Students, be they revelers or rioters, may not have to shell out for that State Street ticket to go crazy this weekend. ""Halloween 2006"" will be celebrated inside the spacious confines of a nightclub and not on the thronged streets outside.
On Oct. 26-28, a UW-Madison student-run promotion team will host three nights of live music and raging Halloween debauchery at Madison Avenue, 620 University Ave. The weekend-long party, featuring up-and-coming rock, reggae and hip hop acts, is 18-plus and a welcome alternative to the destruction and disorder on State Street.
With the help of college publication Co-Ed Magazine and Sony BMG Music Entertainment, ""Halloween 2006"" is intended to secure the party within a private, safe atmosphere and avoid the volatility for which Madison's Halloween celebration has become so notorious.
""What we're doing is giving people options,"" UW-Madison junior Daniel Reich said. ""Instead of having students and visitors haphazardly wandering around looking for something to do, we're providing a legitimate venue so people can party in a safe, controlled environment—one that doesn't include tear gas and riot gear.""
A safe haven during Madison's most hectic weekend is a nice idea, but the biggest draw may be the acts scheduled to perform. Instead of one headlining artist overshadowing the rest, the event is billed as a weekend of music and entertainment, with each night showcasing different talent and sounds.
On Thursday night, party-goers were treated to a mixture of alternative rock and reggae. Collie Buddz is a Bermuda-based dance-hall artist who has garnered considerable buzz in reggae circles for his single ""Come Around,"" showcasing enough charisma and potential to land him a deal with Sony Urban Music. Also featured Thursday night was metal band Displaced, who kicked off Co-Ed Magazine's College Caravan tour with their set at Madison Avenue.
Friday attendees will have another chance to see Buddz perform his reggae-infused jams.
Wrapping up the event on Saturday is Golden, an MC from Minneapolis who might be mistaken for a UW-Madison student if not for his uncanny ability and sharp lyricism. Golden got his break performing with the Black Eyed Peas' producer and musical director Printz Board.
Tickets for Friday and Saturday can be purchased separately and are available at www.exchangehut.com.
