As part of our mini interview series with nightclub managers and owners, we caught up with Ryan Keary from Switch to talk about what it’s like to own a nightclub and what’s on the cards for Switch.
So who actually owns Switch then?
It’s me and Peter Toland from DBP, Rich Gilbert from Café Parfait and Gary Bennetton from Orange Rooms. It’s actually a quality team, we all get on and bring different things to the party.
Ryan (on the left) with the Wealdstone Raider
What’s your favourite type of night to be in charge of?
Our GM is in charge of all our nights, luckily we get to enjoy them as much as we want!
Enjoying a good night in Switch
What are the biggest highlights of being a club owner?
It’s got to be being able to introduce people to new music. All the owners have different roles, I’m the booker – so I get to book the DJs and its very satisfying being able to help run a fully musically minded Saturday night.
When MK made a surprise visit to a Groove Armada show at Switch
What’s the most annoying thing about being a club owner?
Biting your lip – the idea of the customer always being right is bullshit – especially when they’re drunk! I’ve also been told regularly that I’ll ‘get sacked’ or met numerous ‘owners’ of Switch whilst in smoking area – but that stuff makes me genuinely smile – I just nod and apologise most times!
Another surprise visit to Switch, this time from Toyboy & Robin and Charlie Sloth
What’s WH/Switch/DBP planning to do next?
We’ve got Snoop Dogg definitely, definitely coming to Southampton!
Who’s the best DJ you’ve ever booked?
BEST DJ I’ve ever booked – technically DJ EZ – there is no one better, I always make sure I stand behind him and watch during his set, it really is jaw dropping what he can do. Best DJ musically, for me, Richy Ahmed – he’s going to have a huge 2015 – I like house music like everyone else, but he has the thumping bass line beat to his music which keeps the dance floor interested throughout his set.
Thanks for chatting to us Ryan, we can’t wait for a night in Switch after exams!
Check out our interview with the Manager of Jesters here, look out for Sobar tomorrow.
