Gonzo's Two Room, A Small Club, Wins Big At BBC Radio 1 Dance Awards
A small nightclub has made waves by clinching the prestigious Best Venue (UK and Europe) award at the 2025 BBC Radio 1 Dance Awards, demonstrating the power of community support.
Theoclub, located in Norwich city centre, was up against formidable competition from larger venues across the UK and Europe, including renowned mega-clubs from Ibiza, London, and Manchester. Owner Mike Baxter expressed his disbelief at the accolade, stating, "To win it is weird, surreal, humbling, and amazing. I am a little bit lost for words."
Describing what sets Gonzo's Two Room apart, Baxter added, "I think what is different about us is we have artists come and we treat them like regular people and bring theminto our home." This unique approach, he believes, has redefined the clubbing experience by fostering genuine connections between artists and the crowd.
Stars like Charli XCX, The Blessed Madonna, and Confidence Man also took home accolades at the event, broadcast live by Radio 1's Danny Howard, Sarah Story, and Pete Tong.
Story, who presented the award to Baxter's crew, shared her appreciation for the venue, saying, "I'm like 'it's in Norwich', and they were like 'what's happening in Norwich?' I was like 'the best club in the country.'" Her remarks resonate strongly, highlighting the club's reputation within the broader music community.
Since opening its doors in 2021, Gonzo's Two Room has carved out a niche for music lovers who desire intimate experiences away from the commercialized club scene.
Baxter expressed gratitude to the Norwich community, stating, "We want to thank Norwich itself. Thank you for voting." His sentiment highlights the collective effort from locals who supported the venue during the public voting process.
Gonzo's Two Room epitomizes the idea of being the 'underdog'—a place where dance music enthusiasts can enjoy quality entertainment without the overwhelming commercialization found at larger venues. This club's success serves as an inspiration for all passionate music lovers.
The recognition received at the awards night showcases how small, dedicated venues can thrive by creating authentic experiences and building strong relationships within their communities. By prioritizing the artistic connection over sheer size or fame, Gonzo's Two Room stands as a beacon for individuality and passion within the music industry.
With this award, Gonzo's Two Room doesn't just celebrate its victory but also symbolizes the spirit of dance music culture, reminding everyone of the magic found within smaller, unique venues.