When one mentions Berlin's nightlife, it's impossible not to talk about KitKat. A venue that has become emblematic of the city's liberal spirit and unrestrained ethos, KitKat is not just a club but a cultural institution.
Founded in the early '90s by Austrian pornographic filmmaker Simon Thaur and his partner Kirsten Kruger, KitKat was initially launched as a haven for sexual freedom and expression. Named after the 1930s Babelsberg Studio film, "Kitty and her Beloved," the club has always retained a touch of cinema, with an aura of hedonistic drama.
Located near Heinrich-Heine-Straße, KitKat boasts an architectural alchemy of old and new. Part of the space is built amidst the ruins of an old theatre, adding to its unique ambience. Dim lights, cavernous halls, an indoor pool, and an outdoor garden create an environment that feels both ancient and futuristic.
But it's not just the physical aesthetics that make KitKat unique; it's the people and their attire, or often the lack thereof. The club is famously known for its dress code: anything goes, but the more avant-garde and revealing, the better. Leather, latex, and other fetish-wear are regular sights.
While many associate KitKat with techno, given Berlin's status as the techno capital, the club offers a broad musical spectrum. From trance to tech-house, gothic to electro, the sounds cater to a wide audience. Yet, it's the monthly "Gegen" party that draws the most diverse crowd, merging techno with queer culture in a vivid celebration.
The essence of KitKat lies not in its music or dress code but in its principles of tolerance and open-mindedness. It stands as a monument to Berlin's ethos of "live and let live." Despite its reputation as a libertine playground, consent and respect remain paramount. Everyone is welcome, as long as they come with an open mind.
KitKat is more than just a night out; it's an experience that encapsulates the essence of Berlin's spirit. It's a space that defies convention, challenges societal norms, and offers a sanctuary for those looking to explore the boundaries of their desires and identities. For those brave enough to step into its realm, KitKat promises a night like no other.