Future Secured For Iconic Dancehall With 100 Year History

One of Nottingham’s best loved venues with a history stretching back almost 100 years is set to open its doors once again this September.

The 2,500-capacity venue, most recently known as Pryzm, will be returning to its original incarnation of “The Palais” ahead of celebrating its 100^th year in 2025. 

Plans are already underway by new owners DHP Family for a rejuvenation of the iconic space on Lower Parliament Street, with a new stage, PA, and other works to restore the venue to its historically high standard. 

The Palais is set to re-open its doors from mid-September, providing a diverse array of events for Nottingham and bringing dancing back to its well-trodden dancefloor. 

The Palais de Danse first opened 24 April 1925 as a dance hall and billiard saloon. The dance hall was considered to be one of the finest of its kind outside London and its exterior architectural features were distinctive, particularly the large ornate globe. It hosted dancing in the evening and daily afternoon tea dances, as well as private hire every Tuesday and Friday. 

During the late 1980s, it reinvented itself as a nightclub, most well-known for hosting the popular TV show Hitman and Her, and has been known by several names including the Ritzy and Oceana. 

Now the venue prepares for its next chapter, set to once again become an important cultural asset for Nottingham as an event space for private hire, with the diary open for bookings now. 

The Palais manager Sam Dye said: “As a local business deeply rooted in Nottingham’s music scene, we feel it’s only right to recognise the heritage of the venue and revive Nottingham’s original dancehall. So many generations of families have danced at this iconic venue, so we’re delighted to be bringing it back into use once again.”

To find out more private hire, go to www.thepalais.co.uk