If you tuned in to the Crystal Palace vs. Stoke City soccer game on Saturday, Sept. 18, you no doubt noticed the giant “save Fabric” banner waving near the corner flag.
After more than 20 years of service to the London scene, the iconic nightclub’s license was revoked indefinitely on Sept. 6 after a hearing by local authorities. The license was pulled in early August in response to the fatal overdoses of two 18-year-old patrons, and a hearing for reinstatement granted by London Mayor Sadiq Khan couldn’t sway officials.
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Hope remains aflame in the hearts of Fabric fans worldwide as the club moves to appeal. Carl Cox, Ben Turner, and many other dance music luminaries have banded together in support of the cause. As it can no longer operate, Fabric has opened a call for donations to cover court costs.
“We started this to create a safe place, a home – not a ‘superclub,’” states a message on the club’s website. “It’s about the fabric that unites us all, that stitches together race, gender, age and sexual preference into a brilliant tapestry. We invest in the best music, technology, interior and visual design and our staff and safety are industry leading.
But, our case shows that whatever measures you take to prevent crime and regardless of how well you run your venue, you too could still be closed. Someone has to take a stand.”
agreed pic.twitter.com/k09GiXQ2X1
— BOILER ROOM (@boilerroomtv) September 18, 2016
So far, the response has been significant. The effort has raised more than £123,000, or nearly $140,000, so far. Four Tet was the first to donate with £1,000. Eats Everything donated £3,000. Nick Gold, owner of London club The Box Soho, tops the donor list with a supportive £5,000.
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“Just think about that ticket you would have bought these last 6 weeks we’ve been shut, or those few beers at the bar,” Fabric’s message pleads. “All donations are absolutely vital and we know that together we can do this.”
Follow the movement on Twitter at #saveourculture and donate to Fabric online.