On the site of the old Mayfair Ballroom* stands a nondescript entertainment complex. The Gate houses a
multiplex cinema, countless eateries and a dimly lit 'Spoons. Today, standing
outside the glass fronted building was one of Newcastle's better buskers (see
photo). The tunes were familiar - a seasonal Jingle Bells segueing into Careless Whisper - but it was the alto saxophonist's
improvisational skills which, not for the first time, caught the ear.
* The Mayfair Ballroom hosted its share of dance bands during the sixties
and seventies including the renowned Don Smith band. A small plaque mounted
high on an exterior wall commemorates the date Led Zeppelin performed in
concert. Now, some half a century later, the Mayfair and that of another,
nearby, legendary venue, are about to experience something of a revival of
interest. Adjacent to the Gate on Newgate Street are two recently opened
bar/restaurant ventures, one called 'The Mayfair', the other 'La Dolce
Vita'.
Russell
1 comment :
Oh happy memories a regular visitor to both venues in the day . Really miss the Mayfair when I think of the nights I spent there and the bands I saw . I loved the Pop up at the Dolci then down to the station to the first Wimpy Bar and the all night bus home. Downstairs was cabaret recall that the New Faces acts played there as they won a contract to tour the Bailey clubs of which Dolci was one . Remember Showaddywaddy being there, the stage was so small and there was 9 of them plus their gear a real challenge .
I also recall the Newcastle players being regular visitors and unlike now they were expected to pay . Recall Supermac just strolling in and the lady collecting the money asking him to pay to which he replied with the standard " Don't you know who I am ?" The retort was priceless " I don't care if you're Houdini you still have to pay" . Angry I can remember him fishing a load of money out of his pocket and throwing it on the counter and then off into the club .
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