Clubbing Culture at Xe54

Relocating to Bourke Street Courtyard as of this weekend, our weekly club night, Xe54, aims to be an inclusive platform where community thrives and authentic clubbing culture reigns true. 

Let’s chat to Xe54 General Manager/Talent Buyer, Annabelle Dalziel about the story & the ethos that lives behind Xe54. 

For those out of the loop, what is Xe54?

Xe54 is Untitled Group’s weekly club night held each Saturday night at Bourke St Courtyard. We recently relocated due to the venue's monster sound system & multiple spaces available for activation. Over the past two years it was held at The Bottom End til the early morning. It was resurrected there in 2021 but when the brand originally launched in 2017 it was located in a basement on City Road in Southbank. People still rave about that venue’s underground atmosphere. Over the years we’ve seen a plethora of the finest local and international selectors grace our decks; from but not limited to Honey Dijon, Green Velvet, Skin on Skin, Denis Sulta, DJ Heartstring and KETTAMA.

How does Xe54 continue to stay relevant within a clubbing scene that is constantly evolving?

Creating and maintaining community is so important. Clubbing is centred around community. Engaging young promoters with a keen interest in dance music and staying open to new sounds and what’s happening culturally is key to remaining relevant in a scene that’s constantly changing. 

What is the importance of a weekly diverse music programme? 

In general diverse programming is paramount to running safe, progressive and quality parties. Music and culture go hand in hand which impacts how people behave in the world. As a mega club that plays mostly house and techno it’s important to acknowledge dance music’s black roots, especially in a country like Australia where POC are underrepresented in those spaces. Also hiring/engaging people from diverse communities behind the scenes as well as in front of the decks helps create a well-rounded safe space which is reflected back in the culture.

How does Xe54 differentiate itself from other clubs?

Xe54’s brand has remained consistent over the years despite our change in venue and the many changes culturally in youth dance music, especially post-pandemic. Our iconic strip lighting, minimalist yet bold design choices (which have been replicated many times) and strong weekly programming that champions the best emerging talent sets us apart. Saying that, belonging to such a rich electronic music community in Melbourne is very inspiring and we definitely take inspiration from our peers and the scene often. 

How is Xe54 shining a spotlight on the new wave of local talent that is coming out of Melbourne?

At Xe54 we take great pride in booking talent early and developing them from baby DJs, to supports for big acts, to headliners that are playing large festivals/doing guest mixes overseas and selling out venues across the country. We have a solid team of people from different hubs in Melbourne paying close attention to upcoming talent to ensure we get in early and our booking are always on point.

What goals do you have for the future of Xe54's club culture?

Continuing to create a safe space for self expression where anyone is welcome to come, let loose and have a memorable night!