The Showbox: From Ellington To Electrolush

The decades-old Showbox, which reopened under new management just over a year ago, has become one of the local club scene's most impressive successes. The eclectic mix of live bands, DJ dance nights and an energetic lounge has made it a must-stop for music fans.

It hasn't always been so.

Located at 1426 First Ave., the room opened in 1939 as the Show Box. In its prime, it featured everyone from Duke Ellington to stripper Gypsy Rose Lee, but during the war it became a dime-a-dance hall and peep show. From the '50s on, it was home at various times to a theater, furniture store, hippie teen club, bingo parlor, and, in the early '80s, a popular new-wave hangout.

Gutted and refurbished, it reopened in 1992 as the comedy club The Improv. Later, music was re-introduced, but the club closed again.

Jeff Steichen of Casa U Betcha, Ann and Daniel Stoner of the 2218 club, Art Cervantes and Martin Tobias took over the lease last year. They did some smart remodeling and began bringing in acts such as Love & Rockets, Elvis Costello and the Afghan Whigs. Good acoustics and a room that can comfortably hold more than 700 people have been part of the attraction.

The club's popular theme nights are Saturday's Electrolush, a successful and far-ranging mix of DJ-chosen music; Wednesday's Pomade, live rockabilly and swing bands hosted by DJ Hubba Hubba; and Monday's Mo' Funk, the DJ Riz dance party formerly held at Moe's.

The purchase of the building this year by Deja Vu, a national chain of strip clubs, has many wondering if the Showbox's course is about to change again. The Showbox has a lease to operate in the building until 2000, but there have been rumors it might become a strip joint.

"No table dancers yet," says Eric Edwards, Showbox manager. "There's always rumors, but so far we're fine."

Edwards credits the club's diversity for helping it survive the traditionally rough summer months. "We haven't pigeonholed ourselves," he says. "We've been able to facilitate just about every kind of music imaginable and the bands and the audiences are happy with that. I think we'll be around for a long while."

-------------------------- Hot nights at the Showbox: --------------------------

-- Willis, 9:30 p.m. Friday, $8; 206-628-0888.

-- Afrika Bambaataa, 9 p.m. Tuesday, $10; 206-628-0888.

-- Del Amitri, 8 p.m. Wednesday, $13.50; 206-628-0888.