September 1, 2010 13:38

Cardiff Barfly closes its doors for good

Falling attendances to blame for the closure

The Cardiff Barfly venue has closed as of yesterday (August 31).

A sign outside the 200-capacity venue explains that it is closed until further notice, while Barfly Managing Director Be Rozzo confirmed that it is closed for the foreseeable future.

According to sources close to the venue, falling attendances were to blame for the closure.

Rozzo told NME that people with tickets to shows that had been scheduled for the venue should await details of possible relocations. If gigs can't be relocated, refunds will be issued.

He said: "After 10 years in the Welsh capital, Barfly has closed its doors for the last time. Over the decade, we've had the opportunity to present an array of extraordinary up-and-coming artists – some of whom have gone on to become festival headliners and household names.

"Cardiff has a rich musical heritage and many genuine music lovers, for this reason we hope at some point to return to the city in a location that better reflects the needs of the current generation of the artists and audiences.

"In the meantime, we would like to wholeheartedly thank the staff that helped to take us this far and all those we've encountered along the way – promoters, agents, tour managers and more – who helped to make sure bands made it there on time, sounded great and ensured the shows were the best they could be. Most of all, we'd like to thank everyone that attended our events over the years.

"Regarding current shows, we will endeavour to place all forthcoming gigs at alternative locations. Where this is not possible, tickets will be refunded."

The venue opened in its current location, opposite Cardiff Castle in the city centre, in 2001. Bands who have played there include The Libertines, Interpol, Yeah Yeah Yeahs, The Killers, Franz Ferdinand and Super Furry Animals.

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