A reunion is planned to celebrate a Huddersfield nightclub which hosted some of the world’s biggest reggae stars.
The West Indian Social Club – forever known as ‘Venn Street’ – opened in the 1960s and ran until the 1990s.
Over the years the venue changed its name from the West Indian Social Club to Cleopatra’s and, finally, Silver Sands. The club was originally the Empress Ballroom and was the New Theatre from 1963 to 1967.
The West Indian Social Club opened in 1967 and became Cleopatra’s in the 1970s. In the early 1980s it became the Silver Sands and was finally demolished in 1992 to make way for a car park.
Those who ran the club included Errol Babbs, Desmond Pinnock, Artnel Johnson, Ruben Mctair, Mr Alexis, Mr Wells, Mr Willie, Mr Crew and Tallboy.
Many people have fond memories of Venn Street saying it was a huge part of the local community.
“Coach parties used to come from far and wide for the gigs,” said one. “It was the only club for young black people, and it was the highlight of our week to go there. It was the scene of so many courtships, break-ups and make-ups.
“There will never be another Venn Street and we are lucky and privileged to have experienced it.”
The club’s main night was Saturdays but it also hosted a children’s disco on Sundays.
The reunion is to be held on Saturday November 25 at the HUDAWI Centre in Great Northern Street in Huddersfield and will mark the end of the Windrush 75 programme of activities.
The event begins at 9pm and will feature cherry-picked DJs who used to play at the club along with reggae ikons Sandra Cross, Leroy Mafia and Top Cat.
Amour Promotions and Education 2000 have added more images to the existing Venn Street Exhibition, which will be displayed on the night and will bring the memories flooding back.
It will show people who missed the opportunity how the Windrush Generation and descendants socialised and united together as a community.
Reggae stars who played at the club include John Holt, Gregory Isaacs, Freddie McGregor, Maxi Priest, Dennis Brown, I Jah Man Owen Gray and many more.
The Venn Street Reunion continues to maintain these high standards and performs the same function as the original club, bringing unity, promoting love and producing joy.
Tickets for the event can be purchased online – click here
