A new live music venue, The Tail, is set to open in Catford next year, as Lewisham becomes London Borough of Culture for 2022. With capacity for 300 people, the venue will host concerts, comedy nights and showcase new local artists from across South London.
The Tail will be the latest addition to Catford Mews, Lewisham’s independent cinema and entertainment venue, which is expanding its existing site to accommodate the new venue. Its name pays tribute to the town’s iconic Catford Cat statue, which has adorned the entrance to Catford Shopping Centre since the 1970s and remains a much-loved local landmark.
The announcement follows the launch of Lewisham Council’s new vision for Catford town centre earlier this year, which seeks to enhance Catford’s status as a cultural destination and help grow the night-time economy. The opening of The Tail, perfectly timed to coincide with Lewisham’s year as London Borough of Culture in 2022, will help attract more people to the town centre and create new jobs, helping boost the local economy and support the creative industries.
Preston Benson, founder of the Catford Mews, said:
“With so many exciting artists across South London, a new music venue in Lewisham is great news for the borough. The Tail will be an opportunity for younger and amateur musicians of all shapes and sizes to come in and play.
“We’ve got through the last year of COVID-19 restrictions thanks to the support of Catford’s wonderful community and we’re delighted to be able to complete our vision for Catford Mews.”
Cllr Andre Bourne, Cabinet Member for Culture at Lewisham Council, said:
“With our year as London Borough of Culture just months away, we’re delighted to announce the opening of a new music venue here in Lewisham.
“The Tail will be a fantastic addition to South London’s live music scene, providing opportunities for promising local artists and putting Lewisham on the map as the place to be for new music.”
