Dance 208

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Review

Dance 208 is the bi-weekly dance party held at New York’s LGBT community center. This long running event has been going on at the Center for well over two decades, and it keeps drawing a wonderfully mixed crowd of partygoers striving to keep New York’s dance culture alive.

In the fickle world of gay nightlife, Dance 208 succeeds in remaining current, while still holding true to its original spirit. It provides a welcome outlet for all of New York’s gay community to get together and celebrate its diversity, in a friendly, inclusive atmosphere. As such, it constitutes a refreshing alternative to the usual commercial party circuit, and brings back an authentic house party kind of vibe.

Rooted in New York’s rich and long tradition of gay dance parties, Dance 208 features many talents, performers and characters that have come out from this scene. Legendary DJ’s such as Frankie Knuckles, Susan Morabito, Billy Carroll, Johnny Dynell are regular guests, and Dance 208 provides a unique opportunity to dance in an intimate setting to the mix of such dance music pioneers.

Each edition of Dance 208 is centered on a theme, celebrating the many facets of New York’s gay dance culture. Some of the most famous, and recurring events include “Garage Classics” honoring the legacy of the seminal nightclub, “Fur Ball” the annual bear lover extravaganza, and the traditional Valentine’s dance.

The promoters of the event make sure each event is unique and special, drawing inspiration for new themes from the many scenes and sub-cultures New York has spawned. Be on the lookout for the upcoming party is schedule to find out what famous DJ or legendary performer will be featured at Dance:208.