Staff WriterIt’s been two decades since Big Dish Go (BDG) first emerged on the Dublin club scene, and now the iconic night returns for a special 20th-anniversary celebration at Centre Point Club this Friday.
For those familiar with BDG’s legacy, this is more than just another club night—it’s a moment to reflect on its role in shaping the city’s underground music culture and a chance to reignite its torch for the future.
The event boasts a heavyweight lineup with David Holmes making his BDG debut and Ivan Smagghe, a six-year resident and long-time collaborator, returning to the fold. Together, they’ll be spinning back-to-back all night long, promising a celebration worthy of BDG’s illustrious history.
From the Basement to the Big Stage
Founded in 2005 by Conor Feeney and a group of like-minded friends, BDG was conceived as a creative outlet and an alternative to the mainstream club scene. “We wanted to do something a bit different in Dublin,” recalls Conor. “It wasn’t just about booking big names—it was about creating a platform for emerging Irish talent and pushing the boundaries of what a club night could be.”
At its core, BDG has always been a labour of love. Conor’s brother Gavin Feeney joined him as a co-resident DJ, while their brother Alan Feeney contributed to production and rallied punters for the nights. Long-time business partner Robbie Ryan also played a pivotal role in building BDG into a cornerstone of Dublin’s nightlife. “Robbie had this incredible energy,” Conor says. “I’ll never forget him grabbing me at a packed night when we booked the Housemeister, and him saying, ‘I think this is what it feels like when you win the World Cup.’” Conor: “I think he was right”
Milestone Moments
Over the years, BDG has hosted an enviable roster of talent, from international legends like Andrew Weatherall, Surgeon, and Luke Vibert to homegrown Irish heroes. Some nights have become the stuff of Dublin club folklore. The 3rd birthday, Robbie and Conor dubbed “The Holy Grail”, featured Andrew Weatherall and Ivan Smagghe in a 6-hour back-to-back set that captured everything BDG stood for: fearless, genre-defying music in a packed, electric atmosphere.
Another standout moment was the final night of Dublin Electronic Arts Festival (DEAF), where Surgeon and Irish techno mainstay Fran Hartnett closed out the city’s iconic festival with a powerhouse performance under the BDG banner.
The Spirit of BDG
Beyond the music, BDG’s ethos has always been about creating a space where anything feels possible. “We never wanted to stick to one sound or one vibe,” says Conor. “It was about giving the DJs the freedom to dig deep into their collections and play what truly mattered to them.” This open-minded approach led to unforgettable sets from regulars like Mark Archer (Altern-8), Richard Fearless (Death in Vegas), and Keith Tenniswood (Radioactive Man).
The night also nurtured its share of rising Irish stars and fostered collaborations with other promoters and labels across the scene. BDG’s side projects, like Bigwar with (Teknowarfare) and Modern Magic Records with (Aaron Costello), further showcased this dedication to innovation, combining events with a record label to push fresh talent and ideas.
A Night to Look Ahead
Next Friday’s event isn’t just about looking back—it’s about starting a new chapter. With David Holmes headlining for the first time and Ivan Smagghe returning as a key figure in BDG’s story, the night promises to encapsulate the energy and ambition that defined the past 20 years. “David’s one of those artists who’s constantly evolving,” says Conor. “To have him join us for this milestone is a real honour.”
As for the future, BDG is keeping things open but focused. Conor and Gavin plan to host a few one-off events each year and take their DJ game back on the road. “We’ve never been about quantity—it’s always been about quality,” Conor explains. “Whether it’s one night in Dublin or somewhere further afield, we want to keep doing what we’ve always done: creating unforgettable moments.”
Alan has also been working tirelessly behind the scenes to help shape Centre Point Club into Dublin’s and Ireland’s premier clubbing destination, making it the perfect venue for BDG’s highly anticipated return!
Join the Celebration
Big Dish Go’s 20th Anniversary at Centre Point Club isn’t just a party; it’s a celebration of two decades of music, memories, and a community that’s kept the spirit alive. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the BDG experience, this promises to be a night to remember—and one that will undoubtedly set the stage for the next chapter.
“Big Dish Go has always been about more than just the music,” says Conor. “It’s about the people, the atmosphere, and the idea that every night could be something magical. Here’s to 20 years—and many more to come.”
You can purchase tickets here.
