Dance London Dance at the Queen of Hoxton

What better way to have kick–started the Easter holidays than a night out at Dance London Dance at London’s Queen of Hoxton?  Hosting an array of dance acts from around the world, on Thursday 5^th April, the crowds poured into the Shoreditch venue renowned for its trendy clientele and legendary club nights. 

While dance music enthusiasts were clearly in high-spirits, the event also catered for those who weren’t so clued up about the international dance circuit.  For example, the DJs’ inclination for pop and ‘feel-good’ summertime beats immediately became apparent, with a number of artists sampling disco classics from the likes of Kylie Minogue, Rick Astley and Blondie.

With the event starting at six in the evening and going on until two o’clock the following morning, endurance levels needed to be tip-top if you wanted to experience all the acts in their entirety.  Nevertheless, the Queen of Hoxton was well-prepared for the inevitable ‘chill out’ moments.  For example, the ample seating and spectacular lighting effects meant that you could simply sit down for a while and observe the theatricality of the DJs’ sets without tiring yourself out prematurely during the long night.

The night came alive when Swedish duo Drop Out Orchestra came onto the main stage, and it’s fair to say that their performance wasn’t that of your average DJ act. Alongside their samples from an eclectic range of famous musicians, they played live instruments throughout their set including a bass guitar and several percussion instruments.  Observing their trademark oversized black sunglasses and their lively interaction with audience members, it became clear that the visual aspect of their set was key.  

Also headlining the night was the Munich-based dance artist Moullinex. While he is well-known for his electronic funk remixes of tracks by the indie band Two Door Cinema Club and Michael Sembello’s 80s classic Maniac, he didn’t hold back in showing the Queen of Hoxton audience what he was truly capable of. As the last act of the night, the audience were really letting go of their inhibitions at this stage. It was truly a performance to remember. 

Local DJs Jerry Bouthier and Figures also played impressive sets and reminded everyone that the London dance scene is thriving more than ever. 

A special mention must also go to baker and blogger What Laura Made, who kindly provided shimmering yet very tasty ‘Cake-Pops’ for people as they entered the nightclub.  While giving people that much needed sugar-kick for the night ahead, the sugary treats perfectly exemplified the fun and unpretentious atmosphere of the event.

Connie Viney

Click here to read our interview with Drop Out Orchestra.