Duran Duran Opens Rehearsal Shows

For the first time in Duran Duran’s decades-long history, the band is opening its U.K. rehearsal shows to the public, giving fans a chance to catch their faves in small, intimate venues minus the fancy production.

Photo: Rod Tanaka / TanakaPhoto.net

Ogden Theatre, Denver, Colo.

Taking place in jolly ol’ England, the rehearsal gigs are scheduled for Bournemouth’s Old Fire Station Sept. 1; Cambridge at The Junction Sept. 8; Bristol at the Trinity Centre Sept. 9; and the O2 Academy Oxford Sept. 10.

Yes, those are somewhat smaller venues than the band and their fans are accustomed to. That’s why each venue is taking steps to increase capacity for the rehearsal gigs.

Forced to postpone their “All You Need Is Now” world tour earlier this year when singer Simon Le Bon experienced vocal problems, the band says their frontman has recovered from his ailment and is ready to tackle the road once again.

“I am absolutely thrilled to be getting back on the road and touring again after my recent vocal injury,” Le Bon said in a statement. “It’s been an incredibly tough time and extremely frustrating, but after receiving treatment I have made gradual improvements each week in recovering the upper part of my range. I am truly grateful for the incredible support of our fans, the many well wishes and their patience in what has been a difficult time for us all as a band.”

Photo: Jason Moore

"Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival," Empire Polo Club, Indio, Calif.

The band resumes its tour in Everett, Wash., at the Comcast Arena Sept. 23 and launches its postponed U.K. run at The Brighton Centre Nov. 30.

Ticket prices for the rehearsal shows begin at £28.50 (approx. $46.65 U.S.) and go on sale Aug. 25. Visit DuranDuran.com for more information.