Another Setback For Brooklyn Mirage Reopening—More Shows Relocated

BROOKLYN, NY — Brooklyn Mirage’s reopening is fashionably late—by several weeks. Meanwhile, another show has quietly been relocated, adding to the growing list of delays.

The spacious venue, located within the Avant Gardner complex, has been closed for several months during renovations aimed at improving the sound system and expanding the dance floor.

Originally set to reopen with two sold-out performances by Sara Landry on May 2 and 3, Brooklyn Mirage was unable to welcome guests back after failing to obtain the necessary permits from building inspectors following the upgrades.

A public statement from the venue’s operators said the revamped space is fully constructed and meets updated safety and technical standards. However, final compliance wasn’t achieved in time to meet inspection deadlines, pushing back the reopening once again.

As a result, over 17 artists have announced cancellations or rescheduling of their shows, many of which had sold out at the Mirage.

On Friday, ticketing platform Dice notified fans that the venue’s highly anticipated Boiler Room events, scheduled for July 11 and 12, would be moved to a different location. Both nights will now take place at Under The K Bridge in Greenpoint, which has absorbed a sizable portion of the Mirage’s displaced calendar.

"We apologize to our incredible community of fans, artists, crew members, and staff for the delay. Although the Brooklyn Mirage is opening later than anticipated, we are making great progress towards opening our doors," the company wrote on social media. "We take responsibility for the delay and are working diligently with the City of New York to make sure that we meet all regulations and requirements, so that we can deliver a safe and unforgettable experience for everyone."

Last week, Billboard reported that Avant Gardner had brought in hedge fund founder Andrew Axelrod — a close associate of former CEO Billy Bildstein — to help secure the Department of Buildings permits required to reopen the venue.

Meanwhile, internal leadership has shifted. CEO Josh Wyatt, who took over the role in October, was fired last month, according to an internal email posted on social media and confirmed by Billboard.

“Effective immediately, Josh Wyatt is no longer with Avant Gardner,” read the internal email, which was posted on social media. "We appreciate Josh for his contributions and wish him the best in his future endeavors."

The message also stated that non-executive Chairman of the Board Gary Richards would step in as interim CEO to oversee day-to-day operations.

City records show that several of Brooklyn Mirage’s construction permits remain “on hold,” and that the venue has yet to obtain a Temporary Place of Assembly Certificate of Operation from the Department of Buildings — a key requirement for welcoming the public back inside.

"We deeply appreciate the patience and support of our community as we work 24/7 to bring you the groundbreaking experience we promised with the new Brooklyn Mirage," the company said. "We’re committed to keeping you informed and will share updates about our progress and expected opening date."