“Popular West End Venue That Hosted Michael McIntyre Announces Closure: ‘We Gave It Our Best Shot'”

A renowned performing arts venue that has welcomed notable figures such as Michael McIntyre and Phoebe Waller-Bridge will be closing its doors due to escalating costs and broader economic difficulties. Underbelly, the entertainment company behind the Boulevard Soho, has announced that the site will cease operations in January, citing financial pressures that they find insurmountable.

Overview of Underbelly Boulevard Soho

Located at 6 Walker’s Court in the heart of London’s West End, Underbelly Boulevard Soho is a 200-seat live entertainment venue that also features a bar and restaurant. Since its grand opening in 2023, the venue has become a vibrant hub for theatre, comedy, and cabaret, showcasing a diverse array of performances. Among the many high-profile acts that have graced its stage are British comedians John Bishop and James Acaster, US television host David Letterman, and musician Self Esteem. Over the past three years, the venue has hosted more than 1,700 performances, encompassing a wide range of events including circus acts, music, and theatrical productions.

Challenges Leading to Closure

Ed Bartlam and Charlie Wood, the directors of Underbelly, expressed their deep sadness over the closure, noting that the decision was not made lightly. They highlighted the pride they feel in what their dedicated team has accomplished during the venue’s brief existence. “We gave it our best shot, with a wonderful and varied programme, two delicious and collaborative restaurant operators in Kitty Fisher’s and Artusi, and of course a stunning and intimate venue in the heart of Soho,” they stated. However, they acknowledged that the financial realities associated with running the venue, alongside the wider economic challenges faced by the sector, had become overwhelming.

Industry Context and Future Plans

The hospitality sector continues to grapple with significant financial strain, driven by high operating costs, increases in business rates, and rising employment taxes. Many leaders in the industry are advocating for a reduction in VAT to alleviate some of these pressures. Despite the unfortunate closure, Underbelly’s directors remain optimistic, stating that this decision will enable them to concentrate on other exciting theatrical and venue projects currently in development, as well as their ongoing productions, festivals, and events.

Acknowledgements and Upcoming Performances

Mr Bartlam and Mr Wood took the opportunity to extend their gratitude to the team, collaborators, partners, and audiences who contributed to the success of the venue, which was the first permanent establishment for Underbelly. They also expressed their appreciation to Soho Estates for granting them the chance to operate in such a magnificent location, wishing them success in finding a new custodian for the theatre.

Underbelly Boulevard Soho will host its final performance on January 10, after which it will close for good. In the lead-up to its closure, the venue is set to feature a variety of performances, including an off-Broadway musical parody of the hockey romance series, Heated Rivalry.

Underbelly’s Legacy and Other Ventures

Founded in 2000, Underbelly has established itself as a prominent UK-based live entertainment company. It is known for producing and programming a wide range of theatre productions, live events, festivals, and cultural experiences both nationally and internationally. In addition to the Boulevard Soho, Underbelly operates several other sites, including the Underbelly Festival pop-up in Cavendish Square, London, and various venues at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.