Voodoo Restaurant-Bar – Athens, Greece

Journalistic Writing: Interview

Interview with a 23-year-old bar owner

John Gkourvelos is only 23 years old and already the owner of one of the most successful Athenian bars. Voodoo Restaurant-Bar opened its gates last year and since then it has managed to win people’s hearts as the most friendly and upbeat bar of the city centre.

Rumor has it that the nights at Voodoo are the best nights in town. Is that right? Well I guess rumors can’t be wrong. (laughing) Yes, people really love us. The bar is full of people throughout the week and each night is even better than the previous one.

How is it to have your own bar? Is it a dream come true? I’m not going to lie, it’s the best job in the world. The only thing I was ever good at was going out, meeting new people and socializing. Now all these have turned into my job. It is definitely a dream come true and I thank God for that.

How did you take the decision to open your own bar? Weren’t you afraid of the risk? I wasn’t and I’m going to explain you why. I was working as a PR junior on bars and clubs since I was 18 years old. After 3 years of work I became a maitre in two of the biggest clubs in Athens. I knew my work, I was good at it and I knew how bars and clubs work.

How did you come up with the name Voodoo? It started as a joke. My friends used to tease me, saying that if I ever opened a bar, I would have to practice voodoo magic on the clients in order to get them to visit the place. (laughing)

Which are the best features of having your own bar? The best thing is that I don’t have to work for someone else. It is my club and my people. I feel like the master of my house when I go to work.

Which are the negatives in owning a bar? Hours can be brutal. There are times when I have to do important things the next morning and I don’t get the chance to sleep at all. But I shouldn’t complain. Like I said before, I feel I have the best job I could.

What is the most important factor in opening a bar?  You got to love what you are about to do. Give your soul to it. People can tell if you do it only to make money. I am at Voodoo every night, making sure people have the best time possible.

Where would you open your next bar? We are already preparing the opening of a second Voodoo bar at Mykonos Island, but I would love to set something up at Thessaloniki. People up there are the definition of outgoing.

You’re still young, yet you have achieved such an accomplishment. What do you have left to do? Upgrade into opening a club, I guess. (laughing)

Thank you very much John!
Thank you too!

 

Greek live music stages; ‘Bouzoukia’

Journalistic Writing: Magazine article

‘Bouzoukia’; a unique phenomenon of nightlife across the world

Greece offers a large variety of choices when it comes to nightlife. Cafes, theatres, cinemas, restaurants, casinos, pubs, bars, clubs and discos form the long list of options in Greek entertainment. However, while all these choices could be encountered in any country, Greece offers one more different and unique type of music spectacle: the ‘Bouzoukia’.

‘Bouzoukia’ is the name given to the big live music venues which consist of two main parts: A raised stage where singers perform accompanied by an orchestra in the background and the numerous rows of tables placed in front of it. But it is not the layout that makes these live stages stand out. Their authenticity is dictated by the type of music performed coupled with an unique atmosphere that guests can only find there.

Greek music, the only kind of music performed at ‘bouzoukia’, is energetic and vivid carrying away everyone to dance. People dance on tables and chairs, between tables, on the corridors; they even climb up the stage and dance next to the performers. Flowers (specifically carnations) are thrown towards any direction, as a sign of esteem towards the singers, or a form of flirt and courtesy towards other clients. From the saddest slow tunes to the most cheerful ones, Greeks finds themselves expressed by the lyrics of the songs performed, which makes even the customers who are not dancing, singing along to every song and move their arms rhythmically above their heads.

Even though this type of entertainment is considered rather expensive, customers of different social and economical background can be found at these live stages, mingling and celebrating together. A night at ‘bouzoukia’ not only removes the barriers between classes, as the music praises the human passions, but also guarantees raverly which rarely ends before 7am.

Nevertheless, ‘bouzoukia’ have always been a centre of controversy. In 1994, a government law tried to impose a more strict regulation on these venues’ closing time, setting it to 3am. The rebellion that this decision caused and the extended violation of the law, led to an amendment a few months later. Before that, another law had to be imposed to constrain this frantic form of entertainment. Until 1968 clients of ‘bouzoukia’ were smashing plates at the feet of the artists to honour them. Even though those specific plates were made out of clay, several injuries had been provoked, leading to the conduction of a law forbidding this custom.

‘Bouzoukia’ is simultaneously the typical form of entertainment for Greek people and the most unconventional as well as unprecedented spectacle for foreigners. There is no mediocre approach for this form of nightlife. You are either going to love or hate it. One thing is for sure though: You should try it.

English VS Greek Nightlife

Blog Writing: Comparative Analysis

The aim of this blog entry, is to provide a comparative analysis between the English and Greek nightlife in order to form a basic guide on what a visitor should expect of these countries’ night entertainment. The author, based on her ‘nocturnal experience’ in both countries, will try to source the similarities and differences between the English and Greek way of celebrating, based upon five criteria: Club premises, music, people, drinks and the general atmosphere.

Club premises in England are massive and special efforts have been made on their decoration. Some of them set a real example of how ideal clubs should be decorated, as their owners have paid attention even to the minor details of their inlay. Special lighting, led screens, visual effects and stunning dj booths have been set up to offer the customers an unforgettable clubbing experience. In Greece, sophisticated decoration in bars and clubs has lately made its first steps, with clubs’ renovations taking place every year in an effort to reach the European standards. The advantage of Greek nightclubs though, is their location. The stunning beauty of the Greek coastal areas works as an exquisite décor for every club located near the sea.

To find a common basis on the music criteria, I will review the nights dedicated to mainstream music, since they are common in both countries. On these nights, English clubs tend to focus on tunes popular mostly to the UK audience. Djs choose songs that belong to the ‘English Pop’ or ‘UK Garage’ kind of music. As a result, foreigners and tourists should expect to listen to songs or kinds of music they might have never listen to before. On the other hand, in Greece, mainstream nights are all about genuine mainstream music. Internationally successful songs and well known tunes are selected, giving the chance to everyone, regardless of their origins or musical preferences, to sing along and dance.

Most of the time it is all about people. The crowd gathered in a club or bar plays a major role on whether a night out will be considered as entertaining or not. Luckily, people seem to have fun in both countries. In British clubs, it is impossible to find a single person standing still. The crowd is drinking and cheering as well as dancing wildly to every song popped out of the dj booth. On the other hand, in Greece, it is common for people to visit clubs just to socialize and enjoy the music, without spending a night dancing being a necessity. However, Greeks do sing alone and, as a matter of fact, a lot. When the mainstream music scenery changes to solely Greek, everyone sings at the top of its lungs, giving the visitors the impression they are in a concert venue rather than a club.

When it comes to drinks, major differences are being documented. Almost in every English club, the alcohol is of a good quality. In addition, affordable clubs offer really cheap prices on drinks. English people tend to embrace this ‘win-win situation’ by drinking a lot, sometimes more than they can gracefully handle, developing what is called the ‘British drinking culture’. In contrary, Greeks seem to know their limits on drinking, so inappropriate behaviours are not encountered most of the times. Nevertheless, a major problem in Greek nightlife is the low quality alcohol drinks served in several bars and clubs. These drinks of impure alcohol can be dangerous as they can easily cause symptoms of intoxication to their consumers.

On the whole, the general atmosphere is stunning in both countries. English version of nightlife offers modern clubs of high standards and cheap drinks of good quality. People are determined to drink and dance until they reach their limits and even the most mediocre clubber will enjoy a night out. Greek venues have only recently started paying the necessary attention to their settings, but atmosphere has always been warm, with the natural beauty of the country being the highlight of the décor. Greece, known for its endless summer nights, trips the visitors into a celebrating version of nightlife, which they are surprised to find out that ends around 10am.

La Rosa Negra Latin Club – Thessaloniki, Greece

Journalistic Writing: Review

La Rosa Negra Latin Club; A trip from Thessaloniki to Latin America

The city of Thessaloniki is becoming a multinational place and La Rosa Negra Latin Club is validating this appraisal. Bachata, tango, salsa and marenge are only few of the rhythms people can dance in this upbeat Latin club.

First on the list of its advantages is its spacious dance floor, which gives the customers the opportunity to dance freely, avoiding to crowd with other dancers. Another major advantage is the service. Stuff members not only serve customers with a wide smile, but they are more than willing to give a hand with dancing to people not familiar with the steps. The atmosphere, giving the sense of a trip to Latin America, is sealed with the delicious cocktails offered.

On the negative side, if you are planning to drive there by car, try to arrive in the area in advance in order to find a parking spot. The club does not provide parking spaces.

Matter Club – Thessaloniki, Greece

Journalistic Writing: Review

Matter Club; Exquisite Décor and Clientele do Matter

A rather fresh choice has arisen in the night scene of Thessaloniki.

Matter Club seems to be placing in top ranks of the clubbing list, since its opening two months ago. Situated in the city centre, near the port, is easily accessible by car or public transport.

Regarding to its design and general appearance, much attention has been given to details. Owners’ attempt to generate a glamorous style is obvious right from its entrance. The well designed lighting, the recess on the walls and the automatic stairs leading the customer to the main space are some of the features turning the club into the most elite option in Thessaloniki’s nightlife. Matter club also offers good and quick services, with stuff being polite, friendly and fast.

However, its prices follow its clientele and vice versa. The price of the drinks offered and the booking fees are considered to be high.

Cabal ‘City Chic’ Nightclub – Athens, Greece

Journalistic Writing: Presentation on Magazine
(Disclaimer: This is a fictitious magazine article, based on real information.)

Cabal ‘City Chic’ sets new standards on clubs’ décor and parties

Cabal Nightclub is the newest option in Athenian nightlife.
Hosting three different club parties and having a unique high standards decoration, has easily reached the reputation of already well-known clubs.

Every Wednesday, Cabal nightclub hosts the M.V.P – Most Valuable Party, organized by the White Mask crew.
On Thursdays a Panic Records music company, mounts the DOPE party, dedicated to R’n’B and hip hop music.
On Fridays, one of the most popular parties in Athens, Overdose, takes place with video animations, visual effects and special cartoon guests framing nights of pure fun.

Apart from its parties, Cabal also stands out for its actual ‘City Chic’ decoration, which combines perfectly progressive and minimal features. Lighting synchronized with the sound system as well as the huge led screen behind the dj booth create an aggressive atmosphere risen to the standards of European clubs.

Dream City (DC) Club-Restaurant – Athens, Greece

Journalistic Writing: Newspaper Article
(Disclaimer: This is a fictitious newspaper article. However, names, quotes and facts stated are real.)

Dream City opened its gates for a unique New Year’s Eve Party

01/01/2013

Dream City, the biggest Athenian nightclub, celebrated New Year’s Eve with a spectacular party.

The event started at 12:30am hosted hundreds of people.

The atmosphere was magnificent and the music satisfied all kind of listeners.

The dj started with chilling tunes, moving to R’n’B and hip hop music. Later, the international music scenery changed to Greek, which led people cheering and dancing on tables and chairs.

“There are no words to describe this night,” said Dimitris Poporis, a 26-year-old customer. “Music and people are thrilling.”

Professional dancers placed on raised spots, special lighting and confetti explosions were some of the features that turned the night into the absolute clubbing experience.

The amount of people would be expected to cause some slowdown. However, Dream City’s staff offered high standard services to the clients.

“We couldn’t be more excited about the number of people attending our event. The entire team of Dream City will put every effort to make this night unforgettable to the customers.” said Thanos Kolokithas, the owner of the club.

Embrace Nightclub – Sheffield, UK

PR Writing: Blog for PR purposes

The three levels of clubbing perfection

Still thinking of visiting Embrace?

In an effort to enumerate reasons for visiting this club, let’s start with this: Embrace Nightclub is the biggest club in Sheffield, having every right to call itself ‘city’s only premier super club’. Being located in the heart of city near Sheffield’s City Hall, it is easily approachable on foot. Its uniqueness is based on its ability to satisfy the most demanding customers, as it spreads in three floors of different theme and music.

The ground floor is focused on R’n’B music, with a huge dance floor in the middle and a big dj booth of plexiglas. There are raised spots with professional dancers giving the rhythm to customers, while the appropriate lighting contributes to the atmosphere. The highlight of this floor is certainly the people. Since the specific level is focused on R’n’B and hip hop music, people who choose to restrict themselves at the ground floor are real fans of this kind of music. The dynamic of the crowd dancing and singing along gives the visitor the sense of attending a special R’n’B event.

The first floor is named ‘DeCuba’ making clear the Latin sway of this level. However, not only Latin music fans will enjoy their staying there as ‘DeCuba’ floor is a decoration masterpiece. Its inlay design, based on a Latin American theme, impress the guest right away. The floor is a simulation of an old cabaret, with a massive optical fibre chandelier covering the entire ceiling, velvet seats, and walls decorated with trims of relative style.

Finally, the second floor resembles a disco of the seventies, with a spacious dance floor around the dj spot. Disco-balls hover everywhere with the colorful lighting completing the image. For those who want to watch the crowd dancing, two balconies with lounge areas are provided. Music is exactly in the framework of a discotheque with funky songs and disco classics playing all night long. The people cheer, sing along and jive and a general atmosphere of fun and spree.

Sheffield might offer several options in nightlife, but Embrace nightclub is certainly one of the greatest. It is an example of a massive club of high standards and stunning decoration. It is recommended especially to international students or tourists that want to take a good taste of what a European club can offer to its customers.

Plug – Sheffield, UK

PR Writing: Customer Information
(Disclaimer: This is a fictitious customer information material, based on real facts.)

A music venue available for your nightlife needs

If you are in need of a nightclub that can host entertainment events as live performances, corporate events or even private celebrations, you have just found the place satisfying all your needs. Plug is a versatile venue able to accommodate any kind of events. From live concerts to birthday parties, Plug is able to turn your event into an unforgettable experience.

Our services:

Space and Capacity: Plug is a versatile venue combining three rooms: Live, Neutral and Earth. Each room can be used separately or combined with the other two. Plug has a capacity of 1,200people, but it can also host smaller events, such as live performances, corporate events or private parties.

Location and Parking: The club is located in Sheffield’s city centre, only a five minute’s walk from the lively West Street and 10 minutes away from the Peace Gardens. The club is also easily accessible by car. Parking is not an issue, as the club cooperates with the APCOA car park next to venue’s premises, offering parking spaces from just £2.

Staff: The staff members are being friendly, co-operative and fast. Customer service is always staff’s priority, with the members happy to help anytime. From handy cashiers to upbeat bartenders, the aim is to leave customers with smile. Security staff is politely strict, assuring that any unpleasant incidents will be avoided.

Inlay and other services: The clubs is decorated in graffiti style drawings that depict wires running around the walls. Lighting is one of the highlights as impressive light displays and lasers have been set up. Additionally, club looks after its smoking costumers by providing a massive outdoor smoking area covered with umbrellas.

Contact Us:
Webpage: www.the-plug.com

Forward Nightclub – Sheffield, UK

PR Writing: News Release
(Disclaimer: This is a fictitious News Release, based on real information. Names included are not real.)

Looking Forward to The Late Hours

For immediate release

Date: 10/01/2013
To: Sheffield Star, Sheffield Telegraph, Radio Sheffield, Yorkshire Post, Hallam FM, Forge Radio, SHUlife Magazine

On behalf of: Forward Nightclub
Author: Erasmia Nefeli Kritikou – nefeliness@hotmail.com

Forward Nightclub is pleased to announce a change in its opening hours.
The club will now remain open from midnight until 5am on Fridays and 6am on Saturdays.

Forward Nightclub decided to make your nights longer,
closing later than any other club in Sheffield!

“We are very pleased that we are able to make this change” said Anthony Smith, the 36-year-old manager of the club.
“We strongly believe that young people will embrace this initiative.”

Every Friday night will be dedicated to the most popular dance anthems.
Saturdays will host parties focused on R’n’B, Hip Hop, UK Garage and House tunes.

Prices: Vodka mixers, alcopops and beers starting at 2£

Entrance fee: 5£ / 4£

Information about the club:
Forward Nightclub is located in the heart of Sheffield, easily reached on foot. On the inside, the entire club is a big dance floor. Seating areas are placed along the walls, offering also a VIP lounge at the back of the club, which can be booked for private parties. Decoration is modern with bright colours on walls and special lighting.

We are looking Forward to enlarge the night in night-life…

If you have any queries about this press release, please contact:

Forward Nightclub

Webpage: www.forwardsheffield.com
Facebook page: Forward Nightclub

### END ###