Icehouse Rises from the Ashes: A Revitalized Music Haven Poised for a Comeback

Just three months after facing an eviction threat, the iconic Icehouse supper club in Minneapolis has undergone a remarkable transformation. A new ownership deal has saved the beloved music venue from closure, and a team of seasoned professionals is now poised to revitalize the space and restore its status as one of the Twin Cities' premier live music destinations.

Orchestrating a Harmonious Comeback: Icehouse's Triumphant Resurgence

A Lifeline for a Cherished Venue

The Icehouse supper club has long been a beloved fixture in the Minneapolis music scene, known for its intimate atmosphere and diverse lineup of talented performers. However, the venue faced a significant challenge earlier this year when it received an eviction notice, leaving its future in jeopardy. But in a remarkable turn of events, a new ownership deal has emerged, offering a lifeline to the struggling venue and paving the way for a revitalized future.

Experienced Hands at the Helm

At the heart of this transformation is a team of seasoned professionals who are committed to ensuring Icehouse's continued success. Brian Liebeck, the venue's founder, will remain as the general manager, bringing his deep understanding of the space and its operations. Joining him is JT Bates, a well-known musician who has performed extensively at Icehouse and will now take on the role of managing the music programming.

A Passion-Driven Takeover

The new majority owners, John and Amy Higgins, are no strangers to the challenges of running a successful music venue. The couple, who were already silent investors in Icehouse, have a proven track record of revitalizing and managing similar establishments, including the Portage bar in Cable, Wisconsin. Their passion for the venue and the local music scene is evident, and they are determined to see Icehouse thrive once again.

Addressing the Debt and Securing the Future

The new ownership deal comes at a critical time, as Icehouse was facing a significant debt burden. According to the eviction lawsuit filed by the landlords, Northpond Partners, the venue owed 8,000in rent dating back to July 2023. However, the Higginses have stepped in to negotiate a solution, demonstrating their commitment to ensuring Icehouse's long-term sustainability.

Revitalizing the Venue's Offerings

With the new ownership in place, Icehouse is poised to undergo a revitalization that will breathe new life into the venue. The Higginses have outlined several exciting plans, including hosting more live music in the smaller, "more piano bar-like" side of the venue, as well as expanding the outdoor concert offerings on the venue's large patio. Additionally, they intend to implement a strategic approach to curating a more diverse lineup of performers, ensuring that Icehouse continues to be a hub for a wide range of musical genres and styles.

Preserving the Heart and Soul of Icehouse

Despite the changes, the new owners are committed to preserving the essence of Icehouse. Liebeck, the venue's founder, will remain an integral part of the team, ensuring that the "heart and soul of the club" is maintained. This continuity of leadership and vision is crucial in maintaining the venue's unique character and appeal to both longtime patrons and new audiences alike.

Celebrating a Triumphant Comeback

The revitalization of Icehouse will be marked by a celebratory concert on August 3rd, dubbed the "Rise-Up Reggae Festival." This event will feature local mainstays such as the International Reggae All-Stars, Socaholix, and Innocent, setting the stage for a renewed era of live music and community engagement at the venue.In the weeks leading up to the festival, Icehouse will also host a diverse lineup of events, including a release party for the rock band Dilly Dally Alley, a showcase with the Twin Cities Flamenco Collective, a jazz residency series with the Minneapolis String Project, and the return of Derecho Sound System with Low's Alan Sparhawk. These events underscore the venue's commitment to showcasing a wide range of musical talent and catering to the diverse tastes of its audience.As Icehouse embarks on this new chapter, the excitement and optimism surrounding its future are palpable. With a dedicated team of professionals, a renewed focus on programming, and a deep-rooted passion for the local music scene, Icehouse is poised to reclaim its rightful place as one of the Twin Cities' most beloved and vibrant live music venues.