JCT27 - Barnstaple's new live music venue will be opening its doors in Barnstaple town centre this coming spring.
The rumours are true, it's finally happening, a dedicated grassroots music venue will soon be throwing its doors open in the centre of Barnstaple. JCT27 (Junction 27), a 235 capacity standing venue that will host a diverse program of live music enriching music, arts and culture in Barnstaple and further afield. Located in the centre of Barnstaple at 39-40 Boutport Street breathing a new lease of life into the previously unoccupied Post Office building.
Anticipate an eclectic program spanning a wealth of genres from rock and indie, to rap, reggae, hip-hop, grime, crossing over to house, dance, d&b as well as folk, jazz, spoken word, comedy and poetry. Expect not only a dedicated music venue, but one that prioritises sound, looks awesome, feels welcoming and inclusive serving a great selection quality drinks.
JCT27 is the latest project from Liam Farlie, local businessman and director of Alehouse and eatery Latitude 48, located on Barnstaple High Street. Liam explains the concept behind naming the venue JCT27
'Our journey towards creating this venue has been very much like a long journey back to Barnstaple from afar. Pulling off at Junction 27 represents the near completion of a long drive, not only towards Barnstaple, but also towards our goal of Barnstaple's only live music venue.
North Devonian's may not be aware or would probably care to admit, but if they have driven outside the immediate sphere, they will have a special place in their heart for Junction 27 – they may not even know that special place is there. But when we twin that familiar Junction with the newest and most exiting venue in North Devon, they will come to realise the satisfaction from a long journey to an amazing destination.'
Working with Liam is freelancer Clare Chapple, local senior events manager and programmer, Clare has worked for well over a decade in creative live music events, festivals and booking artists and has tons of experience from founding the now closed venue The Factory.
'Dedicated grass roots music venues are real cultural assets, a venue such as JCT27 will not only support the local economy, but support musicians and artists from the ground up, these venues are where tomorrows stars cut their teeth. I'm really excited to be working with Liam to build a venue that I hope we will all come to love and be a cultural landmark in North Devon in years to come.' says Clare
After an extensive refit the 235 capacity venue will have a dedicated raised stage area, complete with professional quality in house sound and lighting, artist green room area and accessible toilets and bar. Without giving too much away, the interior design features heavily on bringing the backstage feel into the venue to truly enhance the immersive gig experience for the audience. Using cheque plate aluminium, steel, flight-cases and raw unfinished surfaces to create a unique design.
'Having worked in events for many years we have a special connection and respect for "backstage" including the artists, but also the crew and equipment it takes to entertain a crowd. We wanted to pay homage to these, often, unsung heroes and try to raise a little awareness of what goes into a show.' says Liam
With a whole host of events in the pipeline featuring touring national and international artists along with plenty of opportunity for up and coming artists and producers to showcase their work. With community and culture at its heart the team would love to hear who you would like to see step on stage at JCT27.
To follow the latest news from JCT27 by following along on socials - you know what to do. Or to contact the team email - backstage@jct27.co.uk
