Sally Greene signs up to partnership with Ronnie Scott’s

Published Tuesday 17 August 2004 at 10:50

Soho jazz club Ronnie Scott’s has signed a partnership deal with chief executive of Old Vic Productions, Sally Greene, in an attempt to prevent the venue being taken over by a management chain.

Established by saxophonists Ronnie Scott and Peter King 45 years ago, the club has showcased some of the biggest international acts in live jazz and was influential in lifting the ban on transatlantic musical exchange, allowing venues to showcase American acts alongside the best of British talent.

However, since Scott’s death in 1996, the future has become increasingly uncertain for the venue in Frith Street. King, who continues to run the establishment, said: “I will be celebrating my 75th birthday in August and at this age it’s a fact that somewhere down the line I’m going to go clonk. I couldn’t be happier than I am at the moment to have something like this in my back pocket. Sally Greene’s organisation is very reputable.”

King believes the new partnership has pre-empted the building falling under the management of a pub or club chain sometime in the future. He and existing staff will continue to manage it while Greene, who already owns the Old Vic Theatre and the Criterion Theatre at Piccadilly Circus, will take up a seat on the board of directors.

In celebration of the club’s 45th anniversary, Ronnie Scott’s is hosting a gala concert at the Barbican Hall on October 23 featuring the Mingus Big Band, Cedar Walton and Lisa Stansfield. For further information and bookings contact 020 7638 8891.