About Mod Club Theatre
The Mod Club Theatre is an iconic live music venue at 722 College Street in Toronto’s Little Italy (www.themodclub.com ). It began as a 1960s-themed “mod” dance night launched by DJ Mark Holmes in 1999 (www.blogto.com ), then settled into a permanent two-story space (in a historic 1922 building) in 2002 (ca.billboard.com ) (www.themodclub.com ). With a capacity of roughly 600 people (en.wikipedia-on-ipfs.org ), the club’s retro décor and intimate setting quickly made it a local favorite. For nearly two decades it was a cornerstone of Toronto’s music scene (ca.billboard.com ). Notable early shows include artists like Amy Winehouse, The Killers and Sia (ca.billboard.com ). After a brief closure in 2020, it reopened as “The Axis Club” in 2021 under new ownership and has since reclaimed the Mod Club name (returning to its classic brand in mid-2024) (nowtoronto.com ).
Events and Programming
The Mod Club hosts a broad mix of live music shows and club nights. You’ll find everything from indie rock, alternative and soul to electronic, hip-hop and R&B acts on the calendar. Many shows are ticketed concerts (often standing room), and the venue fills up quickly for popular acts. For example, Toronto R&B singer Daniel Caesar sold out a hometown debut here in 2016 (nowtoronto.com ), and came back for an intimate NXNE showcase in 2024 (nowtoronto.com ). Over the years the club also welcomed numerous up-and-comers – Drake, The Weeknd and Post Malone all played here in their early days (nowtoronto.com ) – making it a favorite launchpad for rising stars.
Typically there are shows most nights when events are booked. You’ll often see local bands and DJs sharing the bill with touring artists. The official schedule (online via themodclub.com or through ticket partners) lists dozens of upcoming gigs, so regular club nights and one-off concerts occur frequently. Production-wise, many acts bring full stage setups: sound is professionally mixed on-site and lighting rigs with LED panels enhance every performance. Tickets vary by show; small local gigs might be as low as $20–30, while headliners can be $40–60 or more. (Premium options like balcony seating or meet-&-greet passes may also be offered on some bills.)
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for Mod Club shows are sold online through official outlets (Live Nation, Ticketmaster or similar) and in person at the venue. A small rooftop-style box office is at the main entrance and opens only on show nights (at the door time listed) (www.themodclub.com ). It will sell any remaining tickets that evening, but only for that day’s event, and it operates cashless (www.themodclub.com ). Will-call tickets can likewise be picked up at the box office with government ID and the credit card used for purchase (www.themodclub.com ). For the biggest shows, expect high demand – presales (fan or credit-card presales) and early internet releases are common, so setting up an account with the ticketing service can help. General admission is the norm, but some shows offer limited balcony or seating upgrades.
Seating and Layout
The Mod Club is primarily a general-admission venue. The floor area in front of the stage is open-standing, allowing fans to pack close to the stage. Along the sides of the main floor there are a few tables and bench seats (used occasionally for more expensive tickets). A second-level balcony wraps around the back and sides of the room, providing theater-style seating with a clear sightline over the crowd. As noted in historical descriptions, “concert-goers could watch acts from the floor, the tables to the side of the room, or the second floor balcony” (en.wikipedia-on-ipfs.org ). Two large video screens ensure that even those far from the stage get a good view of the performers. In practice, the best spot depends on preference: the floor puts you center-stage, while a spot on the balcony or at a side table keeps you seated above the crowd. Acoustically the space is well-regarded for its cleanness – one concert-goer review even praised the “good acoustics” of the hall (www.tripadvisor.com ), a benefit of the small, enclosed layout.
Getting There and Parking
The address is 722 College Street (at the corner of Pittsburgh and Crawford), a few blocks west of Bathurst (www.themodclub.com ). Public transit is strongly recommended. The venue is within walking distance of several TTC lines: you can take the Ossington bus (Route 63) or 94A Wellesley bus along College Street, or the 506 Carlton or 511 Bathurst streetcar (to Bathurst and College) (www.themodclub.com ). (Bathurst Station on the subway is roughly a 10–15 minute walk south.) For drivers, there is a pay parking lot for the Metro supermarket directly across College, plus metered street parking along College and nearby side streets (www.themodclub.com ). Rideshare/taxi drop-offs are usually done curbside on College Street by the front door.
Inside the Venue
Inside the club you’ll find a classic concert-bar setup: a raised stage at one end, a full bar along one wall, and a compact lobby/foyer area for product and ticketing. The venue has been upgraded with modern tech – an official overview notes it has a “state-of-the-art sound system” and advanced lighting including LED screens and fiber-optic ceiling panels (www.themodclub.com ). In fact, after its 2021 relaunch the new management emphasized an “overwhelming” LED wall and professional lighting/AV gear that rival much larger rooms (nowtoronto.com ). Staff screens and cameras enable live streaming and high-quality production of many shows. Amenities include an all-gender, wheelchair-accessible washroom on the main floor (www.themodclub.com ) and a coat check (small fee) for coats/bags. The bar serves beer, wine and cocktails at reasonably club-like prices (a reviewer noted “fairly priced” drinks (www.tripadvisor.com )). Expect a security checkpoint on entry – all bags are searched, and only small clear purses/bags (max ~30×15×30 cm) are allowed (www.themodclub.com ). (Large backpacks will be turned away (www.themodclub.com ).) Re-entry is generally not permitted once you go outside. The overall atmosphere is dark and energetic, with spotlights on stage and party lighting over the crowd during gigs.
Nearby Amenities
College Street’s Little Italy offers plenty for concertgoers. For pre-show meals, the area has many restaurants and cafes. A few blocks east is Café Diplomatico (College & Clinton), a longstanding Italian coffee shop known for late-night snacks (thenandnowtoronto.com ). Nearby you’ll also find pizzerias (such as Pizza e Pazzi), Italian trattorias, barbecue and Polish restaurants, and Greek shawarma spots – all within a 5–10 minute walk. If you need a quick brunch or pizza before the show, places like Snakes & Lattes (a board-game café at Bathurst & College) or the Right Spot diner on Ossington can work. For after-show drinks, bars like Shox (at College & Lansdowne) or the Casual attitude right around provide late nightlife. Hotels are sparse directly on College, but downtown accommodations (around Yonge or King) are a short taxi ride away; some visitors also rent apartments or stay in the nearby boutique Holmes Hotel (on Bathurst just north of College). After dark, note that the TTC Blue Night bus network (routes 510 Bathurst, 506/511 Bathurst streetcars, 300 College) continues through the night if you stay late.
What Makes This Venue Special
The Mod Club’s character comes from its unique blend of history and atmosphere. Its vintage mod-theme décor (originally designed to evoke a 1960s British club) and narrow balcony create a time-capsule feel for each show. Importantly, it has hosted countless breakout performances. Big-name stars like The Weeknd, Post Malone and Drake all played here as emerging artists, and The Weeknd famously said of his 2015 Mod Club set, “MOD CLUB will live forever in my heart” (pitchfork.com ). This legacy – combined with the venue’s consistency – made it a rite of passage for Toronto musicians. Critics and fans alike consider it the ideal “nothing beats Mod Club for intimacy” spot. When it temporarily closed in 2020, a Global News article highlighted that the owners and community had shared “two decades of great memories” here (globalnews.ca ). Today, under new ownership and a Live Nation partnership (ca.billboard.com ), the Mod Club still aims to capture that old energy. Its historic architecture, club vibe and high-quality production make it a beloved local landmark.
Visitor Tips and Information
For first-time visitors: the venue is standing-room and can get crowded on busy nights, so wear comfortable shoes and arrive before doors open (often 30–60 minutes early) to line up at the front. Bring a government-issued ID (for age verification – most events are 19+ for alcohol service) and only a small clear bag – anything larger or opaque will be disallowed by security (www.themodclub.com ). Earplugs are a good idea if you prefer moderate volume, as live shows can be loud. The main entrance is at street level (no stairs) for easy access, and staff will assist guests with mobility needs (www.themodclub.com ). Keep your coat (there is a check) and valuables secure – pockets-only inside is common advice. Plan your transit back: if your show ends late, Toronto’s “Blue Night” buses (e.g. the 300 College or 510 Bathurst) run all night. Finally, know the venue’s rules: use of flash photography is discouraged, and smoking is only allowed outside. Once you purchase a ticket, note that it is non-transferable between shows, so check your tickets carefully for show dates. Above all, come ready to enjoy the music and cozy throwback vibe that the Mod Club is known for.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I buy tickets for a show at The Mod Club?
Tickets are sold online through official outlets (Live Nation, Ticketmaster, etc.) and at the venue. The Mod Club box office opens on show nights at the door time (cashless) and will sell any remaining tickets for that event (www.themodclub.com ). You can also pick up will-call tickets there with your ID and credit card (www.themodclub.com ).
What is the typical price range for Mod Club tickets?
Ticket prices vary widely depending on the artist and event. Smaller local shows might be in the low $20–30 range, while mid-level touring acts often run $40–60. Big-name headliners can be higher still. Occasionally there are balcony or table seat upgrades for a premium. Always check the official listing, as prices (and any service fees) are clearly posted when tickets go on sale.
What is the address of The Mod Club?
The Mod Club is located at 722 College Street, Toronto, ON (northwest corner of College and Crawford Street in Little Italy) (www.themodclub.com ). Be sure to arrive on the correct corner by checking the address and intersection on your map or GPS.
How do I get to The Mod Club using public transit?
The venue is a short walk from several TTC routes. You can take the Ossington bus (Route 63) or the 94A Wellesley bus along College Street. Streetcar 506 (Carlton) and 511 (Bathurst) both run a few blocks north on Bathurst Street. After getting off, walk west along College toward Crawford. (Bathurst Station on Line 2 is about a 12-minute walk south.) Plan your trip with the TTC Trip Planner for real-time schedules.
Is there parking available at or near The Mod Club?
Yes. The easiest paid option is the Metro supermarket lot directly across College Street from the club (meters apply) (www.themodclub.com ). There are also metered street parking spots on College and adjacent streets (pay attention to signs and time limits). Street parking can be limited on busy nights, so arrive early if you plan to drive. Door-side pickup/drop-off for rideshares or taxis is on College St right in front of the entrance.
What is the seating layout at The Mod Club?
The Mod Club is mainly general admission. The front area is an open-standing dance floor directly in front of the stage (en.wikipedia-on-ipfs.org ). Along the sides of the main floor there are a few tables and bench seats (some shows offer these for higher-ticket tiers). A wraparound balcony on the second level offers fixed seating with a clear view of the stage. Two video screens supplement views from the back. In short, people can stand on the floor or sit at a table or in the balcony (en.wikipedia-on-ipfs.org ).
How many people does The Mod Club hold?
The indoor capacity is roughly 600 patrons (en.wikipedia-on-ipfs.org ). This includes the floor and balcony areas combined. The relatively small size is intentional, giving it an intimate feel – it’s much smaller than the big arenas in Toronto.
What is the age restriction for entry?
Most events at The Mod Club are officially 19+ since it’s a licensed bar venue (Ontario legal drinking age). Occasionally an all-ages show may be held (especially early evening or matinees), but these are rare. Always check the event details on your ticket or the promoter’s page to confirm the age requirement before the show.
Can I bring a bag or backpack into The Mod Club?
Bag size and type are restricted for security. Only small clutches or clear bags (roughly 30×15×30 cm max) are allowed (www.themodclub.com ). Backpacks or large totes will be refused entry. This is explicitly mentioned on the venue’s policy page, so plan to carry minimal items in a compliant bag.
Is photography or video recording allowed inside?
Casual snapshots with your phone are generally fine (no flash please), but professional photography or video recording is not permitted during shows unless explicitly allowed. If you need to bring a camera (for media, etc.), you’ll usually need venue or artist permission. Always check the specific event policy in advance.
Are there accessible facilities at The Mod Club?
Yes. The main entrance is at street level with no steps, so wheelchairs and strollers can enter easily (www.themodclub.com ). There is a wheelchair-accessible, all-gender washroom on the main floor (www.themodclub.com ). If you can’t comfortably stand in the crowd for a GA show, talk to the staff or security on arrival – they can escort patrons needing assistance to a safe spot. For any special arrangements, you can contact the box office or venue in advance.
Is there a coat check at the club?
Yes. During colder months (or any time you need it), the club offers a coat check service near the entrance area (usually for a small fee). It’s a convenient way to store jackets, backpacks or other extra gear so you can enjoy the show unencumbered.
What food or drink is available inside?
There is a full bar inside The Mod Club. You can purchase beer, wine, spirits and cocktails from the bar counter. Drink prices are comparable to other nightclubs (many reviewers note they are “fairly priced” for a club (www.tripadvisor.com )). There is no kitchen for full meals, so plan to eat before or after the show if you want more than bar snacks or candy. (No outside food or drink is allowed.)
Do concerts at The Mod Club start on time?
Shows typically start around the time listed on your ticket. Doors usually open about an hour before the advertised start time. It’s wise to arrive early, especially for general-admission events, so you aren’t stuck in a line or far back from the stage. Artists may sometimes start a few minutes late, but generally the club runs on schedule once doors open.
What does the name “Mod Club” mean?
“Mod” is short for “modernist” and refers to the 1960s British Mod subculture (think The Who, mini-skirts, classic cars, etc.). The venue was originally themed around 60s mod culture. That’s why it has retro imagery and music from that era – it was literally a “mod club” night brought to life. The name stuck and became the formal venue name when it opened in 2002 (www.blogto.com ).
What was The Axis Club?
After the Mod Club closed in 2020, new owners relaunched the space in 2021 as “The Axis Club.” This was essentially the same venue under a new name and management. In 2024, Live Nation partnered with the owners to revert the name back to The Mod Club (nowtoronto.com ) (ca.billboard.com ), celebrating its legacy and returning its original branding.
What makes The Mod Club special compared to other venues?
The Mod Club’s charm comes from its history and atmosphere. It’s smaller than most Toronto clubs, so concerts feel very up-close. Its vintage 60s decor, great sound, and balcony seating give it a unique niche. Importantly, many well-known artists played here on tiny bills before fame (for example, Drake, Amy Winehouse, and Sia all performed here early on (ca.billboard.com )). Fans and musicians alike appreciate the club’s energy and “legendary” status – it’s seen as a rite-of-passage venue in the city.
Are children allowed at The Mod Club?
Because the venue is licensed, most concerts are 19+ and admit only adults. Events that are family- or teen-friendly are very rare (and would be explicitly advertised as all-ages). If you hope to bring a minor, check the event details carefully – but in general you should assume a night at the Mod Club is restricted to those 19 and over.
