In the heart of a city that never sleeps, a vibrant constellation of queer joy has been steadily rising over the past four years. That constellation is Scope Tonight, an events production company born from the simple yet profound desire of a group of friends to carve out space for queer women, transgender, and nonbinary individuals to connect, celebrate, and simply be.
What began as a series of intimate pop-up gatherings has blossomed into a powerhouse of queer nightlife in New York City, a testament to the unwavering dedication of its founders and the palpable need for such a space within the community.
The genesis of Scope Tonight is a story deeply intertwined with the isolating experience of the COVID-19 pandemic lockdowns. For Katie Giattini, Vanessa Carlone, Norah Pinkhas, Sydney Levine, and Salima Kazab, their friend group became a lifeline, a crucial anchor in a sea of uncertainty. It was within this close-knit circle that a powerful idea began to take shape.
They recognized a void, a yearning for spaces where queer women, trans, and nonbinary people could gather authentically, free from the often-heteronormative or male-centric dynamics of existing nightlife. Scope Tonight was conceived from this shared desire, a beacon promising connection and celebration.
The name itself, while not explicitly stated as such, carries a subtle nod to the celestial, a theme that playfully weaves through the fabric of Scope Tonight’s events, often with a loose zodiac influence. This adds a touch of whimsy and intrigue, inviting attendees to explore the multifaceted nature of queer identity.
The journey from those initial, smaller pop-up events to the vibrant, well-attended gatherings of today is a story of organic growth fueled by genuine community spirit. Each event was a step forward, a learning experience, and a reaffirmation of the vital role Scope Tonight was beginning to play in the lives of queer New Yorkers. Word spread organically, drawn by the promise of an inclusive and joyful atmosphere, a space where individuals could truly let their guard down and connect with like-minded people.
This journey recently culminated in a significant milestone, the celebration of Scope Tonight’s fourth anniversary. The party, held at The House in Bushwick, was nothing short of a resounding success, drawing a crowd of 220 attendees, a vibrant tapestry of queer identities coming together in joyous celebration. The energy in the room that night was palpable, a testament to the community that Scope Tonight has so carefully cultivated over the years.
