Electronic music fans in Chicago are getting a new venue known as Radius, set to open March 2020 in an old steel factory in the Pilsen neighborhood.
Concertgoers from Chicago would all agree that the area has long been in need of a new venue. Their wish has finally been granted with today’s announcement that Radius Chicago, an independently owned and operated venue, is set to open next year. Located in the Pilsen neighborhood, the multipurpose space will hold 2,500 to 3,800 people.
The owner and operator of Radius Chicago, Nick Karounos, has been heavily involved in the music scene for decades. He’s played essential roles in the history of other Chicago venues including Concord Music Hall, Prysm Nightclub, and The MID.
The MID closed earlier this year due to rapid development in the surrounding neighborhood. On the other side of town, Congress Theater shut its doors in 2013 after throwing countless classic EDM nights in the genre’s early years. Neither of these venues have been appropriately replaced since their closing.
That’s where Radius Chicago comes in; Karounos says the project has been four years in the making.
Radius will combine some of the best elements from all of these locations to bring us a one-of-a-kind music-focused venue on the city’s near south side. It will boast an impressive sound system, a mezzanine level to host VIP accomodations, a spacious outdoor smoking section, and nine full-service bars with craft beers and specialized cocktails.
The venue’s proximity to the city and music-first acoustics will set it apart. Karounos sees the 4,800 capacity Live Nation-owned Aragon Ballroom as his main competition. While Aragon is a retrofitted theater, Radius has state-of-the-art equipment specifically built for hosting large scale concerts.
In addition to the music venue, Radius will also include Cermak Hall. This space will have its own entrance, bar, and additional stage, and can be used as a pre and post-event area for attendees to enjoy.
The initial lineup of shows at Radius Chicago brings Dillon Francis, Carl Cox, and Tchami.
Dillon Francis will be kicking off the festivities on February 29, while the following weekend legendary techno artist Carl Cox will take the stage. Tchami is then scheduled to perform at Radius on March 13. While there aren’t other electronic events announced beyond then, the rest of the lineup is just as exciting with a variety of other concerts like Lil Wayne and Killswitch Engage. Tickets for all shows go on sale Friday, December 13 at 12PM CST.
With top of the line equipment and a convenient location, we can’t wait to check out this new artistic, music-focused space in the new year. The independently owned venue is sure to attract some of your favorite artists, so keep an eye out for more event announcements coming soon!
