Fowlers Live, one of Adelaide‘s most vibrant and storied live music venues, will cease operations in December this year.
In a statement issued last night, the venue’s operators revealed that Arts SA has chosen not to extend the license to use the historic D And J Fowler Flour Factory on North Terrace as a hub for the city’s live music scene, and have instead chosen to utilise the space for “multi use” purposes.
The venue’s operators state they have been seeking an alternative space since Arts SA’s 2014 announcement they were considering new usages for the building, but have been unsuccessful in securing a new site.
“We would like to thank all the staff, bands, promoters, punters and all who have been a part of the Fowlers Live journey during the 15 years of us operating,” a spokesperson added.
The news has already sparked an outpouring of support on social media from punters who cherished the 500-capacity venue’s dedication to live music, especially the in city’s strong alternative, punk and metal music scenes.
During its tenure, Fowlers Live played host to a slew of massively influential international acts, including Converge, Dillinger Escape Plan, ISIS, and Propagandhi.
Burgeoning interstate acts also got a foot-up at the venue, which served as early stops for The Amity Affliction, Thy Art Is Murder, and stacks more.
The news follows the closure of the HQ Complex in 2017, leaving precious few venues in Adelaide capable of footing acts too big for bars and too small for the likes of Thebarton Theatre.
Go well, Fowlers.
