Brixton Academy Set to Reopen with Tribute Gigs Following Tragic Incident
After a tragic crowd crush in December 2022 left two concertgoers dead and another critically injured, London’s renowned Brixton Academy is finally preparing to reopen its doors. The venue, which has been closed since the fatal incident, has announced its re-opening details, along with a lineup of tribute gigs set to mark its return to the music scene.
The fatal crush occurred during a concert by Nigerian Afrobeats artist Asake, claiming the lives of 23-year-old Gabrielle Hutchinson and 33-year-old Rebecca Ikumelo. Another individual was left in critical condition. The incident shook the music community and left the future of the iconic venue uncertain.
However, after months of deliberation, it was announced in December that Brixton Academy would be allowed to retain its license under the condition that it implements comprehensive safety measures. The venue has since worked diligently to meet these requirements, ensuring the safety of future concert attendees.
Now, with the approval to reopen, Brixton Academy has unveiled a lineup of tribute gigs to commemorate its return. The reopening festivities will kick off next month, featuring performances by Nirvana UK, The Smyths, Definitely Mightbe, and UK Foo Fighters. Fans can expect a nostalgic journey through the sounds of iconic bands like Nirvana, The Smiths, Oasis, and Foo Fighters.
Tickets for these highly anticipated gigs will go on sale this Friday, March 8, at 9 am GMT, with a pre-sale option available on Wednesday, March 6, at 10 am GMT. Additionally, other notable acts such as Editors and The Black Keys have also secured dates at the historic venue in May.
The announcement of Brixton Academy’s reopening has been met with a mix of emotions from the public. While many are eager to once again experience live music in this legendary space, the tragic events of December 2022 serve as a somber reminder of the importance of prioritizing safety at live events.
In response to the incident, Brixton Academy’s management, Academy Music Group (AMG), has implemented a series of new safety measures. These include reinforced doors, improved queuing systems, and enhanced ticketing protocols, aimed at preventing similar tragedies in the future.
The reopening of Brixton Academy not only signifies a return to live music but also a reaffirmation of the resilience of the music community. As fans eagerly anticipate the upcoming tribute gigs and future performances, there is hope that Brixton Academy will continue to serve as a beacon for live music enthusiasts for years to come.
Author: DA
Sources: Evening Standard/NME
