Get ready Louisville, the nightlife scene is about to get a whole lot hotter! Barbarella Dance Club, a brand-new entertainment venue, is slated to open its doors in the heart of Whiskey Row later this summer, promising to inject a fresh dose of energy into the city’s vibrant downtown.
Inspired by the iconic 1968 film starring Jane Fonda, Barbarella Dance Club is designed to be a haven for the “younger set and a liberal, hipster clientele,” according to John Gardner, a leading investor in the project. This exciting new club is positioning itself as a welcoming space for everyone, explicitly highlighting its gay-friendly atmosphere. Located just a block east of the bustling Whiskey Row district at 116 E. Main St., Barbarella Dance Club is perfectly placed to become a key destination in Louisville’s evolving nightlife landscape.
This isn’t Barbarella’s first foray into the dance club scene. Gardner and his investment group boast a successful portfolio of Barbarella clubs and similar venues across the nation, including locations in nightlife hotspots like Orlando, Florida; Las Vegas, Nevada; and the thriving Texas cities of Houston and Austin. The Barbarella concept has proven its staying power, with the original Orlando club thriving for an impressive 33 years. This wealth of experience suggests Louisville residents can expect a polished and exciting clubbing experience.
The decision to bring Barbarella Dance Club to Louisville was a strategic one. After extensive research into potential locations, considering cities such as Chicago, New Orleans, and Detroit, the investment group pinpointed Louisville as the ideal spot for expansion. The burgeoning development and lively activity around Main Street, particularly east of the KFC Yum Center, made it an irresistible choice.
Investors, including Harvey Graham, James Chauncy, and Mark Gannett, are finalizing the purchase of the 10,000-square-foot building on the south side of Main Street from Himmelberg Properties Co. This historic building, dating back to the late 1800s, is conveniently situated next to a large municipal parking garage, ensuring easy access for club-goers.
Barbarella Dance Club is aiming for a grand opening in approximately one month. The club will focus on delivering high-energy nights powered by recorded music and talented DJs spinning a diverse mix of genres, including hip hop and other popular sounds designed to appeal to a broad audience.
The planned operating hours for Barbarella Dance Club are Wednesday through Saturday nights, with doors opening around 9 p.m., perfect for late-night revelers seeking a vibrant atmosphere. While Barbarella will not offer food service, it will feature a full bar serving alcoholic beverages to keep the party going. Adding to its accessibility, the cover charge is expected to be reasonable, potentially around $5.
Drawing inspiration from the successful Barbarella in Houston, which has been a cornerstone of the city’s nightlife since 2013 and repeatedly voted “Best Dance Club” by The Houston Free Press, Louisville’s Barbarella Dance Club is poised to become a premier destination for those seeking a dynamic and inclusive nightlife experience in Whiskey Row. Get ready to dance the night away!
