For one night only, the Rivoli Ballroom in South London will open its doors, dust off its dancefloor and draw back its curtains for a unique film and dance night that allows visitors to live their very own ballroom dream.
Part of the National Trust’s London Lates — a series designed to open up London locations of architectural, aesthetic or social importance that often have limited public access — Strictly Rivoli Ballroom is centred around an immersive film experience, inspired by Baz Luhrmann’s Strictly Ballroom.
It's nearly 60 years since the Rivoli was used as a cinema, but Hacked Off Films and the London Project present a full screening of the 1992 film, with professional dancers on hand to bring the film to life before you.
You then have the opportunity to learn some ballroom basics from a dance coach and take to the floor. Tracks from the film and classic dance numbers will ring out, so you can waltz beneath the chandeliers, Chinese lanterns and glitter balls of London’s last intact 1950's ballroom.
Show off your skills to a judging panel for a chance to win a trophy, or just sit back in the Grade II listed art deco dance hall and enjoy performances from professional ballroom dancers throughout the evening. You don’t get cha-cha-chances like this often (sorry) so don’t pass(o doble - bit tenuous that one), quick-step to it (slightly better).
London Lates: Strictly Rivoli Ballroom takes place 7-11.30pm on Thursday 28 November at the Rivoli Ballroom, 350 Brockley Road, SE4 2BY. Tickets cost £26/£20+bf and can be purchased online.
