Once the stuff of memes, bumper stickers and tween journals, after going along to No Lights No Lycra Newcastle last night we think “dance like no-one is watching” should be reclaimed as their catchphrase.
According to the their website, No Lights No Lycra (or NLNL as it’s known to its devotees) is a global dance community providing an inclusive and non-judgmental place for people to explore this notion. NLNL brings people together to experience the freedom of self-expression and joy.
But what does this all really mean? It means you dance in the dark. For fun and we just had to check it out.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Darkness. Like seriously, you cannot see. It takes a little time for your eyes to adjust but after a minute or so, the world is your dancefloor and you forget that it’s dark, and that anyone else is in the room.
To get sweaty! You are going to dance. For a whole hour. There might not be any dumbbells or treadmills but this is definitely a workout.
A diverse range of music. A local NLNL committee co-ordinate the hall,the Facebook page and the weekly playlist. They have a no repeat within three months policy and where else would you hear such audio segues as Elvis’ ‘Bossa Nova Baby’ into ‘Blue Monday’ by New Order?
Here’s a sample of the bangers you can expect:
https://www.facebook.com/NewcastleNoLightsNoLycra/photos/a.450281368480522/1350222375153079/?type=3&theater
People to be really polite. Despite being free to roam the dancefloor at your will everyone kind of formed lines in the hall and kept to their own space making it really comfortable and welcoming for us newbies. And at the end of each song, the room erupted in an applause of appreciation.
To be impressed by your mad skills. We think you’ll be pleasantly surprised by your own rhythm – amazing what shapes you can make without 6 beers under your belt and not wearing high heels.
WHAT NOT TO EXPECT
To have chats with your bestie. This is not the place to go for a weekly catch up, or a selfie opportunity. There is a ‘no talking’ and ‘no phone’ policy in place for everyone’s enjoyment.
To be turned away for wearing lycra. We know it’s in the name of the thing but you can actually wear whatever clothing you like, as long as you have shoes on your feet. We did notice that it is easier to see the silhouette of those wearing white or lighter colours so if you want to stay 100% anonymous, black is the order of the day.
Any judgement. This is all about fun, free from scrutiny and any judgement. So come on, put on your dancing shoes and bust your best ‘Elaine from Seinfeld’ moves.
THE DETAILS
Where: Polish Association of Newcastle, Community Hall
122 Chatham Street Broadmeadow, New South Wales 2293
When: Wednesday nights, 6.30pm – 7.30pm
Who: Everyone, anyone – even kids are welcome, as long as they are accompanied by an adult
What does it cost: $8, cash only but change is provided
More info: https://www.facebook.com/NewcastleNoLightsNoLycra/
