Image credit: Denazen.
Adelaide’s iconic live music venue, Enigma Bar, has announced that it will close its doors after 24 years of serving as a vibrant hub for music and community gatherings in the heart of Hindley Street. The decision, described as ‘difficult’ and ‘filled with mixed emotions’, is a result of rising operational costs, including rent, electricity and insurance, and the complexities of securing diverse musical acts, whether local, interstate or international.
Since its opening, Enigma Bar has been a cornerstone of the Adelaide live music scene, offering a unique experience for music lovers. Known for its eclectic mix of performances and events, the venue has hosted hundreds of bands and DJs, catering to tens of thousands of patrons over the years. Its diverse offerings ranged from electric nights in Bar 3 to a tequila bar and a popular day club on Sunday mornings.
It was also recognised as Adelaide’s first venue to offer free internet access, which added to its appeal and uniqueness, and was known for its unique beer garden and grass-roots stage that brought a community closer to their favourite artists and performers from both Australia and overseas.
The venue was celebrated for its welcoming ethos, embracing people from all walks of life, regardless of appearance, style, or music preference. This inclusive approach created an environment where diverse communities could gather, feel safe, and enjoy a wide range of music genres, resulting in a special place for all those who attended.
The closure of Enigma Bar is a significant loss to the Adelaide live music landscape. The venue’s commitment to providing a space for local and international artists has nurtured the city’s cultural scene.
As a final farewell, Enigma Bar invites the community to join them for a last celebration this Friday 17th of November. Starting at 8:00 pm and kickin’ on until the ‘last drop is poured’, the event promises to be a memorable evening where guests can share their stories and memories of the venue in one last send-off as everyone raises a toast.
The owners have expressed their gratitude to the community for their support over the years, emphasising that the journey of Enigma Bar would not have been possible without them.
The closure of Enigma Bar marks the end of an era for Adelaide’s live music and cultural scene. However, the venue’s legacy, with its commitment to diversity, inclusivity, and the promotion of live music, will continue to inspire the community for years to come.
What: Enigma Bar
Where: 173 Hindley St, Adelaide, SA 5000.
When: Friday, November 17th, from 8 pm-late.
For more info, click here.
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