EQUINOX
A SEASON OF RENEWAL
by Matt Kalkhoff
 

The vernal equinox, which occurs on or about March 21 each year, represents the beginning of spring and is one of only two days a year when night and day are of equal length. But for many of us in New York City, equinox is more akin to blurring the line between night and day as we make our way from one mega dance party to the next.

Following Bruce Mailman's tradition of celebrating the astronomical anomaly with Black Party at the Saint, Susan Morabito and Avid Productions produced the first Equinox party at Octagon in 1995 as a tribute to the spirit of the legendary nightclub. Now a full-fledged extension of Black Party weekend, the celestial soiree provides one last opportunity to dance in memory of friends who have passed while celebrating a renewal of life. On Sunday, March 23rd, Equinox returns to the space where it all began for another galactic gathering of astrophysical revelry.

"We went back to Octagon because the intimacy was missing at Exit," explains Morabito, who spins the event and shares production duties with Avid Productions NYC. "Octagon has a magical intimacy and a circular dance floor that promotes warmth and unifies dancers." In this respect, Equinox may seem like the antithesis of Black Party. But Morabito purposefully carries over a distinct yet subtle sexuality from the Saint-At-Large affair that not only satiates her guests' dance floor desires but compliments the Saint's legacy as well.

The positive energy and close connection she shares with the various tribes that gather to celebrate with her at Equinox always brings out the best in Morabito's turntable prowess. She also gets most excited about spinning this particular event because many of the best dance records of the year are released in March prior to the Winter Music Conference. But it's her special re-edits of dramatic production numbers like last year's "Dark Side of the Moon" by Pink Floyd that stand out as the highlight for many people. She promises something equally special this year with a couple of classic tunes already in mind for a Morabito makeover.

For those who may be concerned about past security issues at Octagon, you have Susan's word, "Security will be gracious." She also reminds us, "If you respect the club, the club will respect you." So please party responsibly (always).

Tickets are $50 in advance at The Barracks at Rainbows & Triangles and Heartbeat Records and online at AvidProductionsNYC.com; $60 at the door (if available). A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Michael Callen - Audre Lorde Community Health Center.


© 2002 Matt Kalkhoff
Featured in NEXT Magazine's BlackParty issue, March 2002