Help us find the Aquarius nightclub’s most popular act

It was arguably the town’s most famous nightclub that ran for nearly a quarter of a century on Sheffield Road.
By Neil AndersonContributor
Published 16th Feb 2024, 11:41 BST

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As the region counts down to two reunion nights starring the Grumbleweeds – the celebrated comedy act that played many sell-out nights at the Aquarius – the search is on to find out the most popular artist ever to perform.

A poll is running on Facebook for people to vote for their most popular act and can be found at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/dsogto1980schesterfield/permalink/7406169559430639/

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Former club musicians, artists and a mystery guest are set to turn the clock back to the days of chicken-in-a-basket meals as part of the climax of a two-year Heritage Lottery Project to celebrate the Aquarius next month. They will also be joined by Dronfield’s own Stephanie King who played some of the earliest shows at the venue.

The Grumbleweeds in 1973The Grumbleweeds in 1973
The Grumbleweeds in 1973

The Aquarius, which first opened on Sheffield Road in 1972, was an instant hit. It brought some of the biggest names in entertainment to perform for local audiences.

Names like Bob Monkhouse, Charlie Williams, Cannon & Ball, Ken Dodd and scores of others all wowed local crowds in the 1970s and 1980s.

Coaches came from miles around to experience the atmosphere

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Neil Anderson of the Dirty Stop Outs that has been working on the project said: “It has been a privilege to meet so many former staff, artists and club-goers over the past few months. There is a real love for the club and these two nights are set to celebrate it and bring former club-goers back together. We’ll also be recording memories on the night so please feel free to speak to us!”

The reunion eventThe reunion event
The reunion event

The Aquarius nights are set to take place on Thursday, March 14th and Friday, March 15th, at Dronfield’s popular Hilltop Sports & Social Club, Longacre Road, S18 1UQ. The event starts at 8pm.

Entry is just £15 (£20 with food) and all proceeds will go to Ashgate Hospice.

Tickets can be purchased from www.dirtystopouts.com or in person from the club

More information from 07745 942701.

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