Local live music venues are integral to South Australia’s live music industry. With so many venues facing difficult trading conditions and possible closures, MusicSA is very concerned to see another iconic venue, The Crown & Anchor, facing potential threat in the face of an application for development.
As a UNESCO City of Music, cultural and music activities are a cornerstone of our city’s health, soul and livelihoods. A balance can be found between the changing landscape of our city and the preservation of our music heritage precincts and cultural ecosystem.
Now more than ever it is important for South Aussies to show support for live music venues. If you are feeling frustrated and concerned, we urge you to head to a local gig this long weekend, buy some beverages and artist merchandise and be a part of our live music economy!
If you are looking for ways to support The Crown and Anchor more directly, please consider reaching out directly to your local MP or South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas (premier@sa.gov.au) to have your say about the importance of this iconic music venue.
Photo credit: Nash Blight, taken in 2023 at the Crown & Anchor of local band Dorkz
Stay tuned for more information and from the Crown & Anchor and #SAVETHECRANKA team for ways to support the cause in the near future.
A full statement from The Crown & Anchor custodian, Tom Skipper, can be seen below:
“You may have seen the news that a development application has been lodged over our site, so I thought I should let you know where I stand,” the statement begins.
“I don’t own the Crown & Anchor – I am its latest custodian, a role I don’t take lightly. Since it was first licensed in 1853, generations of South Australians have been part of its history and we are determined to continue a tradition of cold beer, great friends and loud music.
“Our history is not just in our walls and floors. We are privileged to have had some of Australia’s best bands, including Tex Perkins and the Superjesus, grave our stage, and to have assisted in launching the careers of Bad//Dreems, the Grenadiers and so many more.
“We want to see Adelaide develop and grow, but not at the expense of live music and it is critical we preserve venues so the next generation of Australian musos can get their start.
“Nothing is set in stone at this stage and we will continue work to ensure the Crown and Anchor remains the uniquely Adelaide institution that we all love.” – Skip
