DJ Initiates Sober Events to Address “Stigma”

An individual who works as a DJ and is a recovered alcoholic has initiated alcohol-free social events, aiming to confront the “stigma associated with not drinking”. Tony Modlen, aged 55, residing in Easton, Bristol, expressed his desire to “recreate the pub experience”. This initiative follows his decision to cease alcohol consumption 11 months prior, a period when he “hit rock bottom” and consumed a “bottle and a half of brandy a day”. Mr Modlen stated, “We are conditioned to believe we need to have a drink to socialise, but I want to change that.” He is scheduled to perform as a DJ at the upcoming event, named Re-connection, which is slated for Saturday at the venue Lost Horizon in St Jude’s. Speaking to BBC Radio Bristol, Mr Modlen, known by his DJ alias Tony Montana, remarked: “I kind of realised it was bad during the end of 2020.” He further elaborated, “You don’t see it coming until it’s there, it’s insidious, it creeps up on you.” His path to recovery commenced after a friend recommended the DHI (Developing Health and Independence) recovery programme, located in Bristol. Currently 11 months sober, Mr Modlen conveyed that he misses the “social side of drinking” and expressed his intention to establish an event where sober individuals could “enjoy themselves and have fun”. He added, “What I’m trying to do is recreate the social life that I miss of going to the pub.” Mr Modlen mentioned that he now “really enjoys” DJing without alcohol. He recounted, “When I first gave up drinking I would literally run down there and do my thing, and run home.” He continued, “Now I can stay all night, I’m as involved as I ever was but I’m more present now because I’m aware of what’s going on.” He concluded, “That feeling is priceless, I wish I could bottle that and give it to people instead of a drink.” Mr Modlen expressed his hope to organize additional events, contingent on the success of this Saturday’s gathering. He stated, “We hope to do one every four months.” He further commented, “It would be lovely to go into different venues and create a social scene, but I’m really encouraged by how many people are not in recovery who have got behind this. “I think there’s definitely a growing trend towards sober spaces.” Readers can follow BBC Bristol on Facebook, X, and Instagram. Story ideas can be submitted via email or WhatsApp at 0800 313 4630. This content is Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content of external sites. Information regarding their approach to external linking is available.