Struggle From Ipanema: The Orchard Towers Nightclub Goes Against The Odds To Stay Alive

Ipanema was supposed to participate in the proposed pilot scheme for nightclubs in Singapore, until the opportunity was pulled from under their feet (Credit: Ipanema; all images were taken before the Circuit Breaker)

The scourge of the pandemic has sullied the nature of nightclubs in Singapore. The lack of governmental compromise in reopening this vulnerable sector means they are gradually fading from existence, with no chance of resumption unless they drastically swerve into the pivot lane. Nightclubs play a vital role in the provision of escapism, shrouding guests in an ambience of hedonism-inclined indulgence with thematic décor, bar service and showy entertainment. Ticking all these boxes is Ipanema World Music Bar, a prominent establishment that’s been dealing out debaucherous nights since 1991 – that’s as old as Zouk – from its home base at the infamous Orchard Towers.

Ipanema has stood the test of time in Orchard Towers since 1991 (Credit: Ipanema)

If you’re familiar with the notoriety of that area, then you can imagine that just getting to Ipanema is half the adventure. Nestled within the hub of colourful characters and suspicious-looking venues, Ipanema is a hideout for pleasure-seekers. Priding itself on its cosmopolitan vision, the 7,000 sq ft space was inspired by the bustling beaches of Brazil and their free-spirited nature. Ipanema was built to reflect this passion for partying, establishing a global entertainment programme that incorporates DJ sets playing world music and live bands playing universally adored classics. For years, it’s summoned an undulating energy that brings together guests from all walks of life. But lately, this source of bacchanalia has been sapped by the void of the pandemic.

Until the nightlife restrictions clear, the once-vibrant halls of Ipanema will remain empty (Credit: Ipanema)

The uphill battle of Ipanema against the nightlife restrictions was actually an admirable one. To refresh your memory, the authorities attempted to introduce a pilot scheme for nightclubs, except it was received negatively by several establishments due to its extreme demands. Ipanema, however, accomplished what many deemed impossible. Ipanema not only took up the daunting challenge – which came with a bevy of additional costs and installation of facilities – but even won the green light from the government to proceed, being just one out of two candidates granted permission to reopen. And like a bat out of hell, the authorities changed their mind on 19 January 2021, declaring that they were postponing the pilot scheme with no scheduled date.

Today, Ipanema remains trapped in a precarious position. Due to its location – Orchard Towers has been labelled a hotspot by the government – Ipanema cannot pivot into a F&B establishment without suffering consequences. What does this mean exactly for Ipanema? And how hard did Ipanema have to fight to win the authorities’ permission to reopen; a feat many other establishments chose not to tackle? Bryan Ong, the managing director of Strumm’s Holding which currently represents Ipanema, reveals the struggle, the compromise, and what Ipanema World Music Bar means for the Singaporean nightlife scene.

Ipanema attracts characters from all walks of life (Credit: Ipanema)

Going back to the beginning, what inspired the team to launch Ipanema? Why bring the vibe of Rio to Singapore?

The founder of Ipanema World Music Bar, Mr. Murray Ong, was a ship engineer back in the day. He enjoyed exploring the world and was fortunate to be able to travel the world with his company. One of the places he loved travelling was South America. He was in awe at how Latin bars and Latinos were exuding so much vibrant energy; the way they danced and partied with so much vigour till the early morning. One of the places that caught his attention was Ipanema Beach, Rio De Janeiro. Ever since, he fondly remembered the great party vibes of the beach and Latin America. After he retired from his long travels, he passionately took two years to conceptualise and build the night club so that he could share the high-energy vibes with everyone in Singapore. The name Ipanema World Music Bar was sealed in his mind when his friend sang the song “The Girl from Ipanema”, whilst he was at a bar brainstorming the name for his international club concept.

Guests can always expect an evening of entertainment within (Credit: Ipanema)

Can you share a bit more about the venue’s legacy in the nightlife industry?

Orchard Towers is one of the first few multi-complex buildings constructed along Orchard Road since 1975. At one point of time, the building housed the best live entertainment club in Singapore called Top Ten. It brought international performances from all over the world and attracted high-spending, well-dressed patrons to the venue.

Ipanema is known for its energetic live bands (Credit: Ipanema)

For anyone who’s never set foot in Ipanema before, can you describe the vibe of a night out in this storied world music bar?

The thought of going to Orchard Towers always excites people for many reasons. It has become a little adventure that many who dare to travel would fall in love with, due to its vibrant energy, variety of watering holes and casual restaurants. The first thing you will notice in Ipanema is the well-trained team of friendly security officers and speedy cashiers entering the guest drink orders. The low booming bass and sweet scent of Ipanema’s signature aroma (a fine blend of expensive lady’s perfume, teak wood, etc) would entice your sense of smell and hearing in preparation for an unforgettable night.

Moving through the entrance, you will push the iconic swinging cowboy doors to enter and marvel at the crowd casually socialising with each other along with the upbeat music. Walking past the smoking room and down the steps would allow you to see beautiful ladies dancing on the podium. Every so often, you would see them teasing the crowd. Once you make it through the crowd, you finally arrive at what Ipanema World Music Bar has always been well known for, the amazing high-energy international band and DJ that was painstakingly curated by Mr. Murray Ong and team.

“Ipanema has always positioned itself to be an unpretentious club with complete amenities for anyone who wants to party till the sun rises".” (Credit: Ipanema)

Since its launch in 1991, has Ipanema been run by more or less the same management or the same owners?

Same owner but different team since 1998. Around 20 per cent of the team has been around for more than eight years.

What makes Ipanema stand out from other live music venues on the island? And what gives the bar its worldly appeal?

Ipanema has always positioned itself to be an unpretentious club with complete amenities for anyone who wants to party till the sun rises. It has high-energy live music performances; affordable food and drinks; DJs spinning the ’70s, ’80s and occasionally the latest hits; smoking room; dance floor and podium filled with beautiful dancers; professionally trained security officers; friendly customer-centric service crew; toilet with personal concierge service; pool table with its own friendly community; and sports bar showcasing popular soccer matches. I believe Ipanema’s worldly appeal stems from opening our doors to everyone from all over the world and playing international music. We have been grateful to have international friends who constantly revisit us whenever they are in Singapore.

“We had guests who were happy that the safety measures were strict and that they would bring a sense of safety whilst partying and dancing at Ipanema.” (Credit: Ipanema)

So what type of crowd would you say Ipanema attracts? Is the venue for everyone?

Ipanema attracts all kinds of guests aged between 30 and 60. Around 60 per cent of our crowd are tourist from all parts of the world. Everyone comes together to have a great time to party, socialise and understand Singapore’s culture a little better. Most importantly, Ipanema World Music bar is a community of folks who have the same common taste in entertainment and lifestyle. It’s not a place for everyone, but loved by those who visit it regularly.

How did Ipanema get ready for its participation in the pilot scheme for nightclubs? With the numerous restrictions and limitations of the scheme, was this a difficult mountain to climb?

The team excitedly planned and answered a list of questions the government had for us. Upon confirmation that we were selected as participant of the pilot programme, we went out to purchase the necessary items (CCTVs, queue poles, stock, sanitisation equipment, etc) to begin operations. We understood why those restrictions were required. However, it was a challenge to convince our guests to visit our club when they had to take an Antigen Rapid Test (ART). Conversely, we had guests who were happy that the safety measures were strict and that they would bring a sense of safety whilst partying and dancing at Ipanema.

Ipanema made sure it adhered to all safety measures before reopening safely (Credit: Ipanema)

Did you stay attuned to the trends and developments within the nightlife industry before making the decision to participate?

Yes, we did take note of the developments happening around the world. We drew reference on how to create a fun and safe place for our patrons to enjoy.

The postponement of the pilot scheme has affected the livelihoods of Ipanema’s loyal staff (Credit: Ipanema)

Unfortunately, Ipanema couldn’t reopen due to the postponement of the pilot scheme. What does this mean for Ipanema? And will Ipanema see itself pivoting into the F&B sector instead?

It was heart-breaking to hear that the pilot programme had been postponed to an unforeseen date. We understood the concerns of the government, but it was hard on my team who left their secure temporary jobs to return to work in Ipanema. Sadly, they were left stranded and had a difficult time finding another job. We don’t foresee pivoting into the F&B sector anytime soon. Being in Orchard Towers has its own challenges. We have been labelled as a hotspot area by the authorities, which has disallowed all operators from getting a temporary conversion license. This means that Ipanema World Music Bar will not be allowed to operate as a nightclub in the future if we decide to pivot into a restaurant or snack bar. It would be devastating to us, our patrons, and the nightlife industry if a 23-year-old institution were to close. We believe we have been providing a rich and unique experience for tourists and Singaporeans.

“The nightlife industry would require the government’s assistance to rejuvenate and remarket Singapore as an entertainment hub again once the world begins reopening its borders.” (Credit: Ipanema)

Do you wish for more clarity from the authorities regarding the reopening of the nightlife industry? What further assistance would be desired?

In my opinion, I do wish the authorities would give the nightlife industry the chance to reopen. The operating hours of the business was essential for Singaporeans who needed to take up a second job to feed their families. Additionally, the nightlife entertainment industry allowed Singaporeans to decompress after a stressful day. The nightlife industry would require the government’s assistance to rejuvenate and remarket Singapore as an entertainment hub again once the world begins reopening its borders.

Ipanema would not be the same without its community of patrons (Credit: Ipanema)

And for now, what would you like to say to your loyal Ipanema community?

We wish to say to all our loyal Ipanema patrons that we love and miss them terribly. We hope you and your family have been safe and well. We look forward to everyone returning to party in their home away from home. Please join our Ipanema World Music Bar Telegram community to stay tuned to the latest news and reminisce the good old days together.

Ipanema World Music Bar, #12-01 YSY Building, 139 Cecil Street, Singapore 069539. Follow its official website for more information.