SESH

Hell Phone was a distinctive and atmospheric nightclub once situated in Brooklyn, New York, known for its imaginative concept and association with the city’s vibrant nightlife underground. Opened in 2015, Hell Phone gained notoriety for its speakeasy-style entrance, which required guests to enter a red telephone booth in the back of the adjacent restaurant, Le Boudoir, and dial a secret code in order to gain access. The club’s design featured moody red lighting, vintage decor, and an intimate layout, making it a favorite locale for those seeking a mysterious or otherworldly experience removed from the mainstream.

Its name and ambiance were inspired by motifs of the underworld, but its overall energy was lively and welcoming, drawing a diverse crowd of revelers, artists, and musicians. Although Hell Phone was relatively short-lived, closing its doors in late 2018 following changes in property ownership and development plans for the area, its cultural imprint lived on in New York’s nightlife scene and in the memories of those who experienced its unconventional charm. Throughout its operation, Hell Phone hosted a wide array of events, ranging from underground electronic DJ sets and burlesque shows to poetry readings and immersive theater.

This eclectic programming allowed it to build a reputation as a supportive hub for creative expression, with emphasis on inclusivity and alternative culture. It was particularly recognized for championing the Brooklyn electronic music community. Internationally renowned artists as well as emerging local talents graced its intimate stage, contributing to the club’s legacy as an incubator for boundary-pushing performance and musical innovation.

The constant evolution in programming reflected the shifting tastes of the community it served, and the venue’s adaptability was one of its core strengths until its closure. Notable artists who performed at Hell Phone include international electronic music names such as DJ Tiga and Miss Kittin, as well as celebrated local figures like Brooklyn-based DJ and producer Lauren Flax, performance artist Machine Dazzle, and experimental pop group Secret Crush. The club also regularly featured rising acts from the New York area’s queer and drag performance scenes and became a platform for avant-garde acts such as JD Samson and the collectively organized CHERYL art-party troupe.