From Dream to Dominance: Jemma Evans & Amanda Gear Shape the Future of the Empress Ballroom
Mexborough, South Yorkshire – The historic Empress Ballroom, a cherished landmark in Mexborough, is stepping into a dazzling new era as local entrepreneurs Jemma Evans and Amanda Gear take the helm under a new five-year lease. Once a grand venue of yesteryear, the ballroom was given a spectacular rebirth in 2022, thanks to the vision and investment of Jason Mace, CEO of Gala Tent and owner of the Empress Building. Now, with an exciting new partnership and long-term plans in place, the venue is set to flourish like never before.
The Empress Ballroom’s journey from uncertainty to thriving entertainment hub is nothing short of inspiring. When Jemma Evans first reached out to Jason Mace in early 2022, she wasn’t seeking ownership—just an opportunity to manage the venue and breathe new life into it. At the time, Mace had no plans to fully restore the ballroom, instead intending to hire it out for external event organisers. However, Jemma’s unwavering passion and entrepreneurial spirit convinced him to take a leap of faith. The result? A staggering £250,000 investment that saw the venue completely transformed, boasting state-of-the-art lighting, a VIP area, a new bar, a fully refurbished kitchen, and even solar energy.
Two years on, Jemma’s vision has been rewarded with success, drawing in visitors for weddings, concerts, and unforgettable nights out. But the story doesn’t end there. In 2024, she was approached by Amanda Gear, a talented wedding decor and event specialist known for her flair in transforming spaces into breathtaking settings for celebrations. Recognising their shared vision and complementary skills, the two joined forces to take the Empress Ballroom to new heights.
“Our goal is to make the Empress Ballroom the heart of Mexborough’s entertainment scene. Whether it’s a wedding, a birthday, or a concert, we want to create experiences that people will cherish forever,” said Jemma Evans. “Amanda and I both believe in the magic of this venue, and we’re excited to shape its future together.”
Already, the Empress Ballroom is booked for weddings and private events through to 2027, proving that its revival has struck a chord with the community. The venue remains home to the town’s original vintage sprung dance floor, a feature that has seen countless couples waltz, sway, and celebrate over the decades.
“The beauty of the Empress is its ability to transform,” added Amanda Gear. “From a romantic wedding reception to a high-energy concert, this space offers something truly special. I’m thrilled to be working alongside Jemma to make every event extraordinary.”
The impact of the Empress Ballroom’s success extends beyond the dance floor. Seeing the growing demand for high-quality entertainment and hospitality in Mexborough, Jason Mace has committed an additional £400,000 to developing 12 holiday let suites, catering to visitors travelling from across the country to experience the venue’s star-studded events. From legendary celebrities like Brian Blessed and Kevin Keegan to thrilling boxing and wrestling nights, the Empress Ballroom is rapidly becoming a destination in its own right.
“The Empress started as a dream, and now it’s a powerhouse of entertainment and hospitality,” said Jason Mace, CEO of Gala Tent and owner of the Empress Building. “Jemma’s dedication has taken this venue to a whole new level. I have no doubt that under her new leadership, the Empress Ballroom will continue to thrive and make history.”
Adding to the Empress Building’s all-encompassing appeal, visitors can enjoy dining at the Goa Spice Indian restaurant, work out at the Body Builders’ Gym, or plan their perfect event with world-class facilities. Whether it’s a wedding, a live concert, a party, or a weekend getaway, the Empress Building in Mexborough has something for everyone.
With two passionate entrepreneurs at the helm and an ever-growing reputation, the Empress Ballroom is poised for an exciting future, ensuring that Mexborough’s palace of dancing continues to shine for generations to come.