Anya Taylor-Joy: The Raver Behind the Chess Prodigy
Anya Taylor-Joy is a name that has become synonymous with exceptional talent, particularly after her acclaimed performance as chess prodigy Beth Harmon in Netflix’s The Queen’s Gambit. However, there’s an intriguing layer to her personality that contrasts sharply with the poised image she presents in front of the camera. In a candid interview for the September 2026 issue of Elle magazine, Taylor-Joy revealed her affinity for rave culture, providing an unexpected but fascinating glimpse into a different side of her life.
The Divergence from Ballet to Rave
Initially, Anya Taylor-Joy’s journey into rave culture did not come from the electronic music scene but rather from her extensive background in ballet. For years, she dedicated herself to classical ballet training. As she entered her teenage years, however, the confines and rigidity of ballet began to feel stifling. At the age of 15, she sought a new outlet for self-expression. “That’s a pretty good split of my personality, to be honest,” Taylor-Joy shared, juxtaposing her disciplined ballet training with her emerging love for the thrill of deep, dark techno music.
This shift marked a significant turning point in her life, illuminating her need for intensity and freedom. It wasn’t just about the music for her; it was about reclaiming her sense of self in an environment that allowed for spontaneity and primal energy.
Birthday Bash with a Rave Twist
One of the most telling anecdotes from Taylor-Joy’s life emerged as she celebrated her 30th birthday. In a feat of spontaneity and enthusiasm, she organized a massive warehouse rave in Los Angeles, pulling together 200 guests in just two days. This was not a traditional birthday party but rather a vibrant confluence of energy and creativity, steeped in rave culture. Her friends took on the roles of DJs, spinning “pretty intense techno,” a genre Taylor-Joy admitted may not appeal to everyone. Yet, she noted, her friends embraced the experience wholeheartedly, showcasing the eclectic spirit of community that raves often cultivate.
The intensity of the event didn’t stop there; Taylor-Joy relished every moment. After partying until 1:30 AM, she got a mere two hours of sleep before heading to Coachella, an iconic festival that aligns with her love for immersive experiences. Following that whirlwind of festivities, she embarked on a dreamlike cross-country road trip, embodying the same passionate approach she applies to her acting career and life in general.
Life in Berlin: A Healthy Immersion
Taylor-Joy’s intersection with rave culture deepened further during her time in Berlin while filming The Queen’s Gambit. She reflected on this period as one of the healthiest times in her life, a statement that may surprise those who equate clubbing with reckless behavior. In an interview on The Drew Barrymore Show, she debunked the notion that rave culture must be unhealthy. Instead, she found a balanced routine that suited her well-being.
“I would wake up on a Sunday, I’d have brunch, I would go to the club, I would dance for about eight hours, not talk to anybody, go home, eat a bowl of spaghetti, and wake up at four o’clock in the morning and go to work,” she explained. This daily rhythm portrays a striking balance: the physical exertion of dancing, the satisfaction of good food, and the discipline of work. It underscores the idea that, for Taylor-Joy, rave culture was not merely about wild nights but a wholesome lifestyle that rejuvenated her.
A Connection to Music Beyond the Mainstream
Taylor-Joy’s immersion in the musical world goes beyond her personal experiences—it also includes the artistic realm. In 2015, she made an appearance in Skrillex’s remix of GTA’s “Red Lips,” a significant milestone in her early career. While Skrillex is known for his heavy-hitting dubstep and bass drops, Taylor-Joy used this platform to showcase her multifaceted identity. At a time when she was about to break into the film industry with her role in The Witch, this music video served to highlight her versatility and willingness to explore different forms of artistic expression.
By aligning herself with a prominent figure in the electronic music scene, Taylor-Joy positioned herself in a space that resonated with her love for energetic and engaging art forms. This early foray into music provided a foundation for her ongoing relationship with the rave culture that continues to be a vital part of her identity.
The Unlikely Intersection of Art and Life
Anya Taylor-Joy’s journey from the structured world of ballet to the exhilarating freedom of rave culture paints a complex picture of her character. She embodies an artistic spirit willing to explore, express, and immerse herself fully in diverse experiences. Through her love for intense techno music and rave culture, she not only finds joy and excitement but also cultivates a lifestyle that supports her dynamic career in acting. Taylor-Joy’s candid admissions reveal that behind the poised, sophisticated actress lies a vibrant, free-spirited individual who thrives on intensity and connection—both in art and life.
