My example comes from outside of the folk club world. Here in Manchester we have a fair few acoustic/nu-folk (or whatever you want to call it this week) nights. They are of variable quality, but one such night, Hedge, a monthly do at the Carlton Club in Whalley Range, really is pretty good (and nearly always gets a good turn out - usually a mixture of regulars, people who like the particular guest on offer and the randomly curious).

The venue, affectionate though we all feel to it, is a bit of a rotting hulk, so in order to improve the ambience (which whatever people might say, makes a difference - I've been to some rubbish venues in my time that I wouldn't rush back to...), the organiser covers the formica topped tables with paper table cloths; puts a tea light in a lantern-type holder and a flower in a painted beer bottle on each table (punters sit round tables rather than in school assemby style rows); hangs a large dark coloured backdrop with sparkles behind the stage area; douses most of the harsh, overhead lights and lights the stage area with spotlights. It creates a really nice atmosphere and sets the scene for a good night out because it's possible to see the care and attention to detail being lavished on you as the punter. A lot of local singers and musicians turn up - as punters - but equally a lot of non-musicians. The people on the door are friendly, smiley, welcoming and talkative as is the host/MC. When there are 'floorsingers' (though they are not called that) they perform early on so people who are less tolerant to that sort of thing can turn up a bit later. Between sets there is a DJ playing folkiedokie music for a bit of continuity and background ambience. There is no resident band, but at one point the host's band, Cortina Deluxx, fulfilled this function - but they always went on early and always kept their set short. Oh and the support as well as main act are guests.

Essentially its a concert club that has borrowed elements from the folk club. It wouldn't necessarily be for everyone (hardliners certainly wouldn't find it folky enough, not that it makes any claims to be) but I think they have a pretty good model and one that clearly works.

Not that it matters, but did I mention that the majority of the performers and audience (and the organisers) are in their twenties and thirties? At forty four I'm usually one of the oldest there.

Don't know if this helps the discussion any, but I thought I'd throw it into the pot and see what people thought.

Here's their Myspace if you'd like to take a closer look: Hedge