[3][4] It remained derelict for several years until purchased by former footballer Anthony "Tony" Byrne, who converted the cinema into a theatre and music venue at a cost of roughly £250,000.

[3][4] At the time of closing, the upper theatre could seat 475, and the lower venue was in operation as a nightclub called "District 8".

[7][8] The venue hosted musical performances by The Cranberries, Oasis, Blur, Sinéad O'Connor,[9] Suede, The Beastie Boys, Rage Against the Machine,[10] Deadmau5, Perfume Genius,[11] and $uicideBoy$.

That Petrol Emotion played the Tivoli three times,[12] including their Irish farewell gig in 1994.

Recordings from that concert were included on the live album Final Flame (Fire, Detonation And Sublime Chaos).