Not everyone was convinced there was room for another live music venue in Leamington, but the Assembly has played host to sixties legends and rising indie stars alike since it opened last year.
And according to promotions manager Vas Stylianos it is on course to become the Midland's premier music venue.
Owner Nigel Dalley spent £3.2 million transforming the Spencer Street venue, previously a bingo hall, and so far his prophecy that it wo
uld "attract lots of great acts without a shadow of a doubt" has come true.
Restored to its original 1920s splendour, but given a blue and silver makeover by interior designer Laurence Llewellyn-Bowen, the venue's unique setting and ability to accommodate 1,000 yet retain an intimate feel has appealed to audiences, agents and bands alike.
Vas, 27, said: "It's exactly where Nigel wanted it to be a year down the line and we are doing better every month.
"Everyone wants the Assembly to be the natural choice for all major touring acts for their Midlands show."
The former bass player with Coventry band Broken Dolls attributes some of the venue's success to its booker Chris Alexander who worked for the London Astoria for 20 years.
He said: "The national promoters have taken an interest because it's an independent venue and a lot bands are getting tired of the corporate sponsored tour and are looking for something different.
"It has developed its own momentum. It helps that our promoter knows everyone in the industry - he has worked with everyone from U2 to Coldplay and Radiohead.
"Also, all the equipment here is new and works - you would be surprised how many big venues have things wrong with their PA."
So far only one act booked to appear has cancelled and that was due to the singer of King Blues losing his voice.
The Assembly's artists' area featuring dodgems, a giant Smurf and an extravagant pink caravan once owned by country singer Tammy Wynette, is an added attraction for bands.
Jason Pierce of indie rockers Spiritualized lived in the caravan when the band performed at the venue in May and US act Hayseed Dixie returned to use it for a photoshoot.
Vas, who booked acts for Manchester University's student union when he studied there, said: "The biggest thing for us has been the artists' response to the place.
"They are welcomed in instead of being left to their own devices and the artists' area is a big selling point - there is nowhere else like it in the country.
"The Kooks didn't want to go back to their hotel room and instead invited all the staff down to the artists' area for drinks. Zane Lowe really wants to come back and Lisa Williams, who is known to be a diva, said the show was the best of her European tour."
The venue has also established some popular club nights including Cortina 90s and Joy Comedy Club.
Big name comedians and entertainers who have graced the stage so far include Russell Kane and Henry Rollins.
As a Leamington resident Vas thinks the venue is a "godsend" for the town.
He added: "No one could imagine having a place like this before it opened - it suits the town and it would be weird without it now."
The Fall, the Enemy and the New York Dolls are all on the bill in coming months and Vas is also keen to promote Leamington band Akeal, who are playing a warm-up gig at the Assembly before supporting the Enemy on the first half of their tour.
He said: "It's great to support a local band. The have done phenomenally well and this will help them raise the funds for the tour."
For more information visit www.leamingtonassembly.com
