Melkweg

Melkweg occupies a former milk factory on Lijnbaansgracht in Binnenstad, close to Leidseplein in central Amsterdam. It opened in 1970 as a youth cultural project in an unused factory building. Originally constructed as a sugar factory, the site later served as a milk depot. From 1973, the venue operated throughout the year as a cultural centre, with programmes spanning punk, grunge and hip-hop.

Its ground level contains two performance rooms, a gallery and a restaurant, while smaller spaces, including two theatres, are upstairs. The Max accommodates 1,500 people, and the Oude Zaal holds 700. The OZ can hold up to 650, depending on its configuration; the UP accommodates 150 seated or 250 standing. In 2007, The Max was extended and fitted with a Martin Audio sound system. Large theatre productions use the Rabozaal on selected nights each year; the room began operating in 2009. Other facilities include a cinema with 85 seats and an exhibition space.

Concerts, club events, films and exhibitions form part of Melkweg’s programme. Music programmer Frans Goossens joined the organisation in 1971 and later presented non-Western music and concerts, as well as festivals for emerging artists. The venue’s Milkyway Cassettes label began issuing live recordings in 1982. Liquicity has run events at Melkweg, where Gibbo has performed.