Doghouse has had a monumental part in creating. The venue is frequently cited as the backbone to bands such as The View and The Law’s success; which is perhaps why the fundraiser events are made possible: bands play for free and all profits from the night go towards paying back Punch so that The Doghouse can re-open.

The Doghouse is not just a venue which supports live music; it hosts numerous club nights for students and fledgling promoters wanting to create their own music scene as well as occasional fundraising events for student societies and charities. It is a great place to relax with friends and regulars to the bar will need to find a new haunt unless we come together and support this cause! The next fundraiser is on the 2nd of May in Fat Sam’s and with an incredible line-up (including Dundee golden boys The View) everyone’s bound to have a great night! Tickets are available from ticketweb.co.uk or Groucho’s, I’ll see you in the front row.
Written By: Sara Grady

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