Brooklyn Mirage Plans Demolition of Bankrupt Venue After Filing

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Brooklyn Mirage Plans Demolition of Bankrupt Venue After Filing

Brooklyn Mirage, a famed live music venue located in East Williamsburg, is facing demolition following a series of setbacks. The demolition permit filed by the building’s owner covers 32,000 square feet of the Avant Gardner complex that spans approximately 80,000 square feet. The projected demolition cost is $1.5 million.

Challenges Leading to Demolition

The venue’s troubles began in 2023, with two separate incidents of attendees found deceased after events. Although denying responsibility, these tragedies marked the start of significant challenges. Following these incidents, Brooklyn Mirage underwent costly renovations and set a re-opening date for May 1. However, it failed to reopen due to inspection setbacks.

  • The Department of Buildings (DOB) revoked the venue’s temporary occupancy certificate.
  • Safety and technical compliance issues were cited by the DOB, leading to its closure.

Leadership and Financial Struggles

Avant Gardner replaced its CEO with Gary Richards, known professionally as DJ Destructo, amid an ongoing financial crisis. Despite a summer lineup of scheduled performances, the venue’s operations were halted, exacerbating financial troubles.

Date Event
Early August Avant Gardner’s parent company filed for bankruptcy with $153.3 million in debt.
October 22 Scheduled hearing to approve the venue asset sale.

Bankruptcy Proceedings and Future Prospects

Amid bankruptcy, Avant Gardner owes creditors $153.3 million. Despite efforts, the company encountered difficulties finding a buyer, according to insider reports. Recently, a proposed settlement with creditors emerged, and a lender affiliate plans to acquire the venue’s assets, as documented during the bankruptcy process.

The venue’s survival hangs on the outcome of the scheduled court hearing, determining the next steps for this iconic space. Emegypt will continue to report on this developing story.