The Original Club Thriller Throwback Party Returns to Westend

There are few names in Cape Town nightlife that still spark instant recognition across generations, and Club Thriller is one of them. On Saturday 7 February 2026, that legacy comes roaring back as Club Thriller – The Original Throwback takes over Westend in Rylands Estate for one carefully curated night of nostalgia, movement and memory. Starting at 5 PM and running till late, the event promises not just a party, but a return to a time when club culture felt communal, unapologetic and electric in its sense of possibility.

Club Thriller Was a Trendsetting Experience

Club Thriller first opened its doors on 6 December 1985, during the height of apartheid, on Modderdam Rd in Belleville South. As a sister venue to the legendary Club Galaxy, it quickly became a magnet for music lovers, trendsetters and weekend escapees from across the city and beyond. Its advanced sound system, cutting-edge lighting and distinctive two-level layout placed it years ahead of its time, offering an immersive experience that set new standards for what a dancefloor could be.

But Club Thriller was never only about technology or tracks. It was a full-blown lifestyle. From the famous toasted steak and chips to the freedom of bringing your own XYZ, the club embodied a rare sense of ease and belonging. It was a space where people gathered to dance, to connect, and to briefly step outside the rigid constraints of the era. In that sense, Club Thriller was quietly radical, carving out joy and self-expression in a deeply restricted social landscape.

The DJs Who Defined the Club Thriller Sound

At the heart of the experience were the DJs who defined its sound. Selwyn Bartlett, Andre Pearce aka Dr Boogie, and Russell “The Love Muscle” Connolly were not just selectors, they were architects of mood and movement. Selwyn and Russell, together known as the Terrible Twins, helped shape a soundtrack that flowed seamlessly between disco, pop and the emerging house sounds of the late 80s and early 90s. Tracks by Sonia, Rick Astley and Kylie Minogue sat comfortably alongside remixes by Frankie Knuckles and Ben Liebrand, keeping the floor packed and the energy high.

There were of course a number of other DJ’s who also at different stages during the existence of Club Thriller stepped into the DJ Booth and set the dancefloor ablaze.

Now, decades later, Club Thriller – The Original Throwback brings that spirit back to life at Westend. This is not a re-enactment or a novelty night, but a respectful revival of a cultural moment that still resonates.

The DJs Who Will Revive the Club Thriller Sound

Sadly, both Dr Boogie and Russel have passed away, but Selwyn Bartlett, who is organising the Club Thriller Throwback Party, will be keeping their memories alive when he is joined on the decks by two surprise special guest DJs who both at different stages rocked the crowds at the original Club Thriller.

Another surprise guest DJ will be an up-and-coming 19-year-old female DJ who has an undeniable love for playing Old School music. According to Selwyn Bartlett, Thriller Throwback partygoers will be pleasantly surprised by her skills to create a revival of the Old School era. The event also gives her an opportunity to experience playing to a crowd that have lived the original Old School Clubbers lifestyle.

Whether you were there in its heyday or discovered the music long after, the night invites you to dance, reconnect and experience the timeless appeal of a club that helped shape Cape Town’s nightlife history.

Club Thriller Throwback Event Details

Club Thriller – The Original Throwback takes place on Saturday 7 February 2026 at Westend on College Road in Rylands Estate, Cape Town. The party kicks off at 5 PM and runs till late, sound-tracked by disco, pop and house classics from the 80s and 90s. Dress comfortably and come ready to dance. Tickets are priced at R100 when pre-sold, with door tickets available at R150 on the night.

Presold Tickets can be ordered directly from Selwyn Bartlett via WhatsApp on +27726215894 or via email to selwyn@selcorp.co.za

Find more on Bruinou.co about Selwyn Bartlett who is also a music industry, broadcasting and media expert.

You can also scan the QR Code on the flyer below to add Selwyn as a contact.