We’ve been very fortunate with the weather this late winter, with several days feeling like spring. (If you follow @meshbetter on Instagram, you may have noticed several “OMG IT’S SPRING!”-style updates.) It’s still winter, however, in the Narina-sense that we’re currently being ruled by a White Witch who hates good people and loves candy. These events have all been chosen in the theme of “let’s all feel better,” so we’ve got about 50% dance party, 50% self-care and activism. Sounds about right.
Fri 24: You Are Not Alone: An Uplifting Show About Depression
Magnet Theater, 254 W 29th St, 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM, $7
This is a pretty triggering moment, when every day brings a fresh new attack on human rights and it can feel like optimism is basically insanity. When these negative feelings become overwhelming and turn into depression, anxiety, or other mental health issues, life itself can become overwhelming. Fortunately, there are people who can share those feelings with you and present an uplifting perspective, like with the show You Are Not Alone.
Fri 24: Rebel Night at Revision Lounge February 24th Friday w/ Guest Djs
Revision Lounge and Gallery, 219 Avenue B, 10:00 PM – 3:00 AM, Free
According to the event site, this is an event featuring “crazy Japanese host DJs,” which calls to mind a game show-like quality of outrageous tasks and loud noises such as boinks and awoooogas. There will certainly be noises, although probably more of the “vintage vinyl” variety. Dance, drink, and be merry.
Sat 25: Galactic Gala for Planned Parenthood
LightBox ,NY841 Barretto St, Bronx, 7:00 PM – 12:00 AM, $75/$100
Ooooh, a fancy party. This one is raising money for our old friends Planned Parenthood, who inserted and removed my IUD with such aplomb. Dress a bit like an astronaut, eat fancy food, drink as much as your little body can handle, dance it up, and feel fancy knowing that you’re supporting more women getting more IUDs, which if Mike Pence had his way would be called “Baby Murdering Claw Devices.”
Sat 25: Toasty-Warm Rooftop Party
Stage 48, 605 W 48th St, New York, 10:00 PM – 4:00 AM, $20
Silent disco is fun, guys. You can’t get over that fact. I find regular dance clubs to be very annoying, mostly because if you want to have a little chat you basically have to go inside a toilet to do so. There’s something so delightful about you and your friend pulling off those headphones to see people tromping around to the sound of their own feet. Dance along with top 40, hip hop, and retro music.
Sun 26: Enter the Flow
Three Jewels NYC, 61 4th Ave, 2:00 PM – 4:30 PM, $35 (advance)/$40 (day of)
I love the concept of flow. I first learned about it in the documentary Happy on Netflix. It’s that feeling you get of pure happiness and drive and effortless accomplishment when you get into the groove of doing something very well, very comfortably. I feel flow sometimes when I perform musical improv. You might feel it when you go duck hunting or dog grooming. Flow can literally come from any activity. This class teaches some methods to tap into flow, such as foods to eat or mindsets to activate.
Sun 26: Queer and Trans Dance Party/Protest
Trump Tower New York 725 5th Ave, 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM, Free
This is a dance protest along the lines of the (meme-famous) WERK dance part outside of Mike Pence’s house, pictured above. LGBTQ+ are invited to dance it out in front of Trump Tower, along with any smooth-dancin’ allies who are okay with recognizing that the event is meant to uplift and support and highlight their queer/trans family.
Mon 27: Get Organized Brooklyn: Full Group Meeting
Congregation Beth Elohim, 274 Garfield Pl, Brooklyn, 6:30 PM – 9:30 PM, Free
This community activism group will begin with a panel and presentations, and then break into small groups to plan action. This month’s event focuses on protecting public education, which of course is under fire under this administration.
Thurs 2: Moonrise/Sunrise
Brooklyn Colony (Breuckelen Colony), 274 4th Ave, 9:00 PM – 2:00 AM, $5
Neon Tribe is an all-female DJ collective, which should be enough to make you want to immediately go check out their event. If you need more encouragement, I’ll let you know that there are $5 well drinks and plenty of art to buy when you’re taking a break from dancing wildly.
