In Conversation with NSFW – “Pride Is And Always Will Be A Protest”

We spoke to NSFW, one of Dublin’s leading LGBTQ+ parties, on redefining queer club culture in the Irish capital. Founder L. Ivory discusses the party’s ethos, the origins of NSFW, his definition of Pride, and much more ahead of their landmark Pride 2024 celebration with Rathaus at The Grand Social on Saturday.

Dublin’s NSFW, an acronym for, “Not Safe for Work,” has become a pillar of the city’s LGBTQ+ parties, based on the essential tenets of any decent queer party: inclusivity, diversity, and complete freedom of expression. Since its inception, NSFW has been a melting pot for Dublin’s LGBTQ+ community, welcoming regulars, newcomers, and those who simply like dancing in a dark and smokey ballroom. Founder L. Ivory has built a refuge for diversity, carving out a radically safe place that encourages self-expression, fetishes, and kinks in an environment where everyone can be themselves without fear of judgment or discrimination.

For those who have not yet experienced NSFW, the message is simple: come as you are, and be prepared to dance, connect, and celebrate in an environment that genuinely represents the spirit of inclusion and freedom. The party’s cult-like following speaks for itself. They’ve built more than just a club night; they’ve established a communal hub and family.

We spoke to spoke to founder L. Ivory ahead of his Pride 2024 event, Renaissance in collaboration with Rathaus.

Can you tell us more about the name NSFW and how it represents the party?

NSFW which means not safe for work is a well-known term for explicit content or something. A viewer may not want to see.  I feel it represents the party in letting people know that this is a queer fetish party and a place of freedom of expression. 

How would you describe an NSFW party to someone who’s never been to one?

NSFW is queer fetish party for those who haven’t been it’s become such a diverse space amongst the LBTQ+ community and allies. Our crowd brings together a broad range of the community to come together and express themselves in a non-judgmental environment, to be themselves and let loose. We have a strict no-discrimination policy and cameras are banned which we feel really helps people go wild.

What is the music policy at NSFW, and how does it reflect the vibe you’re looking for?

The music policy at NSFW ranges from high-energy house to groove techno, I  have had some amazing artists with us over the past 2 years + and I always love to see artists bring their own added flavour to our dancefloor, from local to international acts I’ve been blown away by the talent behind the decks in that short time.

Is NSFW influenced by other parties, and if so, who and how?  

NSFW is influenced by many queer parties across Europe, I felt international DJ acts mixed with locals along with showcasing queer performers/dancers were missing here in Dublin and I’ve taken pieces of that from clubs I’ve been to for years across Europe and pushed it here.

How would you describe Dublin’s queer dance music scene right now? 

I think Dublin’s queer music scene is very strong at the moment this year for pride is amazing to see the quality of events in the city, it really is a melting pot of talent amongst the queer community.

If you could change something about the Irish dance music scene, what would it be? 

I think it’s the same thing on all of our lips, the closing times are still such a struggle here in Dublin and with all the hard work done by the Give Us The Night campaign hopefully, something will change.

What does Pride mean to you?

For me Pride is and always will be a protest it’s about remembering all those who have paved the way before us and continuing that on as we move forward as a community. 

What can attendees expect from your collaboration with Rathaus this Saturday to celebrate Pride 2024?

Following the success of last year attendees can expect the hottest and wildest Pride Party in Dublin. RENAISSANCE – embrace the spirit of rebirth as we celebrate love, freedom, and queer joy. Immerse yourself in the opulence of the Renaissance era – regal, flamboyant, kinky, extravagant. 

You can purchase final tickets here.