N.C. Raves: Setting up
Behind the rave scenes : Setting up (2 of 10)

 

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Some rave organizers seek out unusual locations, like this former church in Wilmington. Here, worker Joe Leloudis, 19, takes a break during the setup of a rave titled 'Devotion.' MORE


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Copyright ©1998 Jim Webb. All rights reserved.


Though raves started out as clandestine parties held in abandoned warehouses, today's raves in North Carolina are almost always in legitimate locations. Unusual locations can add to the flavor and ambience of a rave, but it's a challenge for organizers to get the myriad permits necessary and make sure facilities are up to fire and safety codes. Promoters want to give officials looking to shut down their party as few opportunities as possible to do so.

Nightclubs are an easy place for promoters to hold raves, as the buildings are already up to code for the large numbers of people who will be attending. Nightclub owners certainly don't mind, as they normally see customers (and their money) leave when they stop serving alcohol at 2 a.m. -- around the same time some raves get really going. The largest parties in North Carolina -- with up to several thousand in attendance -- are held in big venues typically meant for bands and concerts, like the Millenium Center in Winston-Salem. TOP