Unlike other recent venue closures, this one is not due to any scandal, tragedy, or controversy – it is simply a byproduct of its location, and of changing times. The Cyrk is located in a house, and that house is being sold.
Drek Daa’s experience as a performer led him to open the venue in 2006.
“I have performed as a spoken word poet for a few years in venues all across this continent, usually cafe places. When I bought a house I thought, ‘why not have one like that in my living room?’” says Daa. “Except mine will have an amazing setup and great sound system.”
The venue has hosted many notable local acts: most recently Romi Mayes and Jason Nowicki, as well as Keri Latimer, Scott Nolan, Twilight Hotel, and local blues legend Big Dave McLean.
Daa recalls many fond memories of these “magical shows” in the venue.
“The connection between performers and the audience was always so intimate, and the lighting and amazing sound system has hypnotized me, and I assume others, on numerous occasions.”
His decision to sell the house—venue included—was inspired by an “influx of love” into his life; he is moving out to live with “a wonderful woman.” He hopes that the house will be bought by someone with similar aspirations for the space.
The Cyrk’s final show will be held on Friday, Mar. 14, when they will host the nine-piece Dirty Catfish Brass Band. Doors are at 8 p.m., music at 9 p.m. Cover is $10 and will all go to the artists. See www.thecyrk.ca for more details.
