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With just one month left before ROJO nightclub closes its doors for the final time, the owner of the Beresford Street venue has shared a bittersweet look back at nearly two decades of music, memories, and the evolving face of Jersey's after-dark entertainment...
As the island's nightlife scene prepares to lose one of its most iconic venues on the 27 July, ROJO owner JP Anquetil sat down with Express to share his thoughts on the industry's challenges and changes.
"There have been so many it's hard to pick out the best ones.
"We've had some of the biggest names in dance music perform such as Patrick Topping, CamelPhat and Roger Sanchez from the house music scene.
Pictured: ROJO owner JP Anquetil.
"From the Drum and Bass scene, we've had Bou, S.PY and A Little Sound and also artists such as David Rodigan.
"Most of these are now playing huge arenas to tens of thousands of revellers.
"We held a crowdfunder after having accumulated £45,000 of debt after Covid forced the club to close — which was particularly special.
"We had over 600 people donate which was simply incredible.
"Each donor's name is proudly displayed on our wall of love in the club.
"We'll need to find a new home for that."
"As I've already alluded to it was simply incredible. I was blown away by the response.
"It was a lot of money which in reality for a large venue such as ours allowed us to keep going for about a month which is what we needed before States funding started to come through.
"Without it, we probably wouldn't have made it.
Pictured: A 'vintage' inspired bar is found on the ground floor, featuring deep colours and dimmed lighting.
"The nighttime economy was at the very bottom of the Government's list. It was the sector that closed first and opened last.
"I don't believe the government sees any value in it and I can't see that changing. Finance and construction that's all we need. There must be space for a few more flats!"
"There are a few factors. The general attitude towards going out has changed since the pandemic.
"A lot of people realised they quite enjoyed just staying at home and that it was a lot cheaper.
"Jersey is also in a strange place at the moment. It's hugely expensive to live here and there is little to do. When the sun's out it's great but that's not so often.
"People seem to be leaving in droves particularly the 18 to 30 age range.
"That at least seems to be on politicians' radar now but not much seems to be happening.
"I can't see any research being done into what young people want and no doubt money will be thrown at projects without any consultation.
I spoke to an elderly politician recently who didn't seem to think there was any problem and that things were just fine as they were with peace and quiet.
Pictured: In 2021, ROJO ran a successful crowdfunding campaign that raised over £16,000.
"Getting air time for these issues in the States is difficult. As usual finance and construction are the drivers for our government. Keeping the books looking good so that the finance industry continues to thrive.
"Even that industry seems to be shrinking and then what?
"Obviously the cost of alcohol which has continual duty rises in the name of health and yet does nothing to reduce drinking levels.
"In fact it's done the opposite by driving people to drink at home and brought in the age of pre-drinking.
"It's an absolute failure but yet a very easy way to raise funds.
"No one in the government actually believes that duty rises will reduce drinking levels but it helps keep the coffers full.
"Education is the only way to reduce drinking, no amount of price rises or prohibition will work as history has shown."
"It's simply outdated and doesn't fit modern hospitality. It is based on categories such as taverns, restaurants and entertainment. It's quite rigid and inflexible.
"You still need to apply for an extension for NYE and when the clocks go forward.
"You can't have entertainment on Good Friday.
Pictured: The Rojo Roof terrace was one of the few al fresco areas in town, although the roof was mainly covered in recent years.
"Getting an extension to try and stay open a bit later for a special occasion is almost impossible at least for a 03:00 extension.
"We have been trying to get a 03:00 extension for our closing party which isn't looking hopeful at the moment."
"Developers building new flats overlooking our roof terrace and the inevitable noise complaints; how Planning allowed that is anyone's guess.
"We simply do our best to find a balance between keeping our customers and new neighbours happy.
"Footfall in the part of town we are located has always been difficult. Most of the night time economy is focused around the vicinity of the Weighbridge.
"We've had to deliver a steady stream of events to entice people to make the walk over. If we were located on or near the Weighbridge I think it would have been easier."
"Don't start a nightclub or bar in Jersey!
"If you're thinking of opening a place try and get a free house so you can shop about for the best prices."
"There's a lot of things I could have done better.
"With the benefit of hindsight I would have kept it simple with a sports bar and nightclub.
Pictured: In February 2017, ROJO faced an incident where they had to cut off music due to safety concerns caused by too many people jumping on the dance floor at the same time.
"We initially tried to keep it upmarket cocktails and tapas but the building is too big for that."
"I think predominantly from the diverse array of music and events we've supported.
"We've provided a space for artists to express themselves which would otherwise not have been possible.
"We've covered almost every genre of music on the planet."
"Personally I think it will be great to take time out from the industry and be able to reflect on it.
"I can't see myself returning to bars and nightclubs.
"I'm a co-owner of Wonky which I'm constantly trying to push forward.
Pictured: JP Anquetil is a co-owner of The Wonky Factory, which has held events at locations such as Fort Regent and Howard Davis Park.
"That in itself is another battle within the events industry. I'm really proud of where Wonky has got to.
"We're constantly trying to improve and keep things interesting with new themes, locations and plans for expansion. Watch this space.
"I'd love someone to pick up the baton and keep the venue going.
"I think it's the longest-running entertainment venue in St.Helier with a rich history in its various guises as Lords, The Venue, La Cala and now Rojo.
"Unfortunately I don't think that is going to happen. I could be wrong and to be honest I'm not sure what the landlord has planned."
"A lot. The reality is that I've run out of energy going on about it.
"After 20 years in the industry I can't see anything changing.
"The hospital and Fort Regent are good examples of how frustrating it is to get anything done.
"I can't see any light at the end of the tunnel.
Pictured: Paul Hedgie Herridge and JP Anquetil putting together the many pieces of the festival jigsaw at the Wonky Weekend Festival at Fort Regent in 2022. (Rob Currie)
"Jersey seems to be in a strange place at the moment.
"I guess one thing I would say is don't always let the vocal minority get their way.
"The reality is that the majority want to have a good night out but they aren't the type to be constantly complaining or lobbying.
"Maybe they should start."
"I've been thinking about this a lot as there's so many people to thank.
"I don't really know where to start and my worry is that I will miss someone out.
"We've had some really amazing loyal customers, incredible staff many of whom are now friends, some of the best promoters, a tremendous manager in Phil and a wonderful small group of investors.
Pictured: 22 Beresford Street has previously operated under different names, including Lords, The Venue, and La Cala.
"Not rich people, a small collective that put their hard earned money in as they believed in the project.
"It's a shame I haven't been able to keep it going. And obviously the crowdfunders without whom we would not have made it this far.|
"Our last event is on Saturday 27 July. We have over 40 DJs and performers playing from 14:00 until 02:00.
"It's free all day and night so please call in to see us."
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