The Glossary: JohnJohn DeArmas | Creative/Experiential Producer
Introducing: JohnJohn DeArmas | Creative/Experiential Producer
RA and Doors Open are partnering with New York's Queer Nightlife Community Center (QNCC) to host RA25 UNLOCKED: Expanding Careers in Nightlife with QNCC, a free, one-day programme focused on developing sustainable careers in nightlife.
Taking place at the East New York venue on October 15th, the event will feature workshops covering sound engineering, lighting design and event production, alongside discussions on career pathways, event safety and harm reduction.
The programme is aimed at local nightlife workers and community members from East New York and Brownsville looking to expand their skills and improve financial stability. Applications will prioritise groups including FLINTA individuals, LGBTQIA+ community members, disabled workers, lower-income applicants and residents of East New York and Brownsville.
JohnJohn is next up in this special Glossary series introducing the speakers at our upcoming New York community event and exploring their careers in nightlife.
What is your role in music and what does your day to day look like?
I work in event production at the intersection of music, luxury, and fashion. I worked as a stylist, DJ, and a “nightlife promoter” in NYC in the 2000s (the era of the multi-hyphenate!), which informs so many arenas of my current work. I now get to bring my talent and skill sets to support and cultivate DJs and spaces I love.. The best part is there is no standard day-to-day; each project or event brings its own challenges.
How did you get into your line of work?
I was lucky enough to be in the right place at the right time and smart enough to listen and learn. My first job was the GM of Patricia Field. I was then nurtured by Eric Goode (Area) and Steven Lewis (Limelight), two greats in nightlife/hospitality. These people and my chosen family formed and informed me.
So it wasn’t a direct path, but each step was leading in the same direction.
What skills are important in your job?
From creative direction to budget and team oversight to building a network of vendors and tech crews, a good producer is always prepared but nimble enough to pivot on a dime.
Staying on top of city ordinances and codes is an important component in the planning process.
A philosophy that has always stayed with me is: None of us is as good as all of us. Properly outlining expectations of team members and helping achieve the desired outcomes has become pivotal to my successes. I am as great as the teams I build. Exploring harm reduction and dancefloor autonomy with a mindful approach has been the way forward in creating spaces that are impactful and contribute in a meaningful way.
Being excited. Staying curious.
REMAINING CALM IN THE EYE OF THE STORM
What have you found surprising about your role?
It reminded me of who I am at my core. The people I surround myself with have a genuine passion and respect for music and NYC culture and nightlife (in particular) and what that means - both historically and in the simple, casual thrill of having a great night out and finding each other on a dance floor,
We’ve been coming together in groups to dance and share space since the very beginning.
If someone is excited to do what you do, what advice would you give them?
Decide what aspect you're passionate about and find someone in the field who will talk to you.
One of the wonderful thing about nightlife is that it is filled with people who actively work at community.
Care about the people you meet and people will care to meet you.
Read more about RA25 UNLOCKED: Expanding Careers in Nightlife with QNCC and apply here.
Explore jobs in electronic music on Doors Open here.