In case you've missed the previous fifteen editions of Kingston's annual, ultra-inclusive "adult prom," Slow Dance is a self-described "raging and festive dance party" and "re-do of hilarious middle school dances." The soundtrack is laid down by DJs, who sprinkle in sets of slow songs, while decorated, designated dancers roam the floor pruning any wallflowers.
Slow Dance started when Kingston's Laura Kelly and Vince Perez joined forces to organize the sort of events they wanted to see happen in Kingston. The two were also behind the local monthly storytelling series, Mouthy. While Perez has been busy with other pursuits, Kelly continues to carry the torch. "The first Slow Dance took place at Modern Fuel's old location on Queen Street back in 2010 and has absolutely taken on a life of its own from that time onwards," recalls Kelly. "The people that attend year after year make Slow Dance the special event that it is."
With Slow Dance, Kelly has curated an experience for audiences that have historically been ignored by or excluded from Valentine's Day events. While not an exclusively queer event, Kelly has worked to grow Slow Dance into a haven for the queer community. "Many people from the LGBTQ2S+ community, as well as BIPOC individuals, do not always feel safe or celebrated at every event in Kingston," explains Kelly. "Each year I have people tell me that Slow Dance is one of the only events where they feel safe going out to party as their most authentic selves."
Each February, the intentionally prom-like event—which regularly sells out—brings together a diversity of adults of all ages and walks of life. While dressing up and dancing are highly encouraged, the multi-floor event provides many opportunities to participate and have fun, including a photo booth and activities organized by community groups. "[Slow Dance] provides an opportunity to dress up, to dance, to meet new people, and to reclaim a time of year that can be really hard for a lot of individuals. Valentine's day can be romantic, sure, but we also make it campy," says Kelly. "Slow Dance has always felt significant to me because it provides an opportunity for truly diverse members of the Kingston community to come together in celebration. It nourishes the best of Kingston. And it's always a really fun party!"
Safe, inclusive fun seem to be the tenets of Slow Dance, where attendees can choose how they want to participate. "It's one of those rare events that welcomes everyone however they arrive and ensures that they have a great time," assures Kelly. While most of the music is upbeat, just like prom, DJ sets include obligatory slow jams for getting in close. "If you're too shy to ask a stranger to dance, we have designated dancers there to help you get into the swing of the evening," Kelly explains. "These people are very approachable."
Celebrated local DJ, L.A. Foster, spins at this year's Slow Dance, fittingly taking place Friday, February 14 at The Grad Club, and with the support of the City of Kingston and the Kingston Arts Council. Details and tickets here:
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Posted: Feb 3, 2025
In this Article Resource(s)
The Grad Club,
Many Moons Events Artist(s)
Laura Kelly, L.A. Foster