Aurora, a “mixed use” bar, lounge, and venue in downtown Providence, announced on Friday (August 4) that it will be closing permanently at the end of October. Located at 276 Westminster St. in the downtown section of the city, the venue opened in 2014 has since aimed to create an inclusive environment with shows that directly benefit the community and give guests a creative space.
Events at Aurora have ranged from “Vinyl Lounge” nights, hosted by local record store Analog Underground, to joint shows from local bands, LGBTQ+ nights, and $1 bingo.
The venue posted the following message to their Facebook page on Friday:
“Dear Aurora Family and Friends,
We are reaching out to share some news: Aurora will be closing its doors as of the end of October. This wonderful space that has previously housed The Black Rep and Roots Cafe has under Aurora’s tenure been a vibrant venue for creative expression and community interactions. It’s provided a destination for live music, DJ’s, up and coming music producers, hip hop, rock n roll, salsa and Latin dance, jazz, film screenings, analytical discussions and panels, a bona fide independent theater company, community organizations, delicious craft cocktails, and even the occasional wedding!
We’ve seen Aurora flourish over these past three and a half years because of those who came to share their experiences and talents in the space. We would like to thank all of our incredible patrons, performers and staff for the great energy that they brought into this space. We plan to celebrate each remaining day with our programming partners, friends and family.
Come see us! See a show! Have a drink! Play a show! Dance the night away!
Yours truly,
The Aurora Family
xoxo”
Some of the events on the August calendar include Rhode Island International Film Festival screenings, a Necronomicon Kick-Off Party, and an X-rated Family Feud night. Bat House makes an appearance on September 8 for Consider Yourself’s album release show, joined by OroborO of Western Massachusetts and Los Waves.
Before opening as Aurora three years ago, 276 Westminster St. in Providence was home to The Roots Cafe, and before that The Providence Black Repertory Company.
Featured photo via Aurora’s Facebook page.