Tails Piano Bar and Lounge celebrates its official opening today at 115 S. Front St, the former home of Aubriana’s.
 
The space has been transformed into a lounge that brings together vintage and modern décor, reflecting the turn-of-the-century style of top hats and tails. The space glistens with crystal chandeliers while the ivory piano, a 1924 Sohmer baby grand that came from a home in Wrightsville Beach, takes center stage.
 
According to spokesman Travis Gilbert, Tails owner Gregg Thomas, a downtown resident and longtime patron of the arts, felt a need for this type of venue following the closure of Costello’s Piano Bar last summer.
 
Gilbert said Tails is designed to be a relaxing place to enjoy conversation and the music of quality performers. There will be live music nightly, featuring both local and national acts.
 
Upcoming performers include: James Jarvis, Barry Langston, Sylvia John Ritchie, Tom Noonan, Jane Houseal, Donna Merritt and Daniel Korzelius.
 
A private membership club, Tails will not have a dress code, but Gilbert said he hopes guests will honor the refinement of the space.
 
In addition to wine and beer, Greg Matheson of the City Club has developed a craft cocktail list, and charcuterie and cheese boards are available for snacking. Advanced reservations are accepted for the lounge area, which can accommodate approximately 20 guests, while seating in the main room is first-come, first-serve. The courtyard garden will open later this spring, providing additional seating and event space.
 
Opening night will feature an after-party for the 2018 Wilmington Theatre Awards being held at Thalian Hall. Gilbert said that as part of his business plan, Thomas plans to sponsor a variety of local musical theater productions.
 
Tails Piano Bar and Lounge is located at 115 S. Front St. and is open from 5 p.m. to 2 a.m. Wednesday through Saturday and 3 p.m. to midnight Sunday. Visit the Tails Piano Bar and Lounge website for the entertainment line-up as well as reservation information.
 
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