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Taking a trip down memory lane as we revisit Hollywood nightclub in Ipswich
The Hollywood sign that would illuminate the outside of the building - Credit: Archant
If you were going out in Ipswich in the late 1980s and 1990s, the chances are that was to Hollywood nightclub.
Hollywood’s officially opened in Ipswich in 1988 in the former maltings building close to the railway station.
With large bars to cater to the masses, the opening night was packed out as everyone wanted to check out the newest nightclub in town.
It became famous for its Monday indie nights, DJs and dancers. It was so popular that people would queue over the Princes Street bridge to get in.
As well as club nights, Hollywood also hosted children’s parties with Santa in attendance at the Christmas 1988 party.
The following year, 1989, saw the nightclub host the annual carnival queen pageant, with many in competition for the crown.
Well known performers also made appearances at Hollywoods, as Dannii Minogue visited in May 1991.
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During the 1990s the venue was given a makeover and its name was changed to Kartouche and it managed to attract a number of well-known DJs and celebrity appearances.
In 2003 it had another change of identity to Zest.
Its closure as a nightclub came very suddenly.
During the early hours of Saturday, December 9 2006 24-year-old Londoner Jimoh Plunkett was shot and killed during a major disturbance at the club. There were around 800 revellers there at the time. The borough council ordered its closure the following month.
In 2011 it was converted into the Malthouse live music venue – but it closed at the end of February last year.
Did you enjoy nights out at Hollywoods during the 90s? Let us know via email