27 Nov 2019
With closures and tighter restrictions, London’s nightlife is moving to the cities periphery – legally, spiritually and geographically. What inspires people to create their own space? What challenges are involved? From raves in empty swimming pools to a new wave of DIY fetish parties, Will Coldwell talks to members of London’s guerilla party scene on the significance of these spaces as playgrounds of creativity and diversity.
Will Coldwell
Will Coldwell is a London-based journalist whose work centres on nightlife, society and cities. He is acting digital editor for the Economist's 1843 magazine and previously worked at the Guardian, where he reported on club culture around the world. He is co-founder of live art club night Inner U.
Emmanuel Grima
Rather than pursuing the lucrative world of finance and consultancy as the rest of his Cass Business School counterparts, Emmanuel Grima started his record label and party Childsplay. After being banned from the venue where they held a residency, he took the party to disused spaces. These nights have grown to become something much more than just another squat party – establishing a new generation of the nation’s iconic rave culture.
Karl Verboten
Karl Verboten is the founder of Klub Verboten. Having been part of the Berlin fetish scene for some years, and finding these kind of spaces lacking in London, Karl decided to set up an event of his own that combined techno, fetish and kink. He drew on his own background as a stage designer and video technician to bring it to life, with the aim of making Klub Verboten a party for the senses.
Drinks provided by Absolut Vodka