I have a guilty secret. No – not that I love Motown music, that’s nothing to be ashamed of. But at the end of each month I sneak down to a hall next to a local Twickenham pub on the A316 (The Winning Post) for a Motown Dance Party – with hundreds of other over 25s. It’s like returning to school disco days.
I’ve always loved dancing. But there comes a point when you feel you are simply too old and lumpy to be seen in the same space as all those slim, youthful, energetic people. And it gets harder to keep up with the latest sounds and moves. And you don’t really want to be propositioned on the dance floor anymore. So I stopped renewing my membership of China Whites before it moved from its Regent Street location and resigned myself to a dancing-free life.
Then one night at a local pub I heard some chaps talking about a local “grab a granny” night. I thought I’d investigate. So I took along a dear friend who adores Motown – thinking at least he’d like the music. We danced for a couple of hours and were surprised at how much fun we had.
Then I took some of my West Indian friends. Same thing – they loved it. Then I took one of my more discerning friends – she asked when we could go again. Then I took an ex-boyfriend who’s not known to be a great soul music or dance fan. He’s now been more than once. So it’s not just me!
OK, the people there are mature but the atmosphere is incredible – really friendly and relaxed. None of that aggressive territorial posturing you sometimes encounter. And the venue is immense – a large wooden floored dance area that is lit by disco lights. No one stares no matter how enthusiastically or modestly you dance. Everyone smiles. It’s really good natured. It’s a bit like a family wedding – without the inevitable feuds. There’s also an equally large area where there are tables that seat around 12 people and plenty of space to just chat and watch the fun. My only grumble is that the bar never seems to have enough staff and the wait to be served can be tortuous.
You need ID to get in and they are serious about security, good behaviour and attire. Mind you, the stewards and bouncers are genuinely pleasant folk – intent on ensuring everyone has hassle-free fun. And the music is excellent. Sets of all your favourite Motown tunes interspersed with soul and club classics circa 1970. Occasionally, a 1980s tune slips into the mix.
Whilst there are obviously some single chaps and ladies, there are also plenty of couples – and a fair number of groups. On Friday I took a group of 30 of my friends there after a few drinks at the house, and they too all loved it. In fact, the majority stayed til the end at 1am. And with ticket prices at £10 (£8 if you are a member) it doesn’t break the bank either.
The next event in Twickenham is on 30th August http://www.skiddle.com/whats-on/Twickenham/Winning-Post/Motown-Soul-Classics-Dance-Party/11793030/ but I won’t be there as I’ll be in the United States on holiday. Maybe see you at the September event though?
They do similar events in:
Camden http://www.skiddle.com/whats-on/London/The-Fiddler%27s-Elbow/Motown-Night-in-Camden/11920080/
Balham http://www.skiddle.com/whats-on/London/The-Bedford/Motown-Funk-club-night/11884956/
Peckham http://www.skiddle.com/whats-on/London/Bussey-Building-/The-South-London-Soul-Train/11903804/
