One of Birmingham’s favourite haunts is set to close for the final time later this month.
Number Nine The Gallery in Brindleyplace will finally cease trading following a live unplugged performance by rock band Sad Café on September 21.
Owned by entrepreneur Lee Benson, Number Nine was a favourite among Birmingham’s business community.
It provided a shop window for a vast array of artists covering a variety of disciplines from traditional water colours, rock art and photography to forge work and ceramics.
Since it opened in 1999, it has also been the venue for some of the city’s best musical entertainment with a host of high-profile acts performing in the unique surroundings of the modern gallery.
There had been rumours of the venue’s demise for some time but trading problems and a slump in the art-buying market forced Mr Benson to make the difficult decision to finally close.
He said: “We nearly made 14 years. I am absolutely gutted. The last event will be the live performance by Sad Café and then it’s goodbye.
“Naturally there is a closing down sale with bargains to be had. I am sure everyone will love that. Fixtures and fittings included.''
Mr Benson said he had no regrets about his Brindleyplace venture.
He explained: “It is one of the best things I have ever done. A lot of people have benefited. We’ve had great artists, great parties and great events.''
He will sign off with the first-ever unplugged performance by Sad Café, who had a top 10 hit in the 1970s with Everyday Hurts.
The band will perform two acoustic sets of their favourite songs followed by a Q&A session. Tickets for this night will be strictly limited and available on a “first come, first served” basis via the Sad Café website: www.sadcafe.co.uk
They are priced at £30 plus £1.50 administration. This includes a glass of Champagne on arrival and an exclusive souvenir Goodie Bag.
