The Alley does it again

By Lorena Jordan

Imagine if you will the following scene: it’s Halloween night, and this writer is leaving her normal bar scene to attend a party celebrating the occasion. Suddenly, rain pours, forcing a pleasant interlude into a race against time and makeup, resulting in said writer's arrival to the grand party in wet and exhausted fashion.

Expecting a jubilant greeting from the party’s staff, dear reader? Think again, as the door opens only to fear: a chainsaw-wielding clown to her left, 20-foot dominating Frankenstein with whip to her right.

This was the scene facing every party goer at Studio 300: Disco Halloween, The Alley's anniversary celebration considered a staple on Charleston’s entertainment calendar. Here, disco refuses to die — instead, it lives on to form a new theme each year, keeping guests hungering for more.

Completing the fright-inducing welcome was a vintage 1980s hearse, perfect in case the performers scared patrons to death. Upon safe entry, one could easily assume The Alley had turned back the hands of time: 70s-attired staff escorted starry-eyed guests into the bar area that, complete with a gorgeous disco ball, graciously provided vibes and funk reminiscent of Studio 54.

Throughout the night, The Alley’s bowling lanes and arcade games were free, affording rare opportunities for not just mere men to compete, but noble characters such as knights and Pokemon.

With music jiving and libations thriving, revelers sustained a high level of energy with a sliders and taters appetizer bar. This simple combination was a boozy food hit. Upstairs, an intimate silent disco reigned supreme spawning Soul Train-inspired party lines of dancers donning headphones. Elsewhere, the DJ spun tales of woe, joy and love from a haunted house booth while screen-shot zombies covered the walls perfecting the decor.

Now in its seventh year, The Alley’s Studio 300 bash not only provides the city with an escape into various worlds but it’s a fundraiser for Be A Mentor, a cause close to the owners’ hearts. Studio 300 is nominated annually for Charleston City Paper's Best Party of the Year and I know why.

If by chance it wasn't on your radar, now it is. Go next year and you won’t want to miss it ever again.