United by dance
| United by dance |
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A world united by dance? Why not! Andrew Shaw previews a unique dance party. Dance, like the music which drives it, translates across cultures because it does not rely on language; it’s about rhythm and movement. In fact, one of the first things British sailors did at Sydney Cove was dance with the Aborigines who came down to the harbour, so Australia’s first event was a same-sex dance party! It’s a pity relations didn’t continue in the same spirit. Dance unites, and seven years ago, in response to racism following the attacks on the Twin Towers and the Bali bombings, the Australian Gay Lesbian Bisexual Transgender Intersex and Queer Multicultural Council held the first United We Dance event. The concept was to show that the GLBTIQ community could come together despite its diversity. This year, co-producer Colin Krycer says there are three shows, with acts from many cultural backgrounds – including, for the first time, Koori performers. “We have Koori drag queen Constantina Bush and dancer Nicky Ashby,” he told MCV. “We’ll have everything from male belly-dancers to Asian drag performances to Italian drag kings to Maori warrior dancers; including Nana Mousaka all the way from Brisbane. “This is not just another dance party, it is unique: unique music and unique performers as well.” Participating groups include Greek and Gay, Aleph (Jewish Men), Italian and Gay, Slavic and Gay, Arab and Gay, Yellow Kitties (Asian Women), Greek Lesbians, Anbar (South Asian), Arcilesbica (Italian Women), Gay Asian Proud and the Jewish Lesbian Group. Over the years, $9,000 has been raised and directed back into the community: Bent TV, JOY 94.9, Positive Attitude, the David Williams Fund, the Australian GLBTIQ Multicultural Council Inc and the Asia Pacific OutGames have all received support from United We Dance. This year, proceeds will go to the Victorian Gay & Lesbian Rights Lobby. The event is fully organised by volunteers, and all performers on the night donate their time. The Market will play host to the evening, the venue being a continuing supporter of United We Dance. DJ Proko provides the global sounds to keep you out on the floor among a United Nations of Dance, plus there’s a drink on arrival, finger food and door prizes. If you want to break out of the usual dance party routine and be part of a unique event – while helping to raise funds for a good cause – get along to The Market on Sunday and shake your groove thing. You might even pick up some new moves.
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Anyone who’s really lost themselves on the dancefloor knows dance can bring people together like no other human activity – OK, maybe all but one... 
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