Club 57 (nightclub)

Club 57 was a nightclub that operated in the basement of the Holy Cross Polish National Church at 57 St. Mark's Place in the East Village of Manhattan, New York City, from 1978 to 1983. Though relatively short-lived, it became a legendary hub for the downtown New York art, music, and performance scene.

Club 57 was initially conceived as a party space for the parishioners of the church, but quickly evolved into a center for alternative culture. It was characterized by its do-it-yourself ethos, low admission prices, and eclectic programming. Events ranged from film screenings and poetry readings to live music performances and costume parties. The club nurtured a spirit of experimentation and artistic collaboration, providing a platform for emerging artists who would later achieve significant recognition.

Key figures associated with Club 57 include Kenny Scharf, Keith Haring, Ann Magnuson, John Sex, Klaus Nomi, and many others. The club's atmosphere fostered a unique blend of punk rock, new wave, performance art, and queer culture. Its influence can be seen in the subsequent development of downtown New York's artistic landscape and its enduring impact on popular culture.

The club's popularity began to wane in the early 1980s, influenced by factors such as changing trends, increased competition from other venues, and the growing AIDS epidemic. Despite its relatively brief existence, Club 57 remains an important symbol of a vibrant and innovative period in New York City's cultural history.