THE new manager of an iconic music venue has vowed the nightclub is here to stay. The former Tower nightclub, which reopens tonight as Funktion, has been the victim of many failed investment schemes in recent years.
Hull-born Emmerdale star Gemma Oaten will officially open the club, in Anlaby Road, tonight.
Adam Smith, general manager at the club, said: "I have a passion for Hull and it will be a proud moment when the doors open tonight.
"We are here to stay. We have leased the building from the owners and are trying to come up with something that will appeal to everyone.
"We will push it and keep going, offering something new and fresh.
"Basically, we have listened to what people want. Drinks prices will be cheaper and the entry fee will be cheaper."
The venue was once a luxury cinema, with a live orchestra playing soundtracks to silent movies.
Five decades later and the grade two listed venue became a mecca for modern music, with the likes of New Order and The Housemartins taking to the stage.
Tokyo took over the venue in August 2012, and there was a £1.2m investment.
It reopened with a performance by global dance star Example.
However, despite bringing the likes of rapper and singer-songwriter Professor Green to the city centre venue, it struggled.
Mr Smith, who worked at Tokyo, is confident Funktion can once again be a successful venue.
He said: "I've basically had no life for four months refurbishing the venue and adding a bit of colour.
"We want to bring the big acts, live acts and get local businesses involved, as well as doing work for charity.
"We want to bring something different to Hull and try to offer something to suit everybody, from student nights, to rock nights.
"Probably in the past it has been too expensive, so that is something we hope to change.
"I've been trying to get the club for a while. It is a beautiful club with the best main room in Hull."
Miss Oaten is due to cut the ribbon at 10.30pm.
"There will be fire eaters and angle- grinders on the night," Mr Smith said.
"Gemma was meant to be on holiday, but she has rearranged it to be here to open up the club.
"Tomorrow we have Chipmunk performing at the venue."
Chipmunk, who has had several top ten hits, including the number one hit Oopsy Daisy, posted on his Facebook page: "Hull let's go."
The venue will be opened at 10.30pm tonight and entry costs £6, or £4 if you are on the guest list.
The Chipmunk event takes place tomorrow and starts at 10.30pm. Tickets cost £9, or £11 on the door.
• Visit facebook.com/funktionhull for more information.
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