Printworks, a former newspaper printing factory converted into a multifunctional event space has aided in turning the London clubbing scene into that of what Ibiza is famous for – super clubs with outstanding line-ups. The industrial architecture of the building and the top-of-the-line sound and lighting systems created an immersive environment that enhanced the experience tailored for our scene.
Photo Credit: Jake Philip Davis
The famous venue solidified its status within our industry through its mammoth events over the 6 years. From big-league artists including Jeff Mills, Helena Hauff, Charlotte de Witte, Solomun, Patrick Topping, Marco Carola, The Martinez Brothers, and many more… I can speak for the rest of London when I say we weren’t anticipating the club would ever close, with it being such a symbol in our city. But, all things must come to an end it seems, and we were struck with the miserable news that the venue would be closing due to the leasing agreement ending. With this, we were lucky enough to be served a ridiculous and unforgettable closing party over the 4-day May long weekend.
From Friday through Monday, we were dealt a whopping line-up featuring 75+ artists throughout the 2 stages. In the largest of the two, The Press Halls, we had the pleasure of witnessing distinguished artists such as Peggy Gou, Dixon, DJ Koze, and Folamour. The crowd roared with the booming from the speakers with phones in hand capturing the moments and tracks played in the building’s send-off. The visuals displayed on the giant screens behind the stage were stunning and complemented the music perfectly, creating an all-encompassing sensory experience that was impossible to ignore.
Joyce Muniz and Carina Lawrence kicked off the melodic journey at Printworks on the second day of the venue’s farewell event series this past Saturday. Both artists delivered excellent opening sets that set the tone for the day and got the crowd excited for the acts to follow. The lighting and visuals were also impressive, with lasers, smoke, and projections creating a surreal and immersive experience.
The Aussie-born, Grammy-nominated producer and Cassian continued to fill up the fast-growing mood with his superb selections, passing it onto a live session from Stephan Bodzin. The energy in the main area was amazing as the crowd filled up to watch the legend create a great atmosphere. Carlita, the Turkish-born DJ, didn’t disappoint either, keeping the momentum going with her excellent track selection.
Meanwhile, the Inkwells area was filled with joy during the sets of Antares and UK’s Nick Castle, founder of Labyrinth Records. Following that, Anii, who was born in Poland, played an energetic set that helped to build a dynamic journey for the attendees. Francesca Lombardo also impressed the crowd with her superb blend of music. DJ Ivory kept the excitement level high on the stage, before passing the closing duties to Jimi Jules.
Back in the Press Halls, the closing party continued to impress the ravers with yet another live show. NTO’s spectacular act had the crowd energized and excited for what was to come next. Italian duo Mind Against kept the momentum going with their melodic and atmospheric sound that blends techno, house, and electronica. Thereafter, it was Adriatique’s turn, who over the years gained a large following in the electronic dance music scene. Their set was well-received by the crowd, who danced along to their infectious beats. The Swiss duo’s performance at Printworks was definitely one of the highlights of the event and demonstrated why they are considered to be one of the biggest names in the melodic techno scene.
Finally, CamelPhat, the British DJ and production team consisting of Dave Whelan and Mike Di Scala, culminated the show. They played a high-energy set, mixing their own hits with other popular tracks from the electronic dance music scene. The crowd was fully engaged, dancing and singing along to every beat. The duo’s seamless mixing and use of effects created a dynamic atmosphere that kept the crowd moving throughout their entire set. Their choice to end with Bicep’s ‘Glue’ provided the perfect finale, allowing the audience to come down gently and bask in the euphoric energy of the event. It also might have given out the clue of the very special guest for Printworks’ final day on Monday.
It was, in fact, Bicep who took to the stage on the final day of Printworks, as the energy in the room surged, and the crowd erupted into cheers. The couple played a mix of their own hits and tracks from other artists, which kept the crowd on their toes throughout the set.
The Inkwells, the smaller room has a different vibe entirely, but no less impressive. The area features exposed pipework, low ceilings, and colonnades of beaten concrete pillars creating a stripped-back, intimate atmosphere that contrasts perfectly the larger halls located above. The space welcomed artists such as Shrelles & I.Jorden, Prospa (DJ set), Mella Dee, and Jennifer Loveless among others. The space echoed a new generation of high-speed ravers who were moving to jungle, drum n bass, footwork, and juke. The room was packed and full of energy throughout the 10 sets.
Overall, the Monday closing party at Printworks with Bicep as the special guest was a night to remember. The venue, the music, and the atmosphere combined to create an unforgettable experience for all those in attendance. It was the perfect way to end the weekend and start the new week.
According to reports, Printworks London has submitted a planning application to Southwark Council for a new venue in Canada Water, East London, with an expected opening date in 2026. The proposed venue, called The Institute of Light, would reportedly feature a cinema, a restaurant, and several event spaces. The plans for the new venue were said to be inspired by the success of Printworks London’s existing venue, which has become one of the city’s most popular event spaces for electronic music events and other cultural events.
If the plans for the new venue go ahead, it is likely that it will continue to attract world-renowned artists and performers, cementing Printworks London’s reputation as one of the UK’s most exciting and innovative cultural institutions. However, it is important to note that plans and timelines can change, and any updates on this matter should be taken from official sources.
We’ll wait till 2026 and keep the memories that Printworks London brough to us through all these years.
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