Openings

Noel Ashman Returns to Promote Amnesia, But Don’t Call It His New Club

The space as Ruby Falls.
The space as Ruby Falls.

A couple of nightlife legends are back on the scene. Amy Sacco, whose Bungalow 8 remains closed (the number is disconnected), is hosting an art opening for a former Bungalow bartender, Ryan Metke, at Openhouse Gallery on December 15. But the real news is that Noel Ashman, who closed the Plumm this summer (and left a few very vocal former employees stewing about money owed), is hosting the grand opening of Amnesia, a new club at 609 West 29th Street. So is this the venue he promised would have the toughest door out there? Actually, no: The invite makes sure to specify that “this is not Noel Ashman’s new club. He is a special guest host.” So who’s behind the venue?

A call reveals that Amnesia is the new project from a duo known simply as Joe and Felix, who are also said to be renovating their Harlem club, Body. They’ve turned the cavernous former warehouse that once housed Ruby Falls and Sol into what manager Andy Driggs (an alum of the Roxy, Deep, and Avalon) calls a “fun zone that’s trying to go back to the old days.”

With 45-foot ceilings, the requisite laser lights, and an open dance floor (the giant island bar that was formerly in the middle of the room has been removed), there’s no doubt this’ll be a return to big clubbing — that is, if the team of promoters (including Ashman) can fill the space, which accommodates 900 to 1,100 thanks in part to two new mezzanines. James (from Pacha and Deep) will man the door, but we’re assured “everyone’s welcome,” bottle service won’t be an absolute requirement, and prices for well drinks will be $8 or $9. Starting next week, hours are from 10 p.m. till 4 a.m., Thursday through Saturday. So go ahead — download that glowstick app to your iPhone.

Amnesia, 609 W. 29th St., Eleventh Ave.; 212-643-6464

Noel Ashman Returns to Promote Amnesia, But Don’t Call It His New Club