Maestro is a documentary about Larry Levan, the legendary DJ and resident of New York’s Paradise Garage, and the underground club culture that surrounded him. Through interviews, archival footage, music, and the voices of those who were there, the film explores Levan’s influence on DJ culture, house music, disco, and the evolution of the club as a space for experimentation, identity, freedom, and connection.
More than a portrait of one DJ, Maestro captures a pivotal moment in New York nightlife. From the transformative sound systems and marathon dance floors of the Paradise Garage to the wider community that helped shape modern dance music.
For E.C.H.O. Fest, we’re bringing the film to St. John’s as a chance to revisit an essential piece of club history and experience the story of one of the DJs who changed what it meant to play music for a room.
Maestro contains discussions and archival depictions relating to:
* Recreational drug use and drug culture
* Unprotected sex and sexual health
* HIV/AIDS, illness and death
* Homophobia and discrimination
* References to suicide and the deaths of members of the club community
* Strong language
The documentary explores the underground New York nightlife and LGBTQ+ club culture of the 1970s and ’80s, including both its celebratory and more difficult aspects.
For more information on E.C.H.O Fest click here.