London, September 18, 2025. Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club
today announces the February 2026 opening of Upstairs at Ronnie’s,
a newly reimagined 140-capacity music venue on the first floor of the
world-famous Soho institution.
The upstairs space, which for many years hosted a vibrant live programme before closing for refurbishment in 2024, has undergone a complete transformation as part of a major revamp of the entire building. Now rebuilt as a purpose-designed, intimate auditorium, it pays homage to the club’s six-decade legacy while looking firmly to the future, and incorporates a striking new interior, enhanced acoustics, high-spec Yamaha and D&B Audio sound and lighting systems, an upgraded stage, a Yamaha S3X Grand Piano, and a brand-new state-of-the-art kitchen. Newly appointed executive chef Steven Connolly will deliver a culinary offering to match the club’s world-class musical reputation.
The opening programme will feature a Piano Trio Series spotlighting some of the leading lights of UK jazz including Ashley Henry, Reuben James, Charlie Stacey, and DoomCannon; a straight-ahead vocal jazz jam hosted by Natalie Williams, Emma Smith, and Georgia Cécile; acoustic soul and R&B from club favourites Vula Malinga, Vanessa Haynes, and Tony Momrelle, plus innovative singer-songwriter Tawiah and garage and house legend Elizabeth Troy; the first ever Ronnie Scott’s Classical Series co-directed by Lizzie Ball and James Pearson, featuring the Ronnie Scott’s Classical All Stars and a hand-picked line-up of acclaimed classical soloists and ensembles; and the brand-new Ronnie Scott’s Gospel Choir.
For the first time in its history, Ronnie Scott’s will also be opening its backstage spaces to the public. Transformed into The Greene Rooms – named in honour of owner Sally Green – a brand new “club within a club” will serve as a members’ lounge and artist space. The secluded, first-floor setting provides a quintessentially Soho retreat for pre- and post-show gatherings, intimate events, artist meet-and-greets, and exclusive talks and workshops. See images HERE.
This redevelopment marks the most significant transformation of Ronnie Scott’s since its 2005 acquisition and reopening by Sally Greene and Michael Watt. The club’s investment comes at a pivotal moment for the UK live music sector, with The Music Venue Trust reporting that 16% of grassroots venues closed in 2023, while more than 40% operated at a loss in 2024. Against this backdrop, the redevelopments are part of a broader investment in the club’s future, underscoring its commitment to sustaining the UK’s legendary live music scene.
Fred Nash, Managing Director of Ronnie Scott’s:
“With Upstairs
at Ronnie’s, we set ourselves the somewhat audacious goal of creating the
greatest small live music venue in the world. In all seriousness, it’s
about creating a beautiful, intimate space where audiences can experience
extraordinary performances, and where artists feel truly valued. At a time when
so many venues face uncertainty, we’re proud to be investing in live music,
championing grassroots talent, and supporting Soho’s vibrant cultural
community.”
With over 65 years at the heart of the UK jazz scene, Ronnie Scott’s continues to evolve, championing innovation and diversity while honouring its storied past. Upstairs at Ronnie’s represents the next chapter in this legacy, set to become an essential addition to Soho’s cultural landscape and as renowned a space for live music as the now legendary downstairs jazz club.
The transformation of Upstairs at Ronnie’s is led by Archer Humphryes Architects as principal architects, with the Greene Rooms interiors designed by Pirajean Lees.
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