The scene at the Jet Set nightclub in Santo Domingo, where the roof collapsed early Tuesday killing at least 124, was increasingly grim as bodies but no more survivors were recovered.
Jet Set, an aging disco just a block from the sea in Santo Domingo, was the place to be on Monday nights.
And this Monday was no exception.
A collection of the country’s bold face names — from bankers to retired Major League Baseball players to politicians — were eager to kick up their heels and party, even on a school night, to see a concert by Rubby Pérez, who is known as the “loudest voice in merengue.”
Hundreds of people paid $32 for tickets to see the renowned Dominican entertainer who had recently celebrated his 69th birthday.
Live music Mondays at the Jet Set were something of a tradition in the Dominican capital, where a penchant for enjoying life and good music helped the night club thrive with locals and tourists alike.
“Jet Set was a symbol,” said José Antonio Rodríguez, a singer and former Dominican minister of culture. “You have to understand: The Dominican is a partyer. They like to get together with friends — and Jet Set was a place for that.”
