Copacabana to Close in NYC

The legendary Copacabana, the inspiration for Barry Manilow's smash single and a staple of Manhattan nightlife since World War II, is ready for its last dance. With construction of an extended subway line imminent, the club will close its doors Saturday night as its owner hunts for a new home.

"What are you going to do?" said John Juliano, taking a break from setting up shop.

"Like anything else in life, you're born and you die. We'll try to find another spot by the fall."

The three-floor space on West 34th Street, a replica of the original club where Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis and Dean Martin once ruled, is locking up shop after Latin superstars El Gran Combo play tonight. Owner Juliano, who bought the Copa with two partners in 1976, said he hoped to open a new club under the old name by October.

There are a number of possibilities for a new location, including a possible move to the Bronx.

"It would kill me," Juliano confessed, "but what are you going to do?"

The club's name and its palm tree theme will accompany Juliano wherever he ends up.

"Without a doubt," he said. "You have to keep it tropical."