Draft:Freakeasy

The Freakeasy
The Freakeasy is an entertainment group based in Chicago, Illinois, established in 2009. It organizes events that incorporate elements of cabaret, circus arts, and music, described as underground parties, however, events have also been held in venues such as the Metro, Evil Olive, and The Concorde to name a few. The group was founded by Matt Fusello, Striz, and Justin Reed.

History
The concept of The Freakeasy was inspired in 1997 after co-founder Matt Fusello attended the Burning Man festival. Seeking to bring a similar sense of community and creativity to Chicago, Fusello, alongside Striz and Justin Reed, formally established The Freakeasy in 2009, after years of collaboration and involvement in Chicago's underground party scene.

Before founding The Freakeasy, the trio was part of the illmeasures DJ collective, which had been organizing events in Chicago. Their collaborative event, Resonate, featured Bassnectar and attracted 250 attendees, laying the groundwork for The Freakeasy's establishment. Since its inception, the events have consistently attracted large audiences, with attendances averaging between 600 and 650 people.

DJs such as Derrick Carter, Jesse Rose, Roy Davis Jr., and DJ Deeon, among others like Nickodemus, Christian Martin, and DJ Swamp, have played its events. The roster continues with talents like DJ Heather, Paul Johnson, Iz and Diz, Justin Long, Gene Hunt, Jesse De La Pena, Ron Carroll, Tee Mixwell, Jevon Jackson, Czboogie, Redux, Karl Almaria, and Adrienne Sanchez, showcasing the venue's commitment to featuring a wide range of musical styles and influences.

Philosophy
The Freakeasy's philosophy is grounded in the principle of participation and community engagement, drawing inspiration from the ethos of Burning Man. The organizers aim to dissolve the distinction between performers and attendees, encouraging contributions from all participants to enrich the event's atmosphere. This approach underscores inclusivity, with an absence of VIP areas to ensure equal treatment of all guests.

Events
The Freakeasy's events, known for their undisclosed locations, have contributed to its reputation in the underground scene. Aimed at providing an alternative to traditional nightclub experiences, these events focus on collective music, dance, and artistic expression rather than spotlighting individual performers. The selection of venues and performers is intended to cultivate a unique communal experience.

The Freakeasy has held a number of Resonate events at venues such as the Metro, Evil Olive , and The Concorde.

As of 2021 during COVID-19 the Freakeasy has worked with the City of Chicago providing programming for the periodic Sundays on State event.

"Though The Freakeasy has roots out at the Burning Man Arts Festival and the underground scene coast to coast, the collective is no stranger to curating Chicago civic events over the past decade, pulling off a 12 stage, 80 performer Halloween Party with Chicago’s Department Of Cultural Affairs at Cloud Gate in 2018, a Multi Media DJ Series show at Pritzker Pavillion-Millennium Park, The Bloomingdale/606 Trail “Sounds Of Solstice” festival, the Upside Down Halloween Parade in Washington Park, Chicago Loop Alliance’s ACTIVATE and several years producing art, music and performance at The North Halsted Street Halloween Parade."

Impact
The Freakeasy has played a role in the underground cultural scene in Chicago, offering a space for alternative forms of creative expression and community engagement. Its events are part of a broader landscape of entertainment in the city that challenges conventional modes of social gathering and performance. The significance of The Freakeasy within Chicago's cultural ecosystem can be observed through its sustained popularity and the diversity of its events.