We've already heard of Hard Rock Hotels, the hospital offshoot of the famous Hard Rock Café, and Virgin Hotels, the hotel arm of Richard Branson's media group. Now Universal Music is getting in on the act with its UMusic Hotels and its first address in Madrid. The location for its debut was not chosen at random, and corresponds to the tone that the music label wants to give to its hotel concept: creative and inspired places.
Located between the Puerta del Sol and the Plaça Jacinto Benavente, UMusic Madrid includes the Albeniz Theatre, an 898-seat theatre that opened in 1945 and later became a cinema, closing its doors at the end of 2008. This listed building, which dates back to 1762, has been completely refurbished to house a five-star hotel with 130 roomsUniversal Music Spain is also planning to revitalise the theatre adjoining the lobby with a line-up of big names in entertainment. Starting with Antonio Banderaswho directed and will play the lead role in the musical "Company" from 17 November until 14 February 2023.
But staying at the UMusic Madrid is not the only way for business travellers to enjoy the comedian's talent in situ. The hotel has everything you need for a top-of-the-range stay, including an outdoor swimming pool and a fitness room. a rooftop bar, restaurant and meeting rooms. " This opening has an important strategic value for the chain. Not only is it our first establishment in Europe, but the new hotel is housed in a historic building that combines hospitality and entertainment." said Robert Lavia, CEO of UMusic Hotels.
Universal Music's expansion into the hotel sector comes as no surprise, as it has been in the pipeline since October 2020. At that time, the world leader in music entertainment announced the creation of a joint venture with investor Dakia U-Ventures to the development of a worldwide collection hotels based on an artistic experience. Although the Madrid project was not originally unveiled, three establishments were announced in the United States in Atlanta, Orlando and Biloxi, Mississippi, all of which will include attractive entertainment venues. " The UMusic hotels will both showcase the rich musical heritage of the cities and offer new opportunities for artists to reach fans in an immersive wayinnovative and authentic" said Bruce Resnikoff, Chairman and CEO of Universal Music Enterprises.
