The Duncan Showroom, a popular music venue in Duncan, British Columbia, is set to shut down at the conclusion of November after serving the community for more than a decade, as per the venue’s staff. Operating at 131 Station Street for 12 years, the Showroom leased space in a century-old building for an all-ages music experience.
The decision to close comes as the building was recently put up for sale, resulting in new owners taking charge with plans that do not involve the Showroom, according to Longevity John Falkner, the Showroom’s artistic director. Falkner, who was attending an indie music conference in Hamilton, Ontario, to secure bookings for the 2027 lineup, received a call informing him that his lease would not be renewed by year-end.
Consequently, the Showroom is scheduled to host its final event on November 30. Falkner expressed surprise at the abrupt notice, stating they had hoped for more time due to their deep community roots, deeming it another obstacle to overcome.
Brandon Isaaks, a blues musician from North Cowichan, lamented the closure as a significant loss for the music community. He highlighted the mounting costs contributing to the struggle faced by live music venues and audiences across the province.
Isaaks pointed out that the Showroom joins a series of music venues on Vancouver Island that have shuttered, underscoring the diminishing options for live music enthusiasts. He emphasized the importance of venues like the Showroom in fostering a vibrant music scene and supporting artist development within the community.
In a bid to sustain the local music scene, Falkner, alongside his business partner Ted Cadillac, is actively scouting for new venue locations to continue their musical journey in Duncan. Falkner, energized by the prospect of a fresh start, expressed optimism about the future and his commitment to preserving the essence of live music in the community.
