Get your groove on for a good cause.
A unique all-ages dance party will be taking place at Viking Rentals Centre on Saturday, Sept. 21 to benefit Inclusion Foothills.
Dubbed the first-ever silent disco event in the Okotoks region by host Kindred Roots Therapy, the event blends inclusivity and fun. Participants wear wireless headphones with which to listen to music, allowing attendees to enjoy their own personalized experience without overwhelming noise.
“This kind of dance party checks a lot of boxes for us,” says Allegra Taylor, founder and director of Kindred Roots Therapy. “Our therapists have noticed that people are craving more fun and connection in their lives but there aren’t a lot of opportunities in Okotoks for an all-ages, sober, night out. Plus, there’s no doubt that music, movement and togetherness can have a positive impact on our collective mental health and we wanted to do something to support that.”
The event, suitable for children to adults of any age, will feature a live DJ and two other music channels, allowing attendees to switch between different styles of music to suit their personal preferences and support individuals with sensory needs by preventing auditory overload.
“It’s true that for some of our clients with sensory or other issues, a dance party could be an environment that they don’t feel comfortable attending. But this 'silent' twist makes them in control of their own experience. If it gets to be too much, they can turn down the volume or even turn it off and just watch the people around them or talk to other people at a normal volume,” said Kelly Smit, opportunities coordinator for Inclusion Foothills.
“The beauty is in the fact that they feel included.”
All proceeds from ticket sales and concessions at the event will go towards the organization, which provides advocacy and a community support network for individuals with a disability while supporting their inclusion in the community.
The party runs from 8 to 11:30 p.m., and tickets are $40 in advance or $50 at the door, if available.
Tickets are available here.
Learn more about Inclusion Foothills here.
