The Spin
FRANKIE C SITS DOWN WITH TheMonster BAR ANDCLUB OWNER Charlie Rice TO HONOR THE LEGENDARY ESTABLISHMENT’S 32ND YEAR OF BEING GAY AND PROUD…
The Monster has been given a new dress to wear so to speak. How does this make you feel?
You mean like “Filling the Shoes” of some Tres’ Vintage frock?… a worn Valentino… classic of course.
What can you tell us about The Monster that would surprise the public?
Circa 1981: The Monster is currently the longest-running gay dance bar open seven nights a week – with its increasingly diverse clientele. Originally called EL CHICO, a flamenco supper club since 1930, then in the 1950s a Middle Eastern club named El Avram. An amazing legacy to follow.
The Monster is a well-oiled machine. what goes into make that happen?
Owning up, remaining under control. We are a “hands on” business with hard work, a genuine collaboration of family work ethic.
Throughout the 32 years of being open, who has walked through its doors?
Too many to name. The list remains priceless: film and stage stars, writers, lawyers, fashionistas, rich and not so famous! We welcome them all!
What is The Monster most known for?
A Cheers-style bar, neighborhood institute with a fusion of every vibe, every scene, every physique, every taste.
I’ve heard people say the drag queen with the longestrunning gig in new York city is jesse Volt. is this true?
Jesse Volt is the ultimate pro: Always on time, no attitude, drama free and a genuine sweetheart.
With the resurge happening at The Monster, what can you tell us that has been the most shocking?
Connection seekers for real dialogue. People talking, dancing with each other.
Would you say the establishment is a cornerstone in the community?
We have been told that by our neighbors, and Senator Brad Hoylman concurs.
Where did the name come from?
A turn-of-the-century woodcarved carousel creature from Coney Island.
With social media playing a big part in our culture today, how has it changed the nightlife scene?
With a business to run, one can’t spend the whole day tweeting and chatting on Facebook. Technology has “de-personalized” the culture, yet The Monster proudly remains the connection to roots. We give cheers to those champions past!
Tell us about your cocktails and why they are so special?
Simply “DE-LISH” and booze so affordable, as Samantha might say on “Sex in the City.”
What do you look for when hiring Djs, drag queens and piano players?
The humble talent potential that all artists cherish with The Monster providing the showcase. And the piano players are STELLAR!
The memorabilia that covers The Monster walls is always changing. why is that?
Mixing it up: Showcasing the collection, love of beauty, culture, history. Picassos, Sicilian bronzes, Lalique chandeliers, framed posters. After all we are ITALIAN at heart!
How many locations of The Monster were there and where were they located?
Fire Island, Cherry Grove, Key West and Manhattan – 80 Grove Street, baby!
I’ve been to The Monster on the night that Djs lady Bunny, johnny Dynell and Michael Formika jones have played, and ihave to say it was brilliant. can you tell us how it makes you feel knowing you have the caliber of Djs spinning in your club?
Love and gratitude. After all, it’s all about the vibe. They’re getting in sync with the inner club’s rhythms translates to the patrons.
What are some of the parties one can find at The Monster?
THE BIG SIX, surprise, surprise. Daniel Nardicio, Lady Bunny’s Sunday Tea Dance, Manster, Hot Rabbit, Tuesdays Retro Fix and Mondays Sabor Latino! as the Monster sets sail into 2014, what can we expect to see at The Monster Bar and club?
BIG crowds, big drinks, variety, entertainment. Our wellestablished hospitality will remain the cornerstone in the Village vortex. Keeping in mind for our patrons the relaxation and revelry from the everyday tension that seeps into our lives.
Happy anniversary
Monster Bar and Club. I crown you New York City’s gayest Dance floor seven nights a week. Thank you for all the years of happiness that youv’e given the LGBTQ community. Congratulations!
80 Grove St. New York, NY 10014 Manhattan-monster.com
Best Always, Frankie C [email protected] Model & Monster Bartender: Jeremy Photos By FrankieC.net
