We’ve all heard the expression ‘dance like nobody’s watching’ but this can often be difficult to do.
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In the social media age, a lot of people feel as though they can’t fully express themselves because of the risk it may end up online.
This is where No Lights No Lycra comes in. The organisation is all about providing a safe environment for people to get down without the fear of persecution or judgement.
The idea came about in 2009 and is the brainchild of Melbourne dance students Alice Glenn and Heidi Barrett.
NLNL Ballarat ambassador Rebecca Perovic says the program has helped participants throughout its three-year existence.
“When people come through the door they are free to move however they want,” she said.
NLNL is a one-hour dance session where the lights are dimmed to help people feel more comfortable hitting the d-floor.
The concept of dancing in a dark room may seem scary to some, but Mrs Perovic said people have nothing to fear.
“It’s not pitch black,” she laughed.
“You can still see the silhouettes of people and your surroundings.
“People will come in and just let loose, get it all out on the dance floor. They give each other space, it’s a very respectful environment.”
2018 was the most successful year to date for NLNL in Ballarat, consistently packing out the Railways Institute Hall.
Mrs Perovic believes this is only the start.
“It was a slow start in the beginning,” she told The Courier.
“We would have had some sessions with single digits through the door but now the word has gotten out and the response has been spectacular.
“It’s a great experience both physically and mentally.
“To see the looks on people’s faces after they’ve had a good dance, It makes me feel like we are doing something extremely important.”
The program runs every first and third Monday of the month at the Victorian Railways Institute Hall on the corner of Lydiard Street North and Nolan Street.
If you’re interested in coming along, entry is $8 in cash and you’ll have to remember one key rule.
“Phones, fitbits, talking and worries are not allowed,” Mrs Perovic said.