It’s not easy to find a great dance party that starts at a civilized hour. Which is why I’m so excited about Freakin’ Fun Friday, taking place April 12 at Ottawa Dance Directive (ODD) in Arts Court.
The lively four-room event kicks off at 7pm with karaoke in the dance studio, hosted by Ottawa dance artists Laura Taler and Mary Catherine Jack. Meanwhile, in the ODD BOX, members of Compagnie ODD perform The Fembots, a live version of their Scattered Clouds music video.
Mary Catherine Jack and Laura Taler. Photo provided.
According to Jack, who is also an organizer of the event, “The four spaces will be totally transformed by ODD’s amazing technical director, Laura Wheeler. And we’re so excited about presenting The Fembots–the edgy, creative mastermind of ODD’s Artistic Director, Yvonne Coutts, with Amanda Bon, Jacqueline Ethier, Alya Graham and Sarah Hopkin performing.”
The Fembots. Photo provided.
A highlight of the evening is a dance party starting around 8:30pm, DJ’d by Trevor Walker. For 30 years, Trevor Walker has been one of Canada’s best kept secrets, spinning ultra-danceable afro, jazz, disco, funk and soul tracks for his loyal audiences. An Ottawa legend, he has played alongside DJs Fred Everything and Roger Sanchez, and shared the bill with bands such as Jamiroquai and The Roots.
DJ Trevor Walker. Photo provided.
“We’ll also have crystal readings with Jacynthe Villemaire and cupcake decorating hosted by dance artist Robin Treleaven,” adds Jack. “So whether you love to sing, dance, socialize or just observe, our plan is to make it freakin’ fun for everyone.”
Participants are encouraged to “dress to shine.” All proceeds go to support the Ottawa Dance Directive, a hub for professional dance in Ottawa, including Series Dance 10, Compagnie ODD, local, national and international residencies and professional development.
Freakin’ Fun Friday takes place Friday, April 12 at the Arts Court. Tickets are $25 + fees and are available here.
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