When you think of St Paul’s, your mind probably doesn’t associate the historic cathedral with clubbing and concerts.
But that’s all about to change.
In a move nobody saw coming, St Paul’s has just announced a new four-year partnership with fabric nightclub in Farringdon.
The two London spots will be teaming up on a programme of gigs and music events, featuring ‘contemporary artists from different musical backgrounds and disciplines’.
It follows ‘successful’ music events fabric held at the Cathedral in the last few years, including a Patti Smith performance and one by Australian singer RY X.
Already, there has been some backlash to the partnership, with some likening the idea to ‘dancing on graves’, as many notable figures, such as Lord Nelson, are buried in the crypt below the Cathedral.
But St Paul’s and fabric insist that there will be ‘no raving in the pews’ as they intend for the events to be fully seated.
A spokesperson for St Paul’s told The Telegraph that, at the start of each performance, the canon of the church will tell ticket-holders to remain seated.
This has done little to appease those of the Christian faith, though, with many still outraged by the idea of a sacred space being used in this way.
On Instagram, @carmen.zs said: ‘It should be the home of prayer choirs and orchestras, not appropriate for a religious setting designed by Sir Christopher Wren. Anglicans have lost their way.’
While @rakhees_hyerlife felt it was ‘blasphemy’, and over on TikTok @dazquests commented: ‘Disgusting and shameful to the church for allowing this.’
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However, not everyone is opposed to the idea, with @stoicmando pointing out that the Cathedral will have ‘the best acoustics’, and @totalsxok4m posting: ‘Cool, just need to take care with the building.’
Others thought it was ‘iconic’ and a ‘fabulous’ idea, saying events held in churches often feel more atmospheric and ethereal because of the setting.
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The first event is scheduled to take place on October 29, with the artist to be announced soon.
Speaking about the partnership, Sandra Lynes Timbrell, the director of visitor engagement at St Paul’s Cathedral, said the Cathedral is ‘delighted’ to be curating a programme of ‘exceptional’ concerts with fabric.
‘These events showcase world-class talent and create unforgettable experiences for audiences within one of London’s most iconic spaces,’ she explained.
‘We hope the partnership will introduce new visitors to the Cathedral, encouraging people to discover and engage with this historic building in new and exciting ways. We look forward to inviting people to experience the unique atmosphere that live music can create within this remarkable setting.’
And Cameron Leslie, the co-founder of fabric, added: ‘It’s an extraordinary and unexpected coming together of two very different parts of London, and we’re looking forward to building on the success of the events we’ve already held and creating something genuinely special and befitting of this incredible space.’
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