Tresor in Dortmund has launched free parties to refocus on the underground

Tresor.West from Dortmund is calling for support and launching free “Community Nights” to refocus on the underground.

Tresor.West is offering free entry to its parties on Saturdays throughout January in Dortmund to return to its roots in the underground. 

The sister club of the legendary Berlin institution opened in 2019 within a historic factory building.

 Despite early success, on Friday, January 3, 2025, the team shared a post on Instagram highlighting the “bitter reality” faced by many similar organizations and clubs. 

In an effort to increase visitor numbers and emphasize commitment to club culture, the weekly Community Saturdays events will have free entry for the entire month, with the lineup kept secret until each event and a focus on local performers willing to play for reasonable fees.

“Clubbing should not be a privilege but must remain accessible,” Tresor.West explained in a statement.

 “Instead of focusing on headliners, we are investing in you, shining the spotlight on ambitious local DJs and collectives, and reaching out to renowned artists who meet us with fair fees.

” The initiative comes a week after the closure of the esteemed Berlin club Watergate, which a spokesperson confirmed was due to “rising costs and changes in club culture.” 

That action was the “only reasonable and responsible decision,” as the venue backed out of a 35-hour party featuring around 40 artists. Also in the city, Renate, which occupies a building owned by the same landlord, is expected to cease operations this year for similar reasons. However, the decade-old club intends to move to a new location.

[source]