We meet the boys behind the London Gay Men’s Dance Company.
Dancing is good for the SOUL. That’s what Janet Jackson would tell you, and that’s what we’re telling you! We’re close personal friends with Janet you know, she pops into the office sometimes for an ethically sourced kale shake and a natter.
But yes, dancing’s great! The perfect way to relieve stress and keep fit whilst being FIERCE. Yaas kween (etc, etc).
The Gay Men’s Dance Company are London’s BIGGEST dance company. With trials coming up this April, and a huge event at The Troxy next week, we spoke to four of the boys; Dom, James, Mayowa and GMDC chief Alex Scurr, about how it all kicked off!
Hey boys! So…sum up the GMDC in three words!
Dom:Â Synchronised, bubbly misfits!
Mayowa: Charisma Uniqueness Nerve Tal…,oh sorry, erm, Dance Lovers United!
Alex: Family, pride, fun
James:Â Boys/Boys/Boys
Who’s your fave diva to dance to?
M: Rihanna, every time, no question! Every song is a banger, different styles of music and she was twerking before that became a thing.
J:Â Miss Britney Spears AKA the Queen
D:Â Easily Cheryl Cole, you know, before she became basic #SorryBoutIt
A: Rihanna, Britney, Beyonce (her older stuff). I’ve been using a lot of Jess Glynne in class recently, her stuff is great for our warm ups. But for me a good song to dance to has to have a sick beat, like old school Missy Elliott, or some real soul like Motown or Disco tracks.
Who would be your dream guest star to dance with GMDC and why?
M: Beyonce, because I want to have that Alexandra Burke in Xfactor moment. You know, that moment where you’re about to have a nervous breakdown because you’re performing right next to your idol, you’re a blubbering mess, your bottom lip is wobbling away and you deliver because it’s Beyonce, duh! I want all those feelings, at the same time on stage in front of total strangers!
D:I don’t really care, as long as they give it all and love every minute!
J:Â Â See Question 2
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What was the original aim of GMDC?
A: There was no real aim at the beginning, it was just a new business for me that I thought I’d enjoy. But there’s definitely an aim now – to create an open, safe and fun environment for anyone, especially people who feel like they don’t fit in, are lonely or unhappy in any way. Where they can come and be a part of something, find acceptance, find normality and find their true self. Sounds cheesy I know, but I believe there are so many people in London – gay men in particular – who aren’t happy. I want to help combat some of that, make life a little easier and better. We’re all individuals, we’re all different and we all matter!
Tell us a bit about the GMDC’s history – how did everything get started?
A: I came up with the idea when I was looking into having my own hobby, and realised there was very little dance out there for the LGBT community. After chatting to a few friends about what they thought, I decided to try it. In September 2015 we opened – one class, 24 guys. It wasn’t until near the end of the first term after seeing what I’d created that I thought wow, this could actually work and be a big thing!
Tell us about your show at the Troxy!
D: well, it’s a show and I’m gunna be in it? What more do you need to know?! It’s a brilliant experience, a huge laugh for everyone and is for a great cause! Do something different and come and watch us!
A: We have about 130 members singing, dancing & pole dancing, 4 special guest acts and 1 very special surprise celebrity guest act! The theme is Love, Sex, Community & Pride, so we have some great high energy numbers, like our all male Single Ladies, (cleverly renamed Single Laddies), a Britney megamix, a George Micheal Tribute & a Magic Mike inspired number. Then we have numbers showcasing different genres of music and dance, like Musical Theatre and a Tango. But we also have some numbers that touch on slightly more serious and relevant social issues. We want to show that there’s more to us and the GMDC than just glitter and jazz hands.
M:Â It’s gonna be big, bold and in your face! It’s full of drama, love, passion, pride and hope. It’s the culmination of all of our hard work over the last year and it’s going to be amazing. If you don’t come and see it you’ll be missing out. Don’t be that person at home with fomo!
For those who’d like to get involved, what are the requirements?
D:Â requirements? Well, if you WANT to get involved then you’re already there. Just message any of us on social and we can point you in the right direction. So, quite wasting time and join!
M: Requirements are to turn up to a trial class, wear whatever you feel comfortable in, have fun meeting nice guys and come to the pub after for shenanigans! Simple!
J:Â None at all, just come and have fun. Everyone is very friendly
A: I would say, all you need is to be open to trying it…We have trial classes happening in April, get in touch, come down to any of the classes, throw yourself into it, and then come for a drink after. Any age, height, weight, fitness and ability level, these classes are for everyone.
The Gay Men’s Dance Company Charity Gala is at The Troxy on Saturday 8th April. Doors 6:30pm. Tickets available at troxy.co.uk
