The Waterloo – an iconic venue that has been on the corner of Ann St and Commercial Rd for over a total of 130 years (73 years as the title ‘Waterloo Hotel’).
A venue that has seen many famous bands and pubescent famous bands undertook a 6 million dollar facelift over the last two years, in a bid to vie for title of the ‘in place’ to be for Valley night life. With the next door neighbour (Emporium) taking socialites to the bottom end off the Valley for quite some time now, the Waterloo (along with other venues) have decided to create a hub of places in the eastern end of Fortitude Valley.
The lighting and décor is spectacular, modern vintage you would call it. Keeping in with current trends there are ‘pockets’ of space with unique décor for people to mingle and mull in their own group – almost creating ‘homeliness’ tailored to each person’s taste.
The cocktails were delightful, champagne vodka Redbull and Midori Splice, both sweet but tasteful. Unfortunately I was driving, so there was no room for multiple tastings. But the bar is lit up like a beacon, luring people to the core of the venue.
The staff were bringing around appetising food, but when asked what the items were only a blank face looked back at you with an explanation of “I am not sure, we usually work at the Regatta Hotel”.
This at times you can forgive, but the cardinal sin for any launch/ opening/ event is when the sound is ‘off’. The screeching echo sound in your ears is not what anyone would call fun. Also consider the type of entertainment for an opening night as I am not convinced this one was appropriate to the market within in the venue, however, if the entertainment was able to be heard it may have been a different story.
After speaking to the co-organisers of the night it was mentioned that there had been a sound check done earlier that night, but I had to ask “Was the sound check done with the band?” It seems apparent this may have been their downfall.
Now, there are important things that need to be considered when a venue is being refurbished, 4 ladies toilets for a venue capacity of over 300 is not exactly what I would call genius, with the line up out the door the ladies (or men) have a great view of the kitchen in action. Maybe this is a strategic move to take their minds off the fact that they wait for over 20 minutes to go to the ladies.
I am not sure I would be rushing back to book this venue anytime soon, traditionally opening nights are designed to exceed expectations, with key people attending it provides the opportunity to put your best foot forward.
In this instance Waterloo, you have a fantastic refurbished venue, but next time an event such as this presents itself to you please ensure that your entertainment and sound is perfect.
Sim G
Simonegivney's Blog 