Great to be Back Entertaining Sheffield Once Again

2nd August 2021

The OEC, one of Sheffield’s newest entertainment venues and part of the Owlerton Experience trio, is back open and entertaining Sheffield again - the team couldn’t be happier!

“It feels great to be back open again, doing what we love, hosting Sheffield’s best entertainment nights with our best-in-class hospitality. Despite the recent heatwave, our chefs are absolutely delighted to be back in the kitchen preparing 3-course dinners and banquets for our guests.” Rebecca Toner, OEC Conferences and Events Manager.

Built in 2019, The OEC is a striking, modern events venue in Owlerton, with a schedule of lively entertainment from the UK’s most talented comedians, sports personalities, and musicians. With a flexible layout to host private events and conferences, the OEC is unlike any other venue in Sheffield. 

In line with the Government roadmap, the OEC reopened its doors in July. Having spent most of the year rescheduling acts and tickets, the team were looking forward to hosting their reopening event, a night of comedy served up with an Indian Feast.

Laughs and Poppadum’s a Minute

On 16th July the OEC presented its first-ever stand-up comedy night to a sell-out audience. The OEC Indian Feast wowed guests – featuring an impressive poppadum tower – as they settled in for a side-splitting night of comedy. The OEC kitchen team prepared a lavish banquet of Indian cuisine classics for guests to tuck into. 

Comedians Paul Tonkinson, Gareth Richards, Steve Royle, and compere Matt Reed were on top form, clearly revelling in the opportunity to be back on stage, entertaining again. Paul Tonkinson took to the stage as first act of the evening. Paul, of Channels 4’s Big Breakfast fame, made his name on the UK comedy circuit with Michael McIntyre, to critical acclaim. 

The second act on stage was Gareth Richards, known for his fast-paced wit, delivered a rip-roaring repertoire which left the audience struggling to breathe, they were laughing so hard. Staff were concerned for the audience, who at this point, all had a belly full of Indian culinary delights!

The third act to the stage was Steve Royle. Steve rose to fame as a Britain’s Got Talent finalist in 2020. Famously adored by contest judge Alisha Dixon, "The act that reduced me to tears of joy... and had me in hysterics is you, Steve, I just love you.” Steve did not disappoint; vast swathes of the audience were crying with laughter throughout Steve’s act – truly a British talent!

“Our reopening night was a resounding success; the audience were roaring with laughter all night. Lockdown has been tough for business, especially hospitality and entertainment venues. The audience needed a good night out as much as our team needed to get back to doing what they love. It really couldn’t have been better” says Rebecca.

Party Vibes and Positive Times

The future looks fun at the OEC. The venue has a full schedule of events into 2022 – keeping Sheffield well fed and entertained throughout the summer, into autumn, and beyond. OEC live events are perfect for friends and family get-togethers, work parties, and milestone celebrations like birthdays and hen parties. Every event guarantees a night for guests to really let their hair down and party in style. The OEC team deliver first-class hospitality and delicious, quality food, so guests can focus on the important things like partying the night away with loved ones.

“We encourage anyone wanting a proper night out, celebrating with positive vibes, fantastic food and entertainment, to check out the OEC live events schedule. Our festive party nights are on the horizon, and I can tell you, it’s going to be a Christmas to remember!” Martrece Jones, OEC Conference and Events Coordinator.

The OEC is available for private hire including conferences, banquets, weddings, and parties, with a full schedule of live entertainment throughout the year: www.OECSheffield.co.uk