Live music in a virtual world
exuberant flourishing and disability at Wheelies nightclub in Second Life
M. Kent; K. Ellis
Abstract
This chapter explores the virtual world Second Life and specifically one of its more famous nightclub venues. Wheelies opened in 2006 as a virtual nightclub that catered to both people with disabilities, and those who do not present as such. Its founder and proprietor, Simon Stevens, was the first person in Second Life to have his avatar appear in a wheelchair and helmet, reflecting Stevens’ analog identity. Wheelies is famous for its dance floor full of people’s avatars both in and out of wheelchairs, dancing and socializing. The club won the Catalyst Revolutionary Award in the United Kingdom in 2008.
This chapter initially ...
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