While Vauxhall was already transforming itself into a bustling gay village of smaller venues, when new Sunday morning afterhours Beyond opened its doors at superclub Colosseum ten years ago, it virtually put the area on the international map as London’s premier gay dance destination.
Now comfortably nestled into its most recent home at Area, it continues to dominate the weekend party schedule. Here, original Beyond DJs and more recent deck talent share their favourite memories…
STEVE PITRON
She was about to move back to Australia. She had handed me a carefully folded up note she had written. It said how much she enjoyed coming to hear me play and that I was her favourite DJ. It was really sweet.
Many hours later, after one too many drinks, I attempted to leave the club, a little worse for wear.
I just remember being in the car park outside, with all the doors open, on all fours having ‘a bit of a moment’. All of a sudden a hand came down from nowhere and handed me a bottle of water.
I took the water and looked up – it was the girl from earlier. A real dignity shredder… other than that – I have had so many incredible memories at Beyond over the years, and I have met so many wonderful people.
Beyond will always remain my favourite clubbing experience, ever. I can’t believe 10 years has passed!
SEVERINO
Lots of great memories at Beyond! That room next to the DJ booth was famous for that! We had Boy George playing there, too.
But my main memory was to open every Sunday morning at 4.30am.
I used to be there around 4am ‘cause the queue was already mad by then.
Craig used to double-check everything and saying to me, “Seve, you ready? We’re open!” and in just 20 minutes that main room was insane! I’m looking forward to the 24th!
THE SHARP BOYS
The crowd loved it and kept looking up to the DJ box trying to spot him! His voice was so distinctively George – it was hilarious!
JONNY M
Beyond was pretty much the first gay club I ever went to when it was back at the Colosseum.
I remember thinking how incredible it was to see such a cross section of the gay scene coming together to party.
And the music – the Skylark mix of ‘SOS’ was new at the time and getting caned every week. It still brings back all the memories when I listen to it now.
All I wanted to do was DJ there so I guess it’s a bit of a dream come true what I’m doing now.
Beyond celebrates its 10th birthday at Area (68 Albert Embankment, Vauxhall, SE1 7TP) this Sunday 25th September, 6am-1pm.
