A couple years ago, DCist’s writers waxed nostalgic about our first 9:30 Club experiences. I recalled seeing The Toasters back in 1994 at the “old 9:30 Club” on F Street NW. The Toasters, at 41 performances, have appeared on the 9:30 stage more than any other act except The Slickee Boys, who tally in at an impressive 81 shows.
That’s just one among many tidbits shared at the 9:30’s World’s Fair, a five-day celebration of the cherished venue’s 35th anniversary, and 20 years in its location at the “new 9:30 Club.”
For the event, the 9:30 has transformed into a pop-up museum that documents its transformation from a dank dive club that was ground zero for D.C.’s hardcore scene—reeking of cigarettes, stale beer, sweat, and rat piss—into the Best Big Room in America.
Attractions include a small re-creation of the old club, complete with a view-disrupting pole and videographer’s crow’s nest, a multi-media simulation of what it feels like to be in the crowd and on-stage, a tour of the backstage area, as well as countless flyers and images collected over the past three-and-a-half decades. Attendees also have the opportunity to purchase custom-screened T-shirts featuring old posters—or even get a free permanent tattoo of the logo.
Music geeks could easily spend the whole day looking through all the artifacts, recalling “I was there when” stories or marveling at the sheer number of top-flight artists that have graced the 9:30 stage. There are also listening stations playing recordings of archived concerts, another potential time suck. Stepping onto the stage is memorable for those of us who have never had the opportunity. On one side there is a projection of a sold-out audience that gives the performer’s perspective. On the other, the set is decorated with instruments, including Big Tony’s bass, Fugazi’s drumset, and Thievery Corporation’s keyboard set-up.
The Hall of Records is the most impressive display: a vinyl and CD library chronicling each and every act that has headlined a show at 9:30 Club. Talk about a trip down memory lane [Editor’s note: spotting the shows you’ve seen is a really delightful rabbithole to fall down]. Thankfully it will remain after the World’s Fair has ended.
The initial batch of free tickets sold out quickly, but organizers extended the World’s Fair through Saturday and today added even more slots to keep up with demand. Entry is on an hourly basis and you’ll want to spend some time soaking in the atmosphere.
For those who can’t make it, the commemorative book that the club has published is a more than adequate replacement that evokes just as many recollections as does walking through the space.
