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THROUGH THE LOOKING GLASS WITH MADSTILLNESS
THROUGH THE LOOKING GLASS WITH MADSTILLNESS
How the MadStillNess team are breathing exciting new life into Bristol’s sober scene.
Last week I had the pleasure of diving down the rabbit hole, falling into the remarkable world of MadStillNess and their spring equinox celebration: an eclectic feast of movement, self expression and mindfulness that had been lovingly curated for the sober and sober-curious. Upon meeting Phöebe and those behind this wonderland, It was immediately apparent that this was something like no other, this was a special story being told by those who need a space to tell it.
MadStillNess are gently diverting from Bristol’s sober scene, raising it to their own level where it is no longer just a night out, but an experience to navigate. A spiritual wonderland of sounds and colours and magic, of catwalks and cabaret and community (and caterpillars blowing bubbles - shoutout to Mélanffro who was a radiant presence throughout the evening). It was a bejewelled box of silliness and thoughtfulness, a gift in itself handmade by an incredible collective of artists.
Speaking to the brilliant mind behind it all, Phöebe Hares, it was a privilege to learn more about the meaning of MadStillNess:
'Our ethos and values are to reimagine nightlife as an art-driven inclusive experience through combining music, movement, play & expression in a ritualistic setting, offering an experience that fosters wellbeing over escapism. It’s a space of non-judgmental exploration of the body and mind - not caring about what you look like but tapping into how you feel and how your body wants to move in a trauma-informed safe(r) space that’s held in community. It’s about tuning into sensuality and using physical release to find stillness in the mind.'
Stepping into the exquisite space that is The Mount Without, it felt as though the venue was crafted specifically for this night. Vanilla and cinnamon incense delicately danced around the candle lit hall and up to the painted blue sky above. Beams of sunlight colourfully filtered through the stained glass windows, dotting the dancefloor with glittering shades of greens, yellows and blues. To the left; pillows, beanbags and other forms of seating adorned the cosy space, cordially inviting those who were searching for a sanctuary to get comfortable in and watch the night unfold.
To the right, the captivating Pneumatek graced the wall: an interactive light installation that tracked the movements of whoever was in front of it. Pneumatek transformed their part of the venue into a steady flow of colour, light and free movement, allowing those who were interested to become absorbed in the swirls of various hues, merging themselves with the webs of energy beyond our physical forms. The way the space had been split up into pockets of sound, movement and mingling was delightfully intentional, and I found myself settling in right away, ready for the night ahead.
The alcohol free element of MadStillNess did not stop the delectable drinks from flowing throughout the evening. Bristol’s own Arc Sober Bar provided a full-bodied selection of alcohol free spirits and cocktails from Sentia, elevating the room’s energy with botanical bliss. Whilst the two Sentia spirits that I tried were beautifully complex and invigorating, the luxurious ceremonial cacao from Love Jam Community was my personal favourite. Not only were the drinks a work of art themselves, but each one was served in an elegant tea cup: yet another sign of MadStillNess’ attentiveness to their theme and the unfaltering passion for their vision.
It’s hard to describe the feeling of belonging that radiated from myself and those around me. Performers graced the dancefloor and weaved in and out of the crowds, Morbid Merriments being a particular favourite. The talented multidisciplinary artist gilded the event with herself and her puppets - curious critters whom she’d lovingly crafted from dried flora and bones, and this wasn’t all. A diverse selection of clowns, dancers and cabaret artists enhanced the night, truly transporting you to the world of Alice.
Playful jazz from Lab Jam, a dynamic DJ set from Lexx and introspective meditation and breathwork Phöebe defined from the evening; delivering something for everyone and creating an open space free from judgement, substances and the need to mask. It was clear that welfare, love and consent was the priority here.
The journey that unravelled ahead of me was one of idyllic balance, with each energetic set being paired with an attentive cool down, and it was the closing ceremony that was particularly unforgettable; a guided sound bath from the ethereal Camilla Mason, leaving individuals sinking beautifully into themselves, pairs curling together like yin and yang, all unfurling with a weight lifted from their heart and soul, and as the night came to a close, I watched over the sea of smiles and glowing eyes, and I couldn’t help the smile on my face, yearning to be here down the rabbit hole again soon.
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