PROGRESS is a legendary UK nightclub and club night brand deeply interwoven with the country’s dance music heritage. Originally launched in the early 1990s in Derby, Derbyshire, PROGRESS quickly established itself as a pivotal venue for house, trance, and progressive dance music, becoming an influential force in the Midlands’ clubbing scene. Its inception occurred at a time when club culture in the UK was flourishing, with raves and superclubs gaining prominence, and PROGRESS offered a distinctive, energetic alternative to the larger, more commercial clubs.

The club was celebrated for its inclusive, friendly atmosphere, attracting devoted partygoers from across the UK, and developed a reputation for pushing musical boundaries. Its nights became famed for their electric vibe and cutting-edge sounds, cementing its status as a must-visit destination for serious music fans as well as casual clubbers. Over time, PROGRESS underwent several changes in location and structure.

The event originated at The Conservatory, Derby, before moving to the much larger and renowned venue, The Eclipse (later known as The Emporium), to accommodate its growing audience and increasingly ambitious lineups. Its legacy also expanded to guest locations and collaborations with other major festivals and club nights. Despite occasional breaks and periods of inactivity, PROGRESS has remained resilient, reemerging through reunions and special events that celebrate its storied past.

The club’s commitment to underground vibes and high-caliber performances made it a cultural touchstone for UK dance fans, contributing to the evolution of British nightlife and helping launch the careers of both local and international DJs. Today, PROGRESS is remembered both nostalgically and with continuing reverence by those who experienced its heyday, and it periodically returns for reunion parties that draw crowds of original fans and a new generation alike. Notable artists who have performed at PROGRESS include Sasha, John Digweed, Paul Oakenfold, Carl Cox, Seb Fontaine, Tall Paul, Judge Jules, Boy George, Lisa Lashes, Dave Seaman, Sister Bliss, Jeremy Healy, Graeme Park, Tony De Vit, and local talent such as Steve Luigi, Glen M, and Paul Reynolds.