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Memories of the business will live on, because of who played there and the memories it’s created, McLean said.

Photo by Michael Bell / Regina Leader-Post

“It’s legendary in my opinion,” he said, adding that while the business was progressive for Regina, it didn’t “fall victim” to being too ahead of its time.

“They took a really gentle, but also dogged approach to the whole model.”

While McLean feels sad about the Dodger closing, he’s excited to see what comes next for its staff, who plan to open a new business at a new location.

Photo by Michael Bell / Regina Leader-Post

“We’re hoping to be open in February,” said Kelly Cairns, who is one of five Dodger staff members who intend to operate the new business together.

The five have been managing the Dodger together since January, Cairns said, but rent in its 11th Avenue building has gone up, making the business no longer sustainable.

The name of the new business or its exact location isn’t something the group is ready to release, but Cairns did say they intend to transplant the Dodger’s library and host live music events.

Photo by Don Healy / Regina Leader-Post

However, the new business will be “a lot more food and drink focused,” she said, noting that the group plans to emphasize the skills of a new chef.

Despite being excited about her new venture, Cairns, who has been with the Dodger since the beginning, thinks closing up shop will be an emotional experience.

“That’s kind of why we just want to go out with a party and make it as happy as we can — just see everybody, have all your regulars come out in one night.”

“A lot of the musicians who’ve participated here are performing,” she said.

Around 10 performers, including McLean, are set to take the stage as the Dodger offers its swan song to the city.

bharder@postmedia.com

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