Crown jewel of Peter Gatien's nightclub empire, housed in the deconsecrated Church of the Holy Communion (built 1844 by architect Richard Upjohn). Gothic Revival architecture—stained glass, soaring arches, stone corridors—created transgressive, otherworldly atmosphere.
The "chapel" was main dance floor; labyrinthine hallways for more illicit activities. Major rock venue in 80s/90s before Club Kid era: Pearl Jam, Guns N' Roses, Oasis, Nine Inch Nails. Site of first US techno sets. Haven for industrial and goth rock. Shut down by Giuliani crackdown. Became Limelight Marketplace, David Barton Gym. Now Limelight Theater (performing arts) and Jue Lan Club restaurant.
Rock in a church. Transgressive atmosphere.
We're collecting stories from musicians who performed at The Limelight