Adelaide Fringe hosts inclusive nightclub for disabled individuals

A special nightclub event called The Heart Beat Club will take place during the Adelaide Fringe. This club is designed for adults with disabilities and is run by DJs who also have disabilities. James Bull and Lorcan Hopper, known as DJ Bucking Bull and DJ Power, are preparing for their first performance on Friday. They aim to create a fun atmosphere for people who often face challenges in regular clubs. Many individuals with disabilities feel unwelcome in traditional nightclubs due to issues like strobe lights and misunderstandings about their behavior. James, who has epilepsy and experienced anxiety in nightclubs, now enjoys the spotlight as a DJ. He shared that he sometimes gets nervous but loves the energy from the crowd. Gaelle Mellis, the creative director of Tutti Arts, highlights that many people with disabilities have been turned away from clubs because of their condition. The Heart Beat Club was created to provide a safe and welcoming space for everyone. With high demand for DJ performances, each DJ’s set is limited to just 10 songs, which can be challenging for Lorcan, who has many favorite tracks. Despite this, he is excited to perform. Past events have sparked interest in these DJs, leading to other booking opportunities. Ticket sales for this unique club night are going well, and Lorcan encourages people to attend, saying, "If you want to come to a real nightclub, come to us."