An iconic live music hotspot in downtown London is closing its doors indefinitely.
The owner of Call The Office has announced this weekend's shows will be the last at the popular bar. In a Facebook post, Darren Quinn outlines the struggles of trying to manage the venue during the COVID-19 pandemic.
"We have been beaten down by this financial landscape and there have been many obstacles even pre-covid as this business has never been easy," Quinn wrote. "It has got much harder, profit margins are slim at best, the workload increased and it's just been so many curveballs to keep searching for the reasons to pursue the passion... I did a lot of renovations over covid time upgrading the club with hopes to kick ass in 2021 but the well has run itself dry."
Quinn goes on to state that the last two shows at the venue located at 216 York St. will be performed this weekend. He hopes to reopen the tavern in the spring or summer of next year.
"But truth be told really not sure what will happen," a very honest Quinn stated. "Government is not really helping, insurance companies not renewing policies and the cost of doing business out of reach... it's anyone's guess at this point and I really do not have a clear notion of what will eventually happen."
Call the Office has been a staple in the downtown for decades, playing host to a number of big acts including the Barenaked Ladies, Radiohead, and Nelly Furtado. The building it calls home dates back to 1881.
Quinn bought the venue after it went on the market in 2018. He extended his thanks to music fans and staff who have supported the bar over the years.
"We have unfinished business here but only time will tell if we will get the chance to continue, and if not us we hope someone will carry the torch," Quinn said in the Facebook post, which has been shared nearly 1,000 times since Monday night.
