X Marks The Spot: The Projector Is Riding On A Fresh Wave Of Scene Success
Projector X: Riverside has played host to all sorts of pop-up parties in recent months (Credit: Courtesy of Revision Music)
To say the least, the future of The Projector definitely holds some promising projections. There’s no denying The Projector as one of Singapore’s stoic cultural bastions. Since its launch as an independent cinema in 2014, The Projector has shown that it’s wanted to carry more than just the passion of film on its plate.
From its Golden Mile Tower flagship address, The Projector became a hub for communities and subcultures to flourish, including those within the local music scene. Its past raves atop the fifth storey carpark and mosh-fests within Intermission Bar continue to be legendary, and it even morphed into a space that hosted everything from vinyl markets to drag shows. The influence of The Projector was never going to fit into the confines of one habitat, which brings us to its inevitable expansion.
By now, you must’ve heard of the palpable buzz surrounding Projector X. Launched in May 2021, the pop-up extension of The Projector first appeared at Riverside Point, taking over the abandoned premises of a Chinese disco. Its manifestation in the midst of the pandemic signified ripples of rejuvenation, creating cultural electricity when events were slapped with a shutdown. But ever since the restrictions of the pandemic began to abate, The Projector X has become a much-hyped locale that’s played host to the resurgence of events.
The Projector X quickly grew into somewhat of a pop-up ‘club’ that’s drawn the attention of several promoters and collectives. It’s turned into a secret techno lair for a collaboration between Midnight Shift and Modal. It’s attracted the African rhythms of Afrodisia. It’s sped up the tempo for the drum & bass antics of Kings of Bass. And it’s even hosted international talents like New York’s Kush Jones courtesy of Revision Music. The Riverside point venue has also adapted as a platform for live bands, with past pop-up gigs organised by North East Social Club. And it’s even become an inclusive space for the queer community, with parties from Vogue In Progress and Yum Yum Disco Dong.
Recently, The Projector revealed even bigger plans on the horizon. From late August this year, it will be launching the next phase of its Projector X initiative, taking over the historic premises of The Cathay at Handy Road, a national treasure that dates back to the 1930s. Called Projector X: Picturehouse, the pop-up residency – there’s been no announcement on how long this run will last yet – will feature more screenings in its 600-seater cinema room, a full bar and kitchen, and especially, more live events. It’s also announced an open call for creative collaborations and for furniture donations to rejig the space.
The Neon Room of Projector X: Riverside can fit both screenings and pop-up events (Credit: Courtesy of The Projector)
In the meantime, Projector X: Riverside will continue its limited run until the end of 2022. Grab a craft beer and soak in the Clarke Quay views. Watch an indie film in its Neon Room with personal headphones Silent Disco-style. And of course, swing by for a pop-up rave if you have the chance. You still have about half a year left before it packs up.
Projector X: Riverside, #04-13 Riverside Point, 30 Merchant Road, Singapore 058282. Visit its Instagram page for more information on the space.
