There are a few jazz musicians and fans who will be singing the blues as January 2020 gets underway, as Commercial Drive's Libra Room will be closing down around the new year.
A patron tipped V.I.A. off to the pending closure a few weeks ago via e-mail, and a couple of event listings indicate the end is near.
"The LIBRA room is closing on Dec 31st. OH NO! So GO while you can!" notes performer Melanie Dekker on her Dec. 18 event listing on the site bandsintown.
A Facebook event for a Libra Room Ender Bender, set for Dec. 29, indicates the venue is "closing soon."
The Libra Room has been in their space for over 10 years. The venue closed down for a lengthy renovation a couple of years back, re-opening in 2017.
The building, called the Odlin Block, was built in 1910-11, and contains both 1608 and 1610. "1608 Commercial Drive has contained numerous businesses, including China Pheasant Cafe from 1958-1970, and Old Europa from 1976-2000s," notes the Vancouver Heritage Foundation.
According to one frequent Libra Room performer, the venue's new proprietors may be turning the space into a Greek restaurant, however that information remains an unconfirmed rumour.
The Libra Room is "the only spot in Vancouver to catch live music seven-nights a week," touts their website. They also proudly feature local artists' work on their walls, and make the artwork available for purchase. On the menu are appetizers and approachable eats like burgers and pasta dishes.
We've reached out to The Libra Room to further confirm the closure and any to get any additional details about their final days and reasons for shuttering. We'll update if any information becomes available.
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