Brooklyn Mirage Faces Demolition as Bankruptcy Issues Mount

A recent demolition permit filed by the famed electronic music venue is a death knell amid a disastrous year marred by failed inspections and a $155.3 million bankruptcy.

The Brooklyn Mirage is likely to be razed after its owner filed for a demolition permit, signaling a dramatic end to months of financial and regulatory turmoil.

The application seeks to demolish 32,000 square feet of the venue, which is part of the larger Avant Gardner complex in East Williamsburg spanning roughly 80,000 square feet. The estimated demolition cost is $1.5 million, according to The Real Deal.

Brooklyn Mirage’s troubles began in 2023 following two patron deaths, though Avant Gardner denied responsibility. Despite those controversies, the venue continued operating until closing for renovations earlier this year, with a planned May 1st reopening and a full summer schedule featuring performances by many EDM superstars, including Black Coffee and The Chainsmokers.

Following an ambitious $30 million renovation, a financial crisis unfolded as the famed electronic music venue faced operational setbacks, most notably contentious permit issues and safety inspection failures. Its proprietors ultimately ousted beleaguered CEO Josh Wyatt and replaced him with storied nightlife entrepreneur Gary Richards, who also tours as the renowned DJ and producer Destructo.

The reopening plans never materialized and Avant Gardner ultimately cancelled the venue’s entire season of shows, dealing a death knell to its expected revenues. They ultimately filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy with $155.3 million in debt and no clear path to profitability amid a growing pile of “severely overdue” bills.

Now, a reported settlement proposal with creditors would see an affiliate of the company’s lender purchase the Mirage’s assets after no other qualified bids emerged. A hearing to approve the sale is scheduled for October 22nd.