Webster Hall - A Night To Remember

Story by Lorna Taylor
Photo's by Father Jerry and Malena White



n All Hallow's Eve, while the streets of New York were filled with many a witch, ghost, and goblin, many partygoers in town were heading down to Webster Hall for the Annual After-Parade Halloween Dance Party. Located in the heart of the East Village, Webster Hall has upheld a long-standing reputation as one of New York City's hottest dance clubs, attracting clubgoers of all walks of life, from near and far. This particular night was no exception.

In many cases, when one thinks of the phrase "club scene", some people envision painfully loud music, people shoving through crowds, stuck-up attitudes, and drinks spilled all over expensive clothing. However on this particular night there was nothing but an aura of peace, love, and fun in the air. I could actually sense the vibes emanating from anyone I stood near and spoke to - that they were having a very good time. There were no attitudes, nor were there any potential fights brewing on this particular night. Strangers complimented one another on their costumes, and for one night only people were allowed to forego the standard "club attitude" take photos of one another, and break the ice with whomever they pleased. Partygoers young and old as well as people from near and far were in attendance, and everyone I spoke to was having a great time. I had the pleasure of speaking with a young woman from San Diego who was staying in New York for the week. She exclaimed, "This is one of the best nights of my life!"

After a few minutes of waiting by the steps for one of the bouncers to acknowledge and confirm our VIP spots, my group and I walked up the stairs into the club. Security was on the scene, doublechecking all pockets, bags, and purses to ensure everyone's safety. The large foyer area was already beginning to with early clubgoers in eager anticipation of a fun-filled night. I spotted several elaborate costumes with clever contemporary themes ranging from Austin Powers and Dr. Evil to Spongebob Squarepants. There were also many traditional costumes as well including cheerleaders, naughty schoolgirls, nurses, PVC clad nuns, construction workers, fairies, mobsters, cats, and vampires, everyone beautifully dressed. One of the most memorable costumes of the evening was a couple dressed as Day and Night. Their costumes consisted of standard Christmas decoration lights embedded within layers of mesh and lace.

By 11pm, all three of Webster Hall's dance floors were pumping. The dance floor on the main level featured familiar tunes from the 70s and 80s, perfect just for those who just wanted to kick back, relax, and dance to some good old Classic disco and rock. On the lower level, one could enjoy the latest hip-hop and reggae. The upper level which houses Webster Hall's largest dance area was filled with the sounds of techno and deep house - the staple of the true die-hard NYC clubgoer. On this night they ere spinning the sounds for KTU's live broadcast. There was also a bar room located on each level, along with a balcony area whereas you could look down to observe the activity on the large dance floor. Entry into the VIP balcony area required the proper wristband.

Shortly after 1am, the DJ announced that Cyndi Lauper would make her entrance. It was time for the main attraction to come on stage. My group and I retired upstairs to the VIP area in order to secure a clear view of the stage. Cyndi Lauper graced the stage in all the magnificent splendor in which she has been known for the past two decades. She performed "Shine" from her new Shine Album, along with a remake of her all-time classic "Girls Just Wanna Have Fun". In my humble opinion, Cyndi epitomized the word "shine" with her fabulous performance. This was truly a remarkable and memorable event that would leave behind a legacy for years to come.

I highly recommend that you visit Webster Hall at least once, whether you're a local resident, or someone who's just in town for a few days and looking for fun. Webster Hall is open from Thursday through Saturday nights from 10pm to 6am.

For more info/tickets/reservations, visit www.webster-hall.com.

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