For 3 Years, This Ex-TV Studio Was Celebrity Central Before Tax Evasion Shut It Down

Studio 54, New York

For 33 magical months between 1977 and 1980, a former CBS television studio became the world’s most exclusive party destination.

Studio 54’s strict door policy kept thousands waiting outside while the fortunate few inside witnessed a nightly parade of celebrities behaving badly.

Here are some of our favorite stories from this legendary Manhattan joint.

The Opening Night Spectacle

Studio 54’s April 26, 1977 launch party set a new standard for nightlife. PR expert Carmen D’Alessio used her elite New York connections to fill gossip columns with buzz about the opening.

Crowds grew so large that security had to move outside to control the chaos. Ian Schrager later compared the electric atmosphere to touching a lightning bolt and Disney World.

Bianca Jagger’s White Horse Birthday Party

In May 1977, fashion designer Roy Halston Frowick threw a 30th birthday party for Bianca Jagger, then wife of Rolling Stones singer Mick Jagger. The event led to the most iconic image in Studio 54’s history.

A performer covered in gold glitter led Bianca around the dance floor on a white horse. Photographer Rose Hartman captured the moment, creating the perfect symbol of the club’s over-the-top style.

The New Year’s Eve Glitter Extravaganza

Event planner Robert Isabell created a legendary New Year’s Eve party by pouring four tons of glitter onto Studio 54’s dance floor. The shimmering carpet made dancers feel like they were moving on top of stardust, according to Schrager.

Guests found glitter in their homes and clothes for months afterward. Stars like Lionel Richie, Diana Ross, Mick and Bianca Jagger, and artist Andy Warhol all joined the unforgettable night.

Grace Jones’ Theatrical Performances

Model and singer Grace Jones delivered some of Studio 54’s most striking performances. Her bold stage presence matched perfectly with the club’s theatrical spirit.

During one New Year’s Eve show, Jones performed for 2,000 guests while wrapped in a scarf decorated with flowers. Her avant-garde style and artistic expression embodied Studio 54’s creative freedom.

The Valentino Circus Birthday Party

Giancarlo Giammetti turned Studio 54 into a circus to celebrate the birthday of his partner, renowned fashion designer Valentino. During the party, a sand-filled ring with performers dressed as mermaids dazzled the crowd below with trapeze acts.

Film director Federico Fellini loaned costumes from his movie ‘The Clowns’ for the night. Valentino himself played ringmaster, blending fashion and theater.

Andy Warhol’s Roller Skate Birthday Bash

On August 6, 1979, designer Halston hosted a birthday party for artist Andy Warhol at Studio 54. Halston gave Warhol a pair of roller skates while club owner Steve Rubell presented him with a garbage can filled with cash.

Warhol often visited Studio 54, taking photos of guests and events. He famously referred to the club’s entrance as a dictatorship and its dance floor as a democracy.

The Exclusive Door Policy Revolution

Doorman Marc Benecke controlled who got into Studio 54. He stood on a small step to view the crowds as he picked guests. Benecke likened the task to tossing a salad where he sought the right blend of people each night.

Couples might be split up if one looked right for the club while the other didn’t. Even Steve Rubell admitted that if he weren’t the owner, he too would be turned away at the door.

The Grease Movie Premiere Party

In 1978, Studio 54 hosted the celebration for the hit movie ‘Grease.’ Producer Allan Carr arranged for the cast, including star Olivia Newton-John, to arrive in a line of vintage 1950s convertibles.

Newton-John spent the night dancing with author Allen Carr amid the club’s famous party atmosphere.

The Extravagant Valentine’s Day Celebration

For Valentine’s Day 1979, Studio 54 transformed into a romantic wonderland. Organizers brought in 3,000 Dutch tulips and laid down 4,000 square yards of real grass from Bermuda.

Eight antique sculptures, each worth $17,000, decorated the space for this one-night event.

The Legendary Final Party

On February 2-3, 1980, Studio 54 held its farewell party, called ‘The End of Modern-Day Gomorrah.’ The biblical name was a nod to the club’s wild reputation.

Diana Ross performed for owners Rubell and Schrager, who were due to begin prison sentences for tax evasion two days later. Stars like Jack Nicholson, Sylvester Stallone, Richard Gere, and Liza Minnelli came to mark the end of an era.

Visiting Studio 54

Studio 54 is at 254 West 54th Street between Broadway and 8th Avenue in Manhattan. Today, the venue operates as a Broadway theater run by Roundabout Theatre Company.

You can visit during show times, which vary depending on current productions. Ticket prices range from $59 to $179 based on seating and performance date.

The 54 Below cabaret venue in the basement offers dinner and performances starting at $40 plus food minimum.

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