“Pranks were a hallmark of the club kids, a youth subculture that emerged in New York’s club scene after an extravagant period of nightlife ended with the stock market crash of 1987,” writes Ernie Glam in the catalogue to 'Fabulousity'. Cheap tricks, thrift-store ensembles, ‘attention shifting’ screams, and party drugs: the history of the New York Club Kids is told through photographs and ephemera in this one night only exhibition. ‘Fabulousity’, showcases previously unseen photographs by Alexis Dibasio, capturing the notorious Kids’ ringleader Michael Alig among others.

Dibasio’s photographs document a club look so unique it became a stereotype: “A skinny young man or woman with clown make up, a wig or hat, platforms, a lunch box and a body-hugging unitard or hot pants and a stretch t-shirt.” A limited edition catalogue, published by Wild Life Press, presents Dibasio’s images alongside ephemera from notorious clubs such as Tunnel and Limelight. “Word spread about the mayhem through 1988 and 1989,” explains Glam in the catalogue foreword, “attracting like-minded characters that eventually piqued the interest of competing club owners who offered bigger budgets.”

‘Fabulousity’ may look back on the heady origins, but the scene itself still thrives today. Club Kid founders such as Kenny Kenny host weekly parties with today’s major personalities such as King Vulcanus Levy. How fabulous.

Fabulousity: A night you’ll never forget…or remember! is published by Wild Life Press