The Jago is a vibrant and eclectic nightclub and live music venue located in Dalston, East
London, United
Kingdom. Housed within a building that has long been associated with the area’s nightlife and cultural scene, The Jago occupies the space previously known as Passing
Clouds, a venue which itself earned legendary status for its community-focused programming before its closure in 2016. After a period of uncertainty and campaigning from local supporters, the space was reborn as The Jago in 2018, named after the historic nickname for the area drawn from Arthur Morrison's 1896 novel "A Child of the Jago." With its rich and colorful décor, multifaceted performance spaces, and commitment to inclusivity, The Jago has quickly established itself as a
central hub for artists, music
lovers, and cultural innovators in East
London.
The venue is celebrated for its diverse curation, hosting genres ranging from jazz, reggae, and afrobeat to electronic, folk, and spoken word, regularly attracting a multicultural crowd and offering a platform for both emerging and established talent. Over time, The Jago has retained the bohemian and community-oriented spirit of its predecessor while embracing technological updates and structural improvements to its performance and social spaces, ensuring both intimate acoustic gigs and energetic late-night dance events can thrive. Its reputation for musical diversity and grassroots activism, as well as its vital role in sustaining
London’s DIY music scene, make The Jago culturally significant, especially in an era when many similar venues face redevelopment pressures.
The club’s welcoming ethos, strong ties with the local community, and dedication to promoting underrepresented voices have established it as an influential venue in
London’s ever-changing entertainment landscape. Notable artists
who have graced the stage at The Jago include the
Mercury-nominated UK jazz group Sons of Kemet, Grammy-winning reggae legend Andrew Tosh, genre-defying band Nubiyan Twist, innovative DJ
Gilles Peterson, as well as respected local talents such as Brixton Chamber Orchestra, genre-blending vocalist Aadae, and rising soul singer Amy True. Additionally, the venue has played host to collectives like Jazz re:freshed, international acts such as Vula Viel, and an array of globally-influenced performers reflecting the rich cultural tapestry of
London itself.