May 9, 2016 · Team HG
The event venue EMG is making a comeback, this time at a different location: the Suikerunie site in Groningen. The foundation aims to provide a stage for various musicians, bands, and genres, and is introducing its own restaurant and sustainable farm garden.
On the outskirts of Groningen, in the monumental grain silo at Eemskanaal 48, established itself until November 1, 2015 EMG FactorsUntil a fire broke out, which marked the end of activities and events in the building. The building is owned by the Municipality of Groningen and has since been sold to a project developer who plans to build studios and office spaces and provide room for small-scale hospitality businesses.
The new location
The new location on the Suikerunie site is intended to have the same atmosphere as the site along the Eems Canal, reports the Dagblad van het Noorden. The idea is to develop an industrial look and build sustainably. EMG wants to collaborate with local businesses, such as Groningen brewers, to promote regional beers. The restaurant will serve raw, high-quality food and fine bottles, Chris Garrit mentions in the DvhN. The garden is intended to become a place of relaxation with the character of an urban farm; beehives would be a nice addition, and ideally, they would also like to raise two cows.
Stage
Musically, blues, jazz, and 1950s Rock ’n Roll enthusiasts will be particularly welcome. The venue is intended to serve as an open mic for urban bands and groups that, for example, cannot find a spot at Vera or Simplon. According to Alieke Rademaker of EMG, the organization is primarily targeting people over 25, the age group above students. Additionally, EMG has already partnered with a Rock ’n Roll dance school, which promises to be a swinging event. Unlike fellow venues Paradigm and Psy-Fi in the same neighborhood, no electronic sounds will be heard here.
Negotiations
It should have been clear as early as December 2015 what would happen to the old building on the Eems Canal. However, according to Garrit, the contract regarding the location has still not been terminated. Negotiations are still ongoing, but they are progressing slower than expected due to the building's monumental heritage. Nevertheless, the municipality states that the matter will be resolved shortly.
EMG hopes to open at the Suikerunie site in the summer of 2017. Prior to this, the foundation will launch a crowdfunding campaign to financially realize its many ideas and plans.
Photo: Eems Canal location – Facebook EMG Faktors
