On 2 November 2025, Spectrum by Phil Studio will host its final gig. In a series of heartfelt Instagram posts, the venue announced its impending closure, joining a growing list of creative spaces in Singapore being forced to shutter.
“We fought for over three years. We fought hard; we fought for the artists; we fought for the scene,” read one of the posts.
Their announcement follows the recent exits of The Projector and Enclave Bar, both of which cited increasingly hostile conditions for independent operators. The trend is clear: Singapore’s grassroots arts and music venues are struggling to survive in an ecosystem that is becoming less hospitable by the year.
A Vision That Connected People
Spectrum wasn’t just a venue. It was a haven for artists, musicians, and subcultures often marginalised in the mainstream. Under the banner of inclusivity, diversity, affordability, and simplicity, it played host to more than a thousand events, from local punk showcases and drag shows to international acts and music quizzes.
The Instagram posts detail what made Spectrum special: a high-quality setup with a 10-meter stage, full backline, LED screen, bar, and full support staff. Their mission was clear — to provide a safe space for expression across genres, identities, and disciplines.
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The Cost of Survival
But even passion can’t outpace rising costs. Spectrum cited a “very hostile environment,” including high operational costs, compliance burdens, regulatory red tape, and double standards as the primary reasons for closure.
It’s a familiar refrain. The Projector — beloved for its independent film screenings and community events — and Enclave Bar — a cornerstone for underground music — both shut down earlier this year, echoing similar concerns.
These venues offered more than just events. They created space for experimentation, resistance, and expression in a city where conformity often rules. Their closures signal a shrinking margin for such creativity.
What’s Next for Phil Studio?
Despite the shutdown, Phil Studio is not filing for bankruptcy — at least not yet. The team has promised to prioritise repayments to organisers and artists. They also outlined plans to donate equipment, offer free slots for remaining events, and explore flash sales.
As for the future, Phil Studio is keeping its options open. While there are no plans for a new venue “in this toxic environment,” they’ve hinted at mid-term goals like collaborating on events, supporting other artists, and even expanding overseas.
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A Call to Action
In their farewell, Phil Studio called on all stakeholders — artists, organisers, venue owners, and supporters — to share ideas and help shape what comes next.
The closure of Spectrum is not just the loss of a venue. It’s the loss of a cultural incubator, a community space, and a beacon for what Singapore’s independent arts scene could be.
And if the current trend continues, it raises an uncomfortable question: how much longer can indie spaces hold on?
