Virtual Reality Recreates 1989 Acid House Rave
A new virtual reality installation at London’s Barbican is transporting visitors back to the UK’s acid house rave era of 1989, offering an immersive journey through a transformative youth movement.
The experience, titled In Pursuit of Repetitive Beats, recreates the sights, sounds and spirit of the late 1980s rave culture that brought together thousands of young people through underground music and communal gatherings.
Developed by director Darren Emerson, the interactive installation uses VR goggles, vibrating vests, headphones and motion controls to simulate the journey to a secret rave - right down to a nostalgic drive in a red Peugeot 205. The experience explores how the acid house scene, influenced by Chicago club music and fuelled by ecstasy, broke down social and racial barriers at a time of political and cultural tension in Britain.
Among those taking part are DJ Erique Dial and rave organiser Richard Raindance, who were both part of the original scene. Raindance helped stage the UK’s first licenced rave in 1989 and continues to host events today. Visitors have responded emotionally to the Barbican experience, with many describing it as a powerful reminder of the friendships and freedom found during that era.
