Times are certainly changing in San Diego’s bar and club scene. One nightclub in particular, which has been a part of the local scene off and on since 1997, is preparing to “begin a new era” in San Diego nightlife.

Club Montage, located at 2028 Hancock St., has big plans for the venue, which is one of the largest night club spaces in San Diego. With three levels, a rooftop bar and restaurant with city and bay views, and one of the best sound and lighting systems in town, Montage has the potential to rule San Diego’s nightlife. When Montage first opened in 1997, the club experienced tremendous success, as “circuit boys” and clubgoers packed the dance floors night after night. In 2005, Montage closed abruptly after the sudden death of popular owner and community leader John McCusker. To the surprise of the community, the club reopened a year later under the ownership of Chris Braga and Mark McDonough with a fresh look.

After a series of setbacks with the City of San Diego, the club closed for a couple of months earlier this year. The club at 2028 Hancock St. reopened in late April and has continued to move forward. Braga is now the sole owner of the club.

When the club reopened in April, many weren’t even sure what it was called. In many of my columns, I referred to the club as Montage, as well as what was thought to be the new name, 2028. In one column, I wasn’t exactly sure how to list the name of the club, so I called it “the club housed at 2028 Hancock St.” I have been told by Braga that the legal title is currently Club Montage, but a new name is on the way. Details will be announced soon.

Montage, which long hosted Saturday nights “for the boys,” has recently introduced a new, exciting Sunday night that will cater to the gay male crowd, and have something for everyone else.

Montage will host the “Unofficial Pride Closing Party” on Sunday, July 20 starting at 9:30 p.m. The party will go all night, until at least 4 a.m. If the crowds are still dancing, the music may go on until 6 a.m. DJ Shane Stiel will spin in the main room, with DJ lil’ Chris spinning mashups and popular remixes in the club’s Atlantis Room. There will be a special performance by internationally known performance artist Flava. Braga noted that it is “unfortunate” that other Pride parties are so expensive, and wants to make sure that Montage’s Pride party is not only the best in town, but the most affordable. Those who get their hands on a VIP pass will get free admission before midnight, and pay $10 after midnight. Cover without a VIP pass is still a deal at $15. Most of our local clubs and bars charge high cover charges during Pride weekend, not to mention the circuit parties which range from $25-$100. This really is quite a deal for such a big night!

Sunday nights “for the boys” at Montage will start out as a monthly promotion with different themes and world class DJs, with hopes to become weekly. The evening will eventually morph into an “industry” type night catering to everyone, especially those work in the bar industry. The popular Military Madness parties hosted by Steve Peña will also be rolled into Montage’s Sunday night line-up.

Right now, Montage has teamed up with GIANT Productions to host the Friday events at the club, and will continue to work with this promoter. GIANT has brought in huge performers to Montage during the last couple of months, including internationally known DJ Armin VanBuren. Saturdays are also a popular night, which will soon be done in conjunction with San Diego radio station Channel 93.3. This night won’t be specifically targeted to the gay community, because it is intended to appeal to everyone.

Braga made it clear that he and his club “will continue to support the gay community and the organizations that serve it.” In the past Braga has donated to and hosted fund-raisers for dozens of community organizations, including The Center, The Youth Housing Project, Stepping Stone and the Alano Club. Braga believes in the work these organizations do and wants to give back to the community that has helped his business grow.

As you make your plans for the huge party that Pride is, don’t forget to support what should be the best party of the weekend at Club Montage. Reacquaint yourself with this fabulous club, and keep coming back to see the exciting changes it has in store!

More information is available at www.ClubMontage.com. Happy Pride!