The Deep End

As one of the first European DJs to put down roots in South Beach in the early '90s, Ivano Bellini played a critical role in exposing South Florida crowds to new sounds. Born in Lausanne, Switzerland, to a musical family, Bellini knew early on that his life would be dedicated to making people dance. By the time he immigrated to the United States, he was renowned as one of Switzerland's greatest talents behind the decks.

The subtropics welcomed Bellini's brand of slick, progressive house with open arms. He quickly became one of the original all-night DJs at Space, founding the Sunrise Sessions with owner Luis Puig's blessing and helping to put the superclub on the international map. He's still throwing down at those Saturday-morning wake-up calls, but if Miami's too far to drive -- or if 10 a.m. is a little early in the day to start cutting a rug -- you can catch him closer to home.

For the next two Friday nights, and possibly longer, Bellini will spill the sauce at Gryphon, Seminole Paradise's lustrous cathedral of dance. Crowds over the past few weekends have been growing, and because of Gryphon's nonexistent last call, Bellini's sets are expected to go further and further into the wee hours. That'll give him -- and you -- just enough time to zip on over to Space to start your Saturday off right.

Ivano Bellini plays Friday, January 28, and Friday, February 4, at Gryphon, 5711 Seminole Way, Hollywood. Doors open at 10 p.m., and tickets cost $20. Call 954-581-5454.