Bimini backs Art After Dark as London nightlife searches for a new era (EXCLUSIVE)
Attitude attends Art After Dark’s DJ takeover of the National Gallery with Bimini
By Ashley Davey
Whether we like it or not, the late-night club scene is undergoing a major transformation. Nightlife culture is struggling to survive in the current economic climate, as Generation Z gravitates towards more wholesome weekend pursuits, from niche hobby classes to early-morning Pilates.
Unfortunately, this is true for London as well. Only last year, the iconic 25-year-old G-A-Y Bar permanently closed its doors in October 2025, with the owner citing rising costs and the area’s diminishing LGBTQ+ identity as key reasons for the closure.
That’s precisely why Art After Dark’s West End takeover felt so exciting. Attitude attended the one-off, after-hours DJ event at the National Gallery on 5 February – and, truthfully, we had a blast.
Art After Dark at the National Gallery includes sets from: Bimini, Karaba and DJ Mia Lily
Seeing the National Gallery open its doors for an exclusive evening filled with music, dance, performance and creative energy was invigorating. The opportunity to view its iconic artworks after hours was simply the cherry on top. With DJ sets from Bimini, Karaba and DJ Mia Lily, it proved to be the perfect after-work release.
Speaking exclusively to Attitude, RuPaul’s Drag Race UK star Bimini gave their insight into how other organisations might take inspiration from accessible cultural events like Art After Dark.
“London was always such a cultural hotspot – the coolest venues, the best parties – and I think there’s definitely been a decline in that,” Bimini said.
“That’s what gets people excited to go out and do things” – Bimini on London nightlife
“We still have some pioneering spaces doing amazing things, like Body Movements, but I do think we need more weird, unexpected spaces. That’s what gets people excited to go out and do things,” they added.
“Everyone’s doomscrolling at home, not socialising. Get out on the dance floor, listen to some music,” Bimini concluded.
Here at Attitude, we’re partial to a good dance and an even better time, so we couldn’t agree more with Bimini. If events like Art After Dark are any indication of a transforming nightlife scene, then there may still be hope yet for us dancers.
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