The latter half 0f 2016 saw a changing of the guard in Brisbane’s live music scene, when long-time owner of The Zoo Joc Curran sold the venue to entrepreneurial upstart Pixie Weyand. With this passing of the torch came a wave of new energy and ideas, which are now starting to show results. While operating the venue as normal in the final months of last year, Pixie gathered information and inspiration for upgrading the look and feel of The Zoo, while committing to maintaining the fun, heart and vibrancy that has made it a vital pillar of Fortitude Valley’s nightlife. The venue was closed over the festive season for some much-needed upgrades, which will be revealed to the public when The Zoo reopens this weekend.
For those itching to know what the changes hold for the venue, we can reveal that several alterations have been made to The Zoo’s interior. The building’s natural brick walls have been exposed, the bar has been deconstructed and remade with beer and cocktail taps, more space has been created at the venue’s rear for seating, and the sound desk has also been downsized and streamlined to provide more viewing opportunities for those at the back. Pixie is also in the process of securing more power to the venue for the purposes of adding air-conditioning, which will come as a delight to many. The changes to the venue don’t just benefit punters – several new additions will also directly benefit the bands booked to play. New backline has been added alongside a new PA system, while the green room has been kitted out with Nintendo consoles and games. In addition to the physical changes, Pixie has some new offerings in the pipeline. The Zoo has linked up with Foodora to allow punters to order from nearby food joints (with orders being delivered directly to the venue) and The Zoo will be opening at 5:00 pm as a post-work tipple temple.
If you consider yourself a regular of The Zoo or a supporter of Brisbane’s live music scene, make sure you are among the first to see the new changes at the venue’s reopening gig on Saturday February 4.
