The Independent has joined forces with the Music Venue Trust to shine a light on the UK’s independent music venues, including Rapture, a brand-new venue in Kirkwall, Orkney. Rapture opened in July 2025 as part of a redevelopment of a previously unused warehouse. The space features two levels: the lower floor has a large dance floor and a main bar, while the upper level includes a smaller bar with booth seating. The venue has an industrial aesthetic, with metal and wood fixtures blending with the original brick walls and wooden beams. Rapture’s operator, Neil Stevenson, faces several challenges due to the venue’s remote location on an island. Higher running costs are a significant issue, especially for freight and delivery of materials and fixtures. Booking musicians is also difficult, as travel costs and the distance from the mainland make it harder to attract acts, particularly those requiring flights. However, Stevenson has built a strong relationship with Pentland Ferries, which helps transport bands to Orkney more affordably. Stevenson noted that many music venues on mainland Scotland have closed in recent years, disrupting the network that allowed musicians to tour the Highlands and Islands. He also highlighted the challenge of convincing people to take a chance on seeing up-and-coming artists, which can mean missing out on discovering a future star. He recalled bringing the band Biffy Clyro to Orkney in 2004, when only 70 people attended the show. Today, Biffy Clyro performs in large arenas. Looking ahead, Rapture plans a short winter break in January for a small renovation to enhance the space for live performances. The venue also hopes to continue offering a diverse lineup as its reputation grows. Future plans include hosting a Battle of the Bands competition to support local musicians and songwriters. Stevenson believes that running a venue like Rapture is valuable, as it provides a unique space for live music in Orkney, offering both locals and visiting artists a place to perform without needing to travel to the mainland. He is committed to proving that geography should not limit access to great live music. One of Stevenson’s favorite events at Rapture was a performance by Big Country, which took place during the World Cup match between Scotland and Morocco. The venue offered combined tickets for the gig and the football match, with flags and bunting creating a patriotic atmosphere. While the football match did not go Scotland’s way, the event was described as both electric and fantastic, showing the unique way Rapture brings together music and community.