The Fillmore New York at Irving Plaza, located in the East Village, Manhattan, has an intriguing history and numerous hidden facts. The venue originally opened as a ballroom in 1860 and has since transformed through various identities and purposes. It became the Polish Army Veterans Association headquarters in 1948, serving as a community center for Polish immigrants.
In 1978, Tom Goodkind transformed the space into a rock music venue, hosting acts like Talking Heads and B-52s. The venue was briefly known as the Fillmore New York from 2007 to 2010, an attempt to resurrect the famous Fillmore East name.
One lesser-known fact is that the venue has a secret VIP lounge called the "Mezzanine," which offers a more exclusive experience with a private bar and seating area. The venue also features a hidden green room, accessible only through a concealed door backstage, providing a private space for artists to relax before shows.
The building itself is a historical gem, with its architecture reflecting the various eras it has survived. Its Beaux-Arts design is a rare find in the East Village, making it a notable landmark. The venue's proximity to other cultural hotspots like Webster Hall and St. Mark's Place adds to its allure.
Irving Plaza has hosted a wide array of performances, from punk rock bands to hip-hop legends. Notable performances include Nirvana's 1993 show, which is often cited as one of their best live performances. Bob Dylan also performed a secret show here in 1997, adding to the venue's mystique.
The venue's sound system is renowned for its quality, often praised by both artists and attendees. The acoustics are designed to provide an immersive listening experience, making it a favorite among audiophiles. The venue's layout, with its tiered balcony and open floor plan, ensures that every guest has a clear view of the stage.
The Fillmore New York at Irving Plaza has also been a launchpad for many artists' careers. Bands like The Ramones and The Strokes played some of their earliest shows here, helping to cement their status in the music industry. The venue's reputation for breaking new talent continues to this day.
In addition to music, the venue has hosted other events, including comedy shows and private parties. Its versatility makes it a popular choice for various types of gatherings, adding to its storied history. The Fillmore New York at Irving Plaza remains a beloved institution in Manhattan's East Village, offering a unique blend of historical charm and modern entertainment.