Ice Palace (NYC)

and..............DJ Frank Hulihan...........Frank Hulihan closed the Ice Palace on a Sunday night back in 82.....or 83 not sure...

I attended the Ice Palace once, in March of 1982. I remember the "jagged neon" decor and there was a Magician, with a drag-queen "assistant", who came out during a break in the music.

I think this one, on 57th, was actually called the "Ice Palace 57" as there was another "original" Ice Palace--on Fire Island, perhaps?

Well then. . . You're just gonna LOVE this story, entitled. . .

"Mom's Night at the
Ice Palace"

I first went to the Ice Palace in December of 1977. I had just come out in the gay life a month before-at 20 years old.

The first club I wound up in is also long gone-Gables on 7th Avenue South. People there were excited about a brand new club on 57th Street. It sounded great, & one week later wasted no time in getting there the following Friday or Saturday. Of course it was early (couldn't wait!) & was able to see the whole spanking new place before it got crowded. To this day, I remember that the then new "Close Encounters" theme (Meco disco version) was playing. From that point on, that became my main place-even during the big snowstorm of January 1978 (Remember throwing up into a snowdrift on 57th Street in front of Boltons!)

But the night I remember most took place one year later, in December of 1978. My Mom, always the life of the party, had taken to disco music quite well. I had also just told my parents I was gay. My mom was curious about the places I went to (especially when she heard me enthusiastically talking about them on the phone) so what better way to have her experience all this once and for all at none other than the good ol' Ice Palace!

She bought a new dress for the occasion (She was also 56 at the time), & we took the train in from Brooklyn. It had started to snow, & she started getting nervous. I told her she'd love it-and love it she did-say, a little too much.

We went down the stairs as The Salsoul Orchestra's "Christmas Jollies" album was playing. She too, thought the place looked great, & within an hour I introduced her my new friends. (She still remembers a guy named Bernie (from Staten Island) who was more than eager to hold her purse while she danced!

At some point during the night, she said "Why don't you go dance with your friend Bill. I'll stay here & talk to the others." OK, I thought. I went out on the floor, & after about a half an hour I told Bill I was a little worried, & that we should head back to look for her. We started crossing the floor, when all of a sudden Bill put his arm out in front of me & said, "Uh-you don't want to go over there right now. Let's dance again." Knowing that he obviously WANTED me to see what was going on, I proceeded towards the main entry point of the dancefloor. What my eyes beheld I wasn't prepared for.

There, standing up on the built in seating, was my Mother. She had her eyes closed, gyrating to the music-with something burning in her hand! She never even smoked cigarettes! There was a crowd of people encircling her, looking up & clapping to the music. At this point, Maw sees me, and, while still gyrating, says: "That's right Jay, that's right-your mother's high, baby, your mother's high!!! I just took a. . . .I just took a. . . . " (She then bends down to ask some guy what she just took) "Oh, yeah, yeah, that's right. I just a toke, man.. . .a toke!!!!!"

I was dumbstruck. The crowd went hysterical as I tried to coax her down from her little stage. Baby Jane was never like this, I thought. Then everyone started laughing-it had all been a joke! Nonetheless, I told her that I think we both had enough & we should head home. Her reaction? "How old are you, anyway? If you want to go, then GO." This I couldn't believe. We ended up staying until closing, took the train & got home at around 5AM. My father, sitting up in bed looking like Walter Matthau, asked my Mom, "So, did you make a fool out of yourself?" She snapped back, "I had a GREAT time. It's a damn shame YOU didn't take me to places like this!!!!!!"

As recently as maybe 4 years ago, someone came up to me at Splash & asked me how my mother was. My mother? I thought. I don't even know this guy. "Don't you remember?" he asked, "I was there that night at THE ICE PALACE!!!!!!!" Evidently, it was quite a famous night!

I will absolutely NEVER forget that night, as well as all the others I had in that fantastic place.

The Ice Palace was the very first Disco I had been to in New York the four of us Aussie guys went there in June 1982 We had a great time!. I remember the "jagged neon" decor. This is the match book cover I picked up there.

I also have the match book.......Maybe I will sell it on eBay one day.

MmmMmmMmmn,
My favorite disco. Ever. And the first one I stepped into in NYC. The most inspired and inspiring dj spinning I have ever heard in my whole music, dj, club life, (quite a while )
Frank Houlihan. God rest your soul.
You changed the way I listened to and thought about music. I grew so much after walking into the Ice Palace and been blessed to share in your talents while I was mostly on the dancefloor.
I only hoped we could have become friends.
I have never forgotten what an impact you and that fabulous disco had on my life.
Arriving from Kansas to the big apple. The Ice Palace was the first club I walked into. It was a Thursday and a Tribute to Donna Summer was happening. You couldn't tell how many Donna Summer look-a- ikes were there because all the walls were smoked glass mirrors (talk about a fairy tale high) I only thought I knew every Donna Summer record; Frank phased, phrased, re re mixed,extended, dropped out, and programmed like digital software would do on a powemac today. He made it look effortless. The crowd and staff were sexy hot (mostly, with the exception of some seniors working in the cashier window) an eclectic mix of cultures, young, mature, drag, some real women, Everybody could and would be excited and talk about the music and artists everytime I went there. It was important to know these things. It was an ice breaker if you wanted to start a conversation or really if you wanted to ask someone to dance.
I had to come back to New York at least twice a year from 1980 just to hear what Frank was playing. Of course I went to every other disco and punk club and heard all the legends. I always left a little early so I could end my night at the Ice Palace 57. Thats where it was at for me.
Peace,
eventidenyc

It was definitely called Ice Palace 57, at 57 West 57th Street, in NYC. It was one of the first gay discos I went to in New York when I lived there for the Summer of '81; I was 20 and it was my first summer in New York from Buffalo. I have a couple of matchbooks from there, too, along with some from Studio 54, and Area. I had a sublet apartment in a building on 54th on a short block between Broadway and Seventh. I don't know if the building is even there or not any more. It was kind of wild the way there was just the entrance on 57th Street - one of my favorite streets in New York - to the Ice Palace but you walked downstairs into this huge, great club. I'm pretty sure the disco at the Fire Island Pines was named the Ice Palace, too.
Great Memories, thanks,
Christopher

I laughed out loud and almost fell off my chair when reading x's memories about "mom at the Ice Palace." My mother, a tea-totaller, visited the Red Parrot with a group of us, just as curious as x's mom about NYC night life. Well, she didn't want the scotch I was having, so I had the bartender make her a brandy alexander. Before I knew it, she was dancing away with all sorts. Back to the Ice Palace: there was a very tall transvestite (who was very, very beautiful and quite convincing) by the name of Dixie who was a habitue of both clubs, and 54 as well. Mom was in the ladies john with Dixie and mentioned she was a friend of mine. One thing led to another and Dixie said, "Can I show you something, Betty?" In a nutshell, she ended up showing my mother her "big ten inch." A week later, at Sunday Tea at the Ice Palace, Dixie came up to me with a big grin on her face (and I swear that I'd believe anything this girl/guy would tell me, we were that close) and told me that not only did mom look, but she "touched the merchandise" to make sure it was real. There was nothing like the mayhem going on at the Ice Palace. I recall going in there early one Saturday morning on business, and I searched and searched around for Kevin, the manager at the time. Upon entering the kitchen, I noticed a small latin boy, buck naked, sitting in one of the huge stainless-steel sinks in the kitchen, where they'd rinse the glasses before they'd go in the dishwasher. He was fast asleep. I woke him, and told him, "you better not let Kevin see you like this. What happened?" He replied: "I don't give a f**k. He's the piece of sh*t that locked me in here last night and I gotta take a shower."

I love New York City and the disco decade. While pursuing an acting career in the city I worked nights in the clubs. I worked at exclusive private parties at Studio 54 yet my primary position was at the Ice Palace 57 since it's opening night through almost its closing. I had worked for the owner before at The Cowboy and Jimmy chose me to work at Ice Palace. Wonderful memories of many friends and the wildest non stop party in NYC which at the time was best in the world! I also enjoyed other fabulous clubs such as Red Parrot and High Rollers which were owned by the same innovative enterprising man while they were open. The DJ's were the best in the city and the entire crew was like family. Best regards to Jimmy, Lou, Klaus, Kevin, Jodi, Carlos, Frank, Steve, John, and the guys that made it happen at the Ice Palace. I moved to Los Angeles and I now live in San Diego. -Michael

For Michael and those who might pass by but don't have the time to post: Jim M -- the "Old Man" passed suddenly and painlessly in 1988 in his home in Florida. George Sardi (also, sadly, now deceased) let me know of his passing. I don't know about Lou or Klaus. As far as I know, Kevin C.'s fine (I still think fondly of little Michael - R.I.P. - when I think of Kevin); Frank H. is still in business; Jimmy P. is, I believe, still in NYC, as is Jim B. (of Ice Palace Fire Island). Funny you'd mentioned High Rollers 'cause I'd forgotten all about THAT. I never skated. -Paul.

Jimmy Merry was a dear friend and in many ways my first mentor in New York. May he rest in peace. When I wrote my previous post entry I had thought that indeed after all these years Jim may have passed away. The last communication I had with him was when he had moved to Florida. I was surprised to receive the answer regarding his death moments after sending mine. Thank you, Paul

Frank H (if referring to Frankie Hulihan) is in business in HEAVEN, however, he of course also passed on and has left us with his memories..

Apologies to Alex (and to Frank Houlihan). I read "Frank H" but SAW "Robbie L." Robbie worked for Jimmy a bit at Ice Palace 57 but more at Red Parrot than anywhere else. Spinner 333 feel free to contact me. Info on my profile herein.

If Robbie L is (Robbie Leslie) than yes, Robbie Leslie is still working and doing very, very WELL with his Djing...............Robbie did work many times at the Red Parrot....Especially one particular NEW YEARs EVE!~

just want to say i did not no that frank
passed away, he gave me the oportunity to play at the ice palace and i became a regular dj for a while untill the oportunity at crisco came up.frank were ever you are thank you, your friend DANNY RODRIGUEZ.

That is very sweet and unfortunately we did indeed lose an angel.........Frank Hulihan was a doll! I miss and thinkof him often..

From the time of its debut, my friend Rikki and I were regulars at the Ice Palace. During those years, we probably danced at every club in NY, but none held the promise of magic and excitement like the Ice Palace, (although Crisco�s certainly held some of the excitement)! Even Les Mouches, which was a members/guest only club, paled in comparison.

The Ice Palace was made up of the perfect ingredients�great location, incredible ambience, hot men and women, even hotter bartenders and bus boys, but the music was paramount. Frank Houlihan was a god among DJ�s, and could do no wrong. You knew it was Frank spinning, even before seeing who was in the booth. He just had a distinctive, extremely innovative style.

One of my favorite memories was the night of a Mardi Gras costume contest. With the help of some friends from Eve�s costumes, Rikki and I masqueraded as King Tut and Cleopatra. Although we lost first prize to an act with several costume changes, we were thrilled to have participated, and to some were the hit of the night. The framed pictures on my mantle are a wonderful reminder of that part of my life.

I no longer live in Manhattan, but am only an hour north. Each time I visit the city, whether consciously or not, I seem to pass 57th and 6th. Several years ago, I went into 57 West 57th Street, and asked if I could be taken downstairs. The only thing recognizable was the stairway. A sheet-rocked wall had taken the place of the dance floor, and the space was being converted into several small businesses. At first, it made me want to cry. But, if you draw on your memories, you can almost hear that fabulous music, as you walk down the stairs, and feel the anticipation of the excitement just before turning that corner to the dance floor.
I learned about life at the Ice Palace, made wonderful friends there, fell madly in love, and wished it would all go on forever.
For me, nothing since has had quite the impact on my life as this special club. Most of my friends are gone now, and I miss them every day. But whenever I feel blue, I put on the music and try and relive some of those nights, and think how lucky I was to have been a part of that time and the Ice Palace.

Well, I could not have written more "precious" words than "scarlet gypsy" has shared w/us..............Kudos for your touching story and for what it's worth.........."I share your memories, your affection, your detailed recollections and most of all, the spirit of those long gone beautiful club days!!!!!!!

Love and Kisses!

AG

Alex,
I worked two blocks from Cowboys, and was in there all the time. Do you remember Dennis, Dean, or Carlotta?
I also worked at The Ritz in the early 80's. I would love to know if any of that old gang is still around. Billy Brusca, Michael Morante, Mel (he later worked at Red Parrot). If you ever feel like reminiscing, feel free to email me.
Mary-Ann (Scarlet Gypsy)

Thank you, Mary-Ann aka Scarlet Gypsy for the touching tribute to the Ice Palace and the wonderful memories you inspired. You mentioned hot bartenders and busboys, well I was one of the waiters (two out of three ain't bad). I also worked at the Cowboy on East 53rd Street for Jim Merry. I replaced Dante who was the dark good looking guy who returned to Italy. When Jim opened the Ice Palace he chose me to come with him as one of the original crew who were all really great guys. Roger the other waiter at the Cowboy also came to the Ice Palace as did Dennis, Steve, and Klaus. Carlotta stayed on as the chef at Cowboy making the best burgers in New York City. I was recently informed in reply to my first post here that Jim Merry died at his home in Florida in 1988 and after being in touch with the source was told that Carlotta and others continued in the business. We were all dear friends and shared fabulous times together at the Ice Palace and other clubs like the Red Parrot through the decade. I now live in California and have met others of the staff in Malibu some years ago. We were like a family and I will always be grateful to have had the chance to work with such a beautiful group of friends. I loved them.

It's so lovely to see that after all these years, we hang onto special "magic moments" ala "the Erasure cover song" that make our lives twinkle at the thought of those glorious/glam days when such fusion of music, beauty, love and most of all FUN carried us through the days and nights...........Very dear and fond memories.........At the end, what we have and what we will take are those MEMORIES....................Ciao!

This is just wonderful!!! What a pleasure to come upon this site, and to see that many of us remain, all sharing these wonderful memories. We are all part of a very special family. By never forgetting those days we keep alive all those who are no longer with us. It certainly was an age of innocence...before AIDS, terrorism, and the harsh reality of life. Back then, in my wildest dreams, I would never have imagined I would be growing older without most of my sweet friends. I love them, and miss them every day.
If I could make a wish, I think I would plan a giant party, and EVERYBODY would be there. We'd all start out with dinner at Cowboys, (for some of Carlotta's incredible burgers), move on to the Ice Palace (with Frank Houlihan spinning), and end up at Crisco's until what I used to call the "Blue Hour". That was the special time of the early morning when the sky was a beautiful shade of indigo.
Wouldn't it be great to experience one more night like that? And to see everyone again?
And by the way...the waiters at the Ice Palace were the hottest in town! I always had a special place in my heart for Louie!
Love to you all,
Mary-Ann

Oh what a night that would be... Thanks for the acknowledgement regarding waiters at the Ice Palace. Lou would be happy to hear that you remember him after all these years. I worked the back half of the room with Jody near the DJ booth where we would often keep Frank company as he spun the best music mix in town. Maybe some innovative entrepeneur will arrange the ultimate disco reunion that you imagine! Best wishes to everyone. -Michael

Well, I must tell you all......I was Frank Hulihan's backup DJ for 2 years at the place he last spun, Chippendales on 61st and 1st Ave in NYC........Frankie was the resident DJ, Thursday's through Saturdays and after he got done playing we would all go to Tories.........Remember Tories! (Good ol' Morty...........Then on Sunday's we would wind up at Studio for John Blair's parties w/Robbie Leslie spinning...........Who was that drummer that used to play along in those days???? Anyway, I played very much in the Frank Hulihan style.......Remember that tribal percussion acetate that only Frankie use to play "Oleska..." Wow! great pre-tribal tribal song....Anyway, I would love to spin an evening of music dedicated to Frank Hulihan, since I knew him well and knew how, what and when he played what he played..................You folks are so generous with your fond and loving memories..........I treasure our threads and look forward to many more in the future and OF COURSE, boy what fun a REUNION would be...........................Who can remember Ice Palace songs, like Laura Branigan's "Solataire," Paul Parker's "Right ON Target..." Erotic Drum Band's "Touch Me Where It's Hot..." "Disco Circus' "Love Me, Over and Over again....." Bobby Thurston's "You Got What It Takes...." Carol Jiani's cover of "Ask Me..." Sinnanmon's "Thanks To You...." B&B Band's "All Night Long..." MBO & Klein's "Dirty Talk..." US/European Connection's "I'm Gonna Love You Baby, I'm Gonna Dance With You Tonight....BaBY Love..." Chaz Jankel's "Glad To Know You..."....Viola Wills' "Up On The Roof and If You Could Read My Mind....." Sharon Redd's "In The Name Of Love," and Frank Hulihan's FABULOSO mix with Love & Kisses' "You'll Never Know How Much I Love You...." A, the list goes on and on and I COULD SPIN all those SONGS in a REUNION with PLEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAsureeeeeeeeee.

Ciao beautiful friends!!!

Food for thought...
Why can't there be the ultimate reunion? A tribute to the Ice Palace...
Certainly, there are so many left in our family, we could make this a reality.
It might take some effort, but I think it could really be a possibility. It would just take some serious organization. This could be an entrepreneur's dream.
Every journey starts with the first step...
I'm ready.
Mary-Ann

I'm game. I have a place, a sound system and great accommodations nearby (although not in NYC; 1 hr 45 min away) www.asianfusion.net/szetok for venue details -- how many of you are out there?

Wow! I feel like the "origins" of something huge is taking place........Let's plan to plan this wonderful reunion! Sounds like we can make this a reality..........Maybe a "reality show" like a group of people planning a reunion....Ok, stop, let me pinch myself and come back to life.........for one, I hATE reality shows, but LoVe the reality that something like this could actually materialize, an ICE PALACE reunion.......

I can feel the excitement brewing!
Is it possible to move this idea to the Forum? I think the more exposure the better. If we are serious, people will have to be aware this could be a possibility, and also voice their interest.

Sounds great! Who wants to spherehead this effort...............I can make some CDs as prototypes for the music we want and we can start the contacting people efforts! sounds like fun........Maybe someone can contact LIGHTWOMAN (she made comments on Xenon) as she was the last light person for Frank........

Just moved this topic to FORUM under Promotions, .... Events & Parties etc. under new topic ICE PALACE REUNION. Please either post your ideas there or utilize my email address (above). Lookin' forward to hearing from you -- AlexGARCIA pls. email me. Thanks.

Well it seems that a lot of interest has developed during the past few days in actually having an Ice Palace reunion! Thanks for now moving the idea to the Forum as it would be more appropriate and indeed should maximize exposure. Anyway a dream conceived can be achieved! The Ice Palace was the hottest club in New York and it would be wonderful to have a party in its honor. It would truly be a beautiful event!

Well, it's a great idea and since I have never used the Forum, I would like to peek around and see what and how it is done....I am all ready to make this come true and certainly have all the records (the key records, I might add) of that wonderful glorious era that are ready for use......

I was beginning to worry no one was interested in an Ice Palace reunion. The first step is to make a guest list, and notify everyone that this is in the planning stages. This is where networking will be most important. We just need to spread the word...
As I said in my Forum post, I planned a very successful reunion for Great Aunt Fanny's, (a theatrical restaurant in NYC), and I am willing to devote time and energy to this idea.
Post your ideas at the Forum on this site so we can all stay in the loop.

Hi, this is Bernie-the owner of this site. I'm happy to see that so many former Ice Palace goers were able to hook up again after so many years because of this page. Must be a nice feeling after all these years.

A reunion certainly sounds possible if the word gets out. Please note that the forum/message board section of DiscoMusic.com is the more appropriate place to discuss and plan a reunion as well as reach a wider audience. A topic has been started at
http://www.discomusic.com/forums/viewtopic.php?t=8298
(Although the forums reside on the same site, it may require a seperate registration/log-in)

Please use that for all further discussions about a reunion and reserve this space for discussions on the history and DJs of the club. Thanks and best of luck on the reunion plans.

Hey Guys! Wow this is a hoot ! I stumbled upon this Completly by accident. I too was one of the original busboys. I started working at the Ice palace at the age of 17 ( I lied ) What an experience.I was known as Richie and Ice PAlace Staffers were like family Jim Merry was an amazing and VERY colorful boss to say the least but he treated his staff in ways that have stayed with me for years. Spinner! I have all the same memories and then some. ( cleaning those damn mirrors night after night ...ugh , finding all kinds of interesting things after closing, Drinks and other stiff with the boss after closing and the Bonuses ... nuff said ... ( grin) working till 4 going to the after hours and then getting up to go to classes . Where did we get the energy! Hey Scarlet Gypsey ( mary ann ) I too have fond memories of Louie (lol )God ! we were young.Id love to hear from staffers and regulars that are still here.Sadly, many of my best memories are of people that are no longer with us . As far as Klaus. He's living in LA and retired last I heard. Most every one else Ive lost contact with . Im a bay area resident these days but I get to NYC on business at least 2 to 3 times a year and every time I go I pass the old place and I smile. Good times where had by all . Feel free to write. Id enjoy the reunion Chase Connery
Aka Richie

One other thought, I dont see any mention of the D.J. Howard Merritt and his Boyfriend Jorge on lights. AMAZING work . Also lets not forget D.J.Sharon White also another amazing spinner. On a sadder note these are the names of Staff that I have heard passed that were not noted earlier:
Kevin Cahill(head busboy . later manager)
Carlos ( front bar)
Jeff (front Bar)
Jimmy Pisano( front bar)
Max Morales(coat check , waiter )
Jody (waiter)
Thought you'd all want to know

later, Chase

Some pretty big developments on the reunion front as many former staff and clubgoers of Ice Palace have been contacted so please visit this new forum post with updates at
http://www.discomusic.com/forums/viewtopic.php?t=8298

Does anyone know what happened to Lou?

Wasn't Roy Thode one of the DJ's there as well??? I remembered him. He also DJed at the Ice Palace in Fire Island in Cheery Grove. I remeber he od'ed on drugs there.....way back when.

When I was 19, I worked in a s***** NJ department store with a bunch of gay guys who I thought were "old" -- they were probably about 24. They somehow figured out that I was "curious" -- and they all thought I was a "butch number."

One night I got drunk with them at a str8 bar in NJ and the next thing I know I was on 57th street and going into a door, paying a guy $10.00, going down some steps and walking into an envelope of sound -- ABBA -- Lay All Your Love On Me. It was my first gay moment and I will NEVER forget it.

I became very popular there because back then (1980) I had Teen Beat cute looks and a nice body -- now I'm an old fart but I loved it.

Paul

I too remember Constance from New Dorp. She also hung out at SAL'S DISCO on Pineapple Street in Brooklyn Heights in the late 70's. She has some hot Puerto Rican friends named Alex,Louie,and Willy.They often went to apartment of a heavy-set fellow named Carmelo in the neighborhood after the bar scene. It was outrageous !!!!

I was 15 when I visited the Ice Palace in 1982...it cost $20 to get in and they gave you two coupons for any drink you wanted....i partied in the back, lying on a sofa, in the "rear room" until the place closed, which seems like it was after the sun came up...what a trip..Memories of the Ice Palace, 57 West 57th Street, NY NY

The Sunday Tea Dance @ Ice Palace.
6 bucks & 2 drink tickets before 6pm.
what a deal then one of the best DJ's in the city Frank H. (RIP). I Know because I was there every Sunday with my girlfriend at that time Cathy Allen,and then later Janet La flaca
and my friends from Jersey, Carlos, Silvio, Raul, Alex, Oscar,Ricky, Bonzie, Zebo, Nanze, Tony DJ(Socio),Ronnie his nephew, and Julio the other nephew, El Soca, Rene, The beaners from Jersey as Tony Smith From Xenon's babtize'd us with.
yes that was the great days.
And I had the great Honor to fill in for Frankie at Chippadales years later when he went to that great big disco heaven in the sky in 1986.
I wonder where you all are at these days. God bless you all
Ralph............

Hey Ralph the Architech.....Folks one of the best DJs ever, Ralph the Architech......Tremendous talent and a damm good PING PONG player at that....Hey, contact me, agarcia9@nj.rr.com.....

I have Frank Hulihan live performances if you are interested ARCHITECH!

The Ice Palace on 57th Street was a magical place.........Saturday nights, originally Bobby DJ and Frank Hulihan were the main attractions.....On Sundays, Frank Hulihan was the resident DJ, however, you could certainly hear Wayne Scott, Scott Blackwell, Henry Winslow and a slew of other "old school" maestros that were FIERCE............

Sunday's had a mixture of pure gay and pure straight folks who co-mingled in perfect HARMONY.............There was a guy at the door Dominic who looked like BIGFOOT from the Six Million Dollar Man TV series.........

The place was totally fierce! It had strobe lights flashing from the floor so when they flashed, YOU FLASHED....

The first time I went to the Ice Palace, Syvia's Automatic Lover was playing and Frank Hulihan mixed it into Boris Midney's "Baby Love (I'm Gonna Love you baby, I'm Gonna Dance with you tonight....Baby Love...........)

Totally off the wall......You could hear songs like, Paul Parker's "Right On Target," BB Band, "All Night Long....", Lisa's Disconet Mix of Jump Shout.....Eloise Whittaker's "Don't Turn Your Back On Love," "Time Bandits" "You've Got To Live It Up," Patrick Cowley's Disconet Mix of "Thank God For Music..." ah, the list goes on and on...............................

This was a magical place...I use to go on Sundays (The Tea Dance) for the last 4 years it was open and I never missed a Sunday..........You could hear, "Laura Branigan's Solatiare...."Oh Romeo's THESE MeMORIES, haunting me.....!!! Irene Cara's Flashdance....It's Raining Men played back and forth to enlongate the intro to screams on the dance floor.....

Those magical Pina Coladas.......So much to say about this magical "long lost" club.....

The Ice Palace closed and became a Black Club called "The Silver Shadow" owned by the folks who owned Bentleys and the Red Parrot......Originally the owners of the Ice Palace also opened The Red Parrot, however, they probably sold them both to new owners who were prime providers of Black R&B type clubs.....

The last night at the Ice Palace Frank Hulihan tore that club up..........He mixed like he never mixed in his entire life......He did a mix with Love & Kisses, You'll Never Know How Much I Love You and Sharon Redd's In The Name Of Love that you had to be there to hear...I don't have the proper language to to it justice, however, it was one for the record books...

You see, DJs back then, mixed for musical content, musical drama and an obvious collaboration of musical integrity....They did not have to think about all these stipulations, them came to them by osmosis....Djs knew what they knew...

Today being a DJ is totally BORING......You mix beats and at the end of the night, you could swear all you heard for 14 hours (if you stay that long) was one DAMM LONG SONG.............

Back then, you almost wanted to make a song list everytime you went to hear Robbie Leslie play at the Saint....You wanted to go to Vinylmania and Rock & Soul and buy all the records you heard because you could actually say you heard that song or this song...

Today, you don't have a clue what to say about what you heard..................

I am glad to have lived during the Ice Palace, Underground, Xenon, Studio 54, Palladium, The Saint, River Club, The Monster (in its hey day..) The original LIme LIght.....etc..................

I think that I must have been around 18 when I went to the Ice Palace for the first time and they were having a pomotion or contest for Blueboy mag.
Yes, that discreet entrance, the sign and that mirrored stairway(at least i think it was mirrored) just added to the anticipation and excitement. Coming from a small town in Ontario it was a pretty 'heady' experience, speaking of which not to mention the same on the dance floor!!!

I also have another memory of being there the year that Babs Streisand's movie 'the main event' was released and the title song was playing.....man what a trip it was to hear that song on such a great sound system. During that song I have a memory of a couple dancing together, a big body builder in a tank top and his girlfriend, who was very small. However, during the song one of her mules slipped off her feet and he bent down to right it so she could slip her foot back into it. I know, it is such a trivial moment, but that memory still sticks with me to this day, over 26 years later. What a place it was.... I will never forget it.
You're right alex, club music today is not the same and real dj'ing is a lost art. It sucks going out now, and remembering what used to be,at least in toronto anyway.

omg I was at ice palace 3 to 4 times a week. Me and my friend Pam were the ultimate f** hags. If you were really a person who hung out there you would know the hotest guy there Russell. He was a amazing dancer and danced all night usually doing the hustle. He also had a hot brother. We also hung out with paulie and I heard hes no longer with us. Its unfortunate he was a beautiful man who I had a huge crush on. nothing was better than New Years eve there and because we were regulars we didnt have to wait on line. Tony at the door had the hots for me. He was hot but at the time he was to old for me.But I must correct somebody who said it was $20 dollars to get in it was $10 and yes 2 free drink tickets. They were the best years of my life at that club. The music was the best in the city. Who needed to work out them days going to icepalace and dancing 3 to 4 times a week made for a great body. I will forever be gratefull to the many beautiful men there and there friendship. They were always generous and made a girl feel at home. especially when you just wanted to dance and have people make you feel special. I miss that club so much. Great people Great fun

Wanted where is Russell Spinelli and his brother Tony. Does anybody remember them?

Wow! they need to do a movie on this place.
It would be much more interesting than the 54 movie.

As a young and straight teenager from Union City, I went ot IP on the regular on Sundays. It was a great place to hear top music and meet plenty of women tagging along as hags. For the record, between 80-82, the price was $6 and two free drinks which made it a deal. Back then, the drink in vogue was "White Russian".

I was told the Lou Malavenda passed away but I have been unable to confirm
this. Lou was a good friend in the 70's
but I lost track of him when he worked in Altantic City. I only visited the Ice Palace once and it was an exper-ience I won't forget. Lou was like an "auntie" but he worked hard knew the business inside and out. I met Jimmy Murray only once when he moved to East Hampto for the winter and hated it.
Any news of Lou or memories would be appreciated.

someone wrote that ice palace 57 was at 57 west 57. if you go by there, that's an office building. i recall glass doors and having to go downstairs to get to the club. i think it was at 49 west 57, not 57 w57. i recall don vetter (the bouncer at the door) what a fun guy, and one of the DJs there created/produced the 12" disco single "workin' and slavin'". i loved that place! loved tea dances on sunday. made many friends there, everyone that went there (in the 70s) was very friendly. it was like everyone was your friend while you were there. i wonder what happened to the spanish guy named "raphael" who'd gave out a tarzan-like yell atop one of the carpeted platforms alongside the dance-floor.
�2008

This message is for the post by James D on June 4th.
I am Lou Malavenda's niece. I just wanted to let you know that he did pass away many years ago
( early 80's ) after he went to atlantic city. He was a wonderful man and the family misses him dearly. I would love to visit him in NY, but my fondest memory of him was when he would come to visit and take me to McDonalds or pick me up from school in his limo ( lol ) soooo Uncle Louie!
Thanks for asking

The Ice Palace was the very first gay bar I went to the very first time I went to New York. I believe it was the summer of '82 and I was fresh from Yazoo City, MS on a college art school trip! I remember dancing with the "Human League" and having the time of my life. It was during my "I'm so glad I'm gay that I don't know how to act" stage of my life so THANK GOD for the Ice Palace! Once I entered those doors, I KNEW how to act! Thanks for the memories!

I loved the Ice Palace Days!!! I was a coatcheck boy there and my brother Sid was a barback/tender at the one on the island also. Those were Great times in NY on 57th street, not far from Studio and all the other places. Anyone who was there during those times was a part of history and dicotegueing in the world greatest city. Nothing but good times and Beautiful people of All types. :-))))))

I just past the site today, were Ice Palace 57 stood, seems to be ages ago. It's a vacant lot now they tore the building down. Like Joe Franklyn use to say it got me started “down memory lane”. When I got home I turned my computer on and started playing from my Disco collection. Then I searched for others with similar memories. I found this website and read some of these and knew I was in the right place.
My first recollection of having been at the Ice Palace 57 was late 1977 early 1978. I got there from jersey with a couple of friends. We were all so young then, I was 15 or 16, but a seasoned veteran of the New York night scene.It was a Sunday afternoon and we stopped in Central Park first to Drink some beers and smoke some grass. We came up to the door as they were opening. The doorman Brian gave me the third degree about my age then let us in. I remember he use to ride a motorcycle in the summers. Sadly years later I heard about him dying of a heart attack jogging in central park. Price of admission was three $ per person and we each got a free drink ticket.
We stayed from opening till closing that night, about 10 hours or so. Great being that young, if I'm up past eleven now, it's a miracle. The great memories of that night are flooding my mind right now. However if there was one distinct memory that transcends all the others was the Music. My god! What an unbelievable experience. He played Tripping on the Moon by Cerrone he played the s*** out of Supernature too.
I thought I was in heaven, by then I had been too many clubs in the city but this was amazing what Frankie was doing on those Technick turntables. Funny thing about that night was. Paul Lynn the comedic actor was there. Famous then from being the center square on Hollywood squares. I saw him at the Ice Palace for the next few years on and off. Use to come in Rolls with different young guys each time. In the winters he wore a Fur coat to die for.
In addition to my weekly Sunday Tea Dance Visits. I was there for three New Years Eve Parties and three Halloween bashes. I’ll never forget the new years when Frankie as the clock was ticking midnight. He played the song Countdown and when it got to zero it all got quiet and he slipped Donna Summer's "Last Dance" on to start the Year. Wow! Ok gang like the poet said it's ok to visit the past, just don't bring a suitcase. Those are some of my memories of a great era in New York and very magical club Ice Palace 57. I think that magic will never be duplicated in New York again. When we were young and didn't give a you know what except dancing the night away. Ciao!

No I think it's another Manny,but I'm sure we ran into each other.Alina sounds familiar also,not Pedro or Juan.Hey in any case we are definitely survivors.
Those were good days we were young and didn't give a you know what.I just burned a CD of some great music from back in the day.Franky Houlihan would have been proud.I found some rare stuff I really don't hear anymore."For your Love" by Chilly "Revenge"by Revanche."Have a Cigar" by Rosebud,"Sentimentally is you" by Theo Vaness,"Tripin on the Moon" by Cerrone.
That was dance music not that techno crap that all sounds the same.Anyway good to hear from you pal be well.P.S I went to Union Hill in Union City.Only guy from town to get into Studio when it was Studio. Now I'm lucky if I stay up pass midnight.lol..

I beg to differ my high school friend because I also went to Studio when it was studio in 1978, 1979, also Xenon's and before all that Infinity's down on bleeker the best club ever.

and yes I am also lucky if I stay up past midnight,
but I still am a weekend warrior, its in my union city blood, I can not help it....lol.....
Ralph H. the architect of sound

This is Ariel (Glickberg) from Israel.I live and work on Haifa now but used to live in Brooklyn and came across this web-site today and do recognize some of these names and places from way back when. WOW...I remember James Pantytaygis and Fredweena and John Krysaaly,and Frankie and LIZ,too.Sadly,I do believe some of them have passed away.Me and my brother hosted pool parties from the gay crowd from Rhythms and IP-57 back in the 70's-with Donna Summer Disco music blasting and all!It was great to reminisce so about the old days when we were in our 20's and struggling with coming out and partying and all.Thankfully, it is better today.However,here in Israel it is still not as out in the open as the U.S.,Yyou know.

Those were the good old disco days.....and ICE PALACE-57 sure was a part of it!

It's wonderful to see so many people remembering the Ice Palace and the stories of their friends and the new friends they met, how fabulous Frank Hullihan was. But, let me stop you guys there and take you to the beginning.

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>THE ICE PALACE 57 <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
was named after the fab ICE PALACE in Fire Island both by >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>JAMES J MURRAY<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<

The first DJ to play at the Ice Palace was ROY THODE. The first lightman was WILLIE HERNANDEZ. The second night was ROY THODE and the lightman was JORGE VELADEZ. we 3 were also working at Ice palace in Fier island for many, many years, anyways, LOL From that point on, it was Roy for the first three years before him & jorge started working for the Saint and then sadly Roy passed away. Shortly thereafter George the lightman as well passed on. Trying to fill Roy's shoes came a series of wonderful DJs (the likes of Howard Merritt, Sharon White, Kevin Burke, Tony from Hulas in PA and the list goes on). Then Frank came along from the Limelight on Christophers Street. So this is just to polish peoples memory a little. Frank was not the first DJ but, the last, him and Kevin Daily were the two to close the Ice Palace after a ten year run, may they both rest in peace. What people fail to remember is, that though the music took you on a wonderous journey, everyone overlooks the decor and LIGHTSHOW played a large impact on the atmosphere and the groove to the music. Those lights going on at high density speeds as you shimmered on the dance floor to the pumping base sound of Casablanca's music or Preludes Music and the incredible sounds of Disconet who made some of the most incredible remixes. Then all of a sudden you STOP, you open your eyes, the lights are flashing, the beautiful orange neon collumb in the middle of the dance floor spun you like the tornado in the wizard of Oz. Who gave you all these effects? The LIGHTMAN standing next to those wonderful DJs for ten years, from the first night it open til the last night, That person was me.((B4 going to the Ice Palace maybe you guys may remember me from the bearfoot boys on 39st & 2nd ave, LOL, wait you all are to young LOL))

As for me, Iam still alive and living comfortably in the Bronx. Please feel free to reply, still today I dream of the nights and wish I could lived them all over again.............

For as much as I loved the music and thought the sound was great. I am guilty of overlooking the lighting guy myself. But, being a dj I know the importance of this relationship. I was in awe of the lights in the Ice Palace. It really didnt matter if I was using drugs. I could'nt believe how many lights were crammed up in that low ceiling. The walls of tinted mirrors were a mind-f***. The black-outs. and strobes, and the neon, (which unfortunately you dont see in clubs anymore)the constant moving of the slow scanners in the walkways and against the walls. There was mood lighting for slow/r&b disco like...You'll never know- by High Gloss or Night Room- by The McCrary's
or crazy high energy ala Native Love by Divine.
Even if the club was slow the lights looked amazing!
I know the design was by Lite-lab and I used to have a catalog from them with a great photo of the Ice Palace 57 showing the stainless steel risers with the led lights outlining the seating. There was really not a bad spot to be in the entire club. It looked amazing from anywhere you were dancing or lounging. It was very well thought out and executed. There is nothing like it anywhere today.
I only wish that some of us had pictures we could post. How about you lightman did you get any photos of our fabulous work. If I use the Ice Palace as a comparison to any clubs that followed I have only set up myself for dissapointment. I think the Ice Palace should be re created in a virtual reality world. Imagine... a $6.00 cover with two complimentary cocktails to one of the chicest gay clubs of all time.
The craft of the light persons at the Ice Palace 57 were amazing. It was an integral part of why we loved it so much, Your work was incredible. I actually remember what the lights were doing on certain songs. I didnt know what happened the night I fist heard Diana Ross " I'm coming out" . The entire club went dark and everytime the drum roll came up on the intro the strobes would flash from all around you on the floor. I just still cant believe there were strobes at your feet.
It was the best!
By the way, The owner of the original Lite Lab has a design company in NY I believe, I can't remember his name.
Patrick

I was a regular at Ice Palace 57. I remember the Sunday T's, which were absolutely FANTASTIC (an understatement). I remember meeting Ethel Mermon there, when she signed copies of her disco 12 inch. I remember the music......oh my God the music.....Frankie Hulihan was the best f****** DJ the world has ever seen. One mix I remember he did, was with the song "Push Push In The Bush"...he took a verse and multiplied it with the three turntables, and made itsound like Eagles screaming...GOD HE WAS FANTASTIC. (Anybody have chills going down your spine yet??) Anyway, when I learned that he passed away, I was very, very saddened, indeed. Rest in peace, Frankie and thank you for putting so much joy in peoples lives.

I was a 20 year old (straight female) college student doing an internship for fashion design in NYC the spring of 1981. One of our (gay, we suspected guy) friends came to visit for a week and promised to take us girls to a super hot disco. We'd been to the "Peppermint" and a few others often walking for miles 'cause we were afraid of the subway at night and couldn't afford a cab.

Our friend's name was Dino and he had quite the rep as a party boy with all the best party "favors". He told us to meet him and his friend there.
We found the door and proceeded down the stairs to a reception stand. We couldn't see inside at the point and paid our $5.00 cover charge. $5.00 was huge for us, but we got two free drinks!

As soon as we went inside, we knew it was a gay bar. We sheltered young ladies were shocked at men openly kissing and making out on the sofas around the room, but determined to get the free drinks we had paid for.

It was my first exposure to the gay culture. Even though we knew Dino liked guys, I'd never seen two guys together. Funny, now, how I celebrate same sex weddings and welcome love in any combination of humans.

I always wondered how long the Ice Palace was open. I often also wonder if Dino is still with us. He led a fast life and any number of things could have taken him, but in my mind he will always be the young and fun life of the party.

If anyone knows a "Dino" that went to school in Wisconsin in the early 80's let me know. I'm not even sure if that was his real name.