It may have a new owner, but it’s still the same Barrymore’s.
The music hall and bar reopened two weeks ago after former owner Randy Lanctot sold the business to Vince Simeone, a Montreal-based entrepreneur with clubs in Toronto and Montreal.
The popular retro ’80s and ’90s theme nights are still up and running and the venue will continue to showcase live music.
The property has had an eclectic past since it opened in the early 1900s, housing a ritzy movie theatre, a strip club and a discotheque. Property manager Louis Antonakos says he wants to give the place a fresher feel.
“We want to be true to the history and character of the building, but update and restore it,” he says.
Barrymore’s has been a coveted spot for seasoned and up-and-coming performers alike. Local rock band Wise Young & King was slated to play the venue in August, until it closed down.
“I’ve always wanted to play there,” says lead singer Alan Charlton. “It’s the place to go in Ottawa for music.”
Barrymore’s became a rock showcase in the late ’70s, boasting acts such as Bryan Adams, U2, James Brown and Kris Kristofferson.
“If you change Barrymore’s it would be such a shame,” says Charlton. “It’s a cool place in the way it’s laid out.”
Nathan Snook, lead singer and guitarist of Ottawa-based band Grace Over Diamonds, played the venue over a decade ago. “It’s an amazing feeling when you walk in there,” he says. The band is playing a show at Barrymore’s celebrating their album release on Oct. 17. “Barrymore’s is my spot,” says Snook. “I love it.”
Antonakos says there has been a lack of shows in the past but ownership and staff plan to increase the number of live music acts.
Meanwhile, the ’90s night on Thursdays and ’80s nights on Sundays are still going strong. “We had a great turnout this weekend, and we hope that continues,” Antonakos said.
Natasha Bouchat Laird, 22, frequents the bar on its retro nights.
“I really enjoy the music on ’80s nights,” she says. “I’m an ’80s baby so maybe that’s why. I always have fun there, it has a good atmosphere.”
Antonakos says there may be room to add a third bar night, adding that “everything is moving forward.”
He says the hall will be getting a facelift over time, including an overhaul of the façade, but renovations will take months to complete.
“I definitely think the place could use some work,” says Bouchat Laird. “It got a bit run down in the end – I noticed there were some holes in the walls.”
Some minor renovations have already taken place. The bar will remain open while they continue.
“This is still the same Barrymore’s,” Antonakos says. “ I don’t think there is any plan to change the format.” Of its unique chandeliers, huge mirrors and gold-painted mouldings, he adds, “It would be a crime to ruin that ceiling.”