Hello Paul,

A very wide ranging topic...but a three-pennyworth from me!

Access is important e.g. easy to get to and with good car parking. It should also be in an area where your patrons do not have to run the gauntlet of those who care to spend their evenings in less agreeable pursuits(!)

Ethos is more important that ambiance (did I spell that right?).

Make sure the guest list reflects the considered views of the audience...not the personal likes and dislikes of the organiser(s).

Have resident singers who are disciplined enough to only do the bare minimum on a guest night.

Only have amplification as a last resort.

How's that for starters?

Best wishes,

Peter