The Smokehouse is a 70-capacity micro-venue in the heart of one of our most diverse wards in Ipswich. Hosting over 100 gigs per year (put on by external promotors and bands), The Smokehouse offers first rung opportunities to young and aspiring artists.
Opened in 2016, The Smokehouse is a 70-capacity micro-venue in the heart of one of the most diverse wards in Ipswich, Suffolk, operated by live music organisation Brighten The Corners.
Hosting over 100 gigs per year (put on by external promotors and bands), The Smokehouse offers first rung opportunities to young and aspiring artists, promotors and DJs.
The venue is driven by volunteers with a DIY aesthetic enabling artists to reach new audiences and further their potential. The venue is available to hire, with 90% of the gigs at the Smokehouse promoted by local and national promoters and bands, as well as our own year-round programme of shows in the venue under ‘Brighten The Corners Presents’.
The Smokehouse provides industry leading equipment including PA, backline and lighting ensuring both artists and audience have the highest quality experience. The venue can also stream high quality HD multi-camera video with crystal-clear mixed audio in-sync.
Previous acts who have played here include Penelope Isles, Ishmael Ensemble, Snapped Ankles, Robyn Hitchcock, Warmduscher, TOY, W.H. Lung, Coach Party and Ural Thomas.