RaveClean Lvl.2

Last weekend I had the pleasure of helping to set up for RaveClean Lvl.2 (#RaveClean). A rave in Greensboro? Really? The answer is yes! This organization is dedicated to throwing awesome parties without the use of alcohol or drugs. It really is unfortunate how raving is practically synonymous with doing drugs - a concept that the local governments in North Carolina seem to have taken to heart. That's probably why RaveClean has found such success in throwing raves that cities can actually get behind.

The venue was a multipurpose space in the back of the Community Theatre of Greensboro. Tall ceilings, open floor space, and a balcony overlooking the dance floor fit the event well. I helped set up the lights, carry in beverages and set up the upstairs area. After a good four hours of working together, we'd set up the lights, lasers, speakers, and everything else you need for a good time.

Now onto the main event - the rave! The lights went off, DJ's starting playing, and slowly but surely the space filled up. A good 200 people showed up, which was very nearly capacity for the venue. As I danced like crazy (like I always do) I began to notice the differences between this event and the ones I'm used to in Atlanta.

First, the music. They really love dubstep and trap. I'm not saying that Atlanta doesn't - but they were definitely the majority genre. There was trance and house too, but these in themselves were different as well. In general, the music seemed to sample more well known songs and maintain the vocals over the groovy remixed beats.

And obviously, no one was on drugs. The lack of drugs seemed to act like a filter - only the people who reeaaallly love dancing showed up. The dance floor was always full, with very few passively watching. Another thing - everyone remained equally spaced out on the dance floor. I honestly am baffled by this. My only guess as to why this spacing was so uniform is because everyone was dancing so enthusiastically that they needed the space so that they didn't smack each other in the face haha.

RaveClean had a very different feel from what I'm used to...I still can't put my finger on it. I think a space with a lower ceiling would have given me a feeling more reminiscent of the warehouse venues I adore. But it wasn't just the space or the music. I'll need to attend another event and get back to you on that ;)

Overall, I had an amazing time. I met so many people and made some great contacts that I think will definitely be helpful when I throw my first event.

#RaveClean #Greensboro #Setup