Must Kast theatre and Möku bar to leave Genialistide club
Monday 14th September 2026 on 20:30 in
Estonia
The Must Kast theatre and Möku bar will leave Tartu’s Genialistide club building because of uncertainty over the venue’s future, ERR reported. Genialistide club said several potential new operators have already expressed interest in moving in.
The club’s neighbours raised noise concerns nearly a year and a half ago. Although the club has taken steps to reduce the noise, the measures have so far not been sufficient for the city to pay nearly 45,000 euros in programme support. As a result, the club has operated without financial backing this year.
Must Kast’s director, Merilyn Elge, said the theatre would move to the Estonian National Museum, with its first performances there scheduled for early October.
“Our needs have changed considerably over the years, and we feel that Genialistide club can no longer meet them. The main shortcomings are the venue’s technical capacity and stability,” Elge said.
Möku co-owner Kaarel Jõudvald said the bar’s initial plan was to move to Vabaduse puiestee 5 by mid-December.
“We see Genialistide club as a cultural and events venue. We like running an ordinary pub where people can come without a particular reason,” Jõudvald said. He added that the club could now try operating a bar itself or see how a new operator manages it.
Möku’s revenue has helped cover a large share of Genialistide club’s rental costs. The club nevertheless expects to find new operators and continue as a platform from which projects can develop.
“A subculture venue is constantly changing. Genialistide club has been a creative incubator all these years. We are not simply looking for people to fill square metres or sell beer, but for substantive partners,” said the club’s administrator, Juhan Kari.
The club still hopes to receive programme support for this year by making some changes to its programme. Noise measurements conducted in August were within the permitted limits, and the city is prepared to provide funding.
Tartu cultural department head Sten Svetljakov said the exact amount would depend on the club’s application, including the number of events already held and planned. The city and the club are due to discuss the activities and support on Wednesday.