Marilyn becomes a 'boogie woogie country girl'
FAREWELL VIRGINIA'S
London's longest-running rockabilly night is to close after 12 years, as its organiser moves out of town to run an inn.

Marilyn
Moving on... Marilyn
Virginia Creepers will hold its final night on December 19th, going out in style with a gig by Mike Sanchez at the Boston Arms in Tufnell Park.

"It hurts to go," says Marilyn Coleman.   "We've had a big and loyal following who are a bit devastated to hear we're movin' on.   But we have had enough of life in the big smoke."

She started Virginia's as "a rockin' alternative to those staid, pokey rock'n'roll nights in London".

"It catered for all rockers, posers, and go-goers on the scene in the pre 9/11 days of 1997, from rockabilly to fetish.   We were among the first to do burlesque.   The decor changed every month and we came up with the most bizarre combinations.   Bands included Darrel Higham, Paul Ansell, Jake Vegas, Carlos, etc   We also gave a first chance to bands such as Joe Whitney & The Tropics, The Noisettes, The Rockats, Al & The Black Cats, The Bad Breed and The Cathouse Creepers.   DJs Dave Croisier, Bill Smoker, Mouse, Reb, David TG, Big Beat Kris and El Nino ripped it up for Virginia time and time again."

Hell hole

In 2000 Virginia Creepers found a long term home at the Water Rats Theatre near Kings Cross.   But things turned sour in November 2007 with Marilyn branding the venue a "hell hole", fed up at having to 'timeshare' gig nights with other promoters and their bands.

Since then the club has bounced around several pubs in North London - most recently the Boston Arms, venue for the final gig.   "It will be emotional for me," admits Marilyn.   "But I'm happy to have had such an influence on the scene.   It's very definitely the end of an era."

Shabby chic

Blue Pigeons With her partner Ray she has bought a hotel in Kent.   At the Blue Pigeons in the village of Worth, near Deal they hope to cater to the rockin' crowd... without upsetting the locals.

"We have an acre of garden and a restaurant/function room.   We hear they're already used to custom car events, but yes, we have to be very careful to keep good relations going.   It's an idyllic hamlet.   We will not be overtly rockabilly.   I want the place to look decadent, shabby chic.   The seven rooms will eventually be themed.   There'll be a Johnny Cash room, a pin-up room, plus gothic, deco, 50s and 60s.   There will be a marquee in the garden for weddings etc and a hilbilly weekender at some time in the future.   It's a going concern and well known.   It just needs enthusiasm and TLC.   We are gutting it downstairs and giving it a paint job plus window boxes, decking and glass doors for the restaurant.   We're excited about it all... but also a bit out of our comfort zone!"

Mike Sanchez and The Muleskinners play the last ever Virginia Creepers on December 19th at the Boston Arms, 178 Junction Road, London N19 5QQ   Tickets £18/£22.   More info on 07956 295842

If it jumps, jives, bops or strolls we want to know about it.   or call 07833 703189.