The Thousands

Once there was a town where no-one was allowed to dance. The elders decreed that it was too dangerous for its young citizens. It was a horror story like no other. Until one person changed it all…

Shakin’ like a Bacon, Jade Duffy burst onto the scene four years ago and saved our damned souls with the now-famous Bodyelectricdance Studios. These days you can’t bust a move in Melbourne without bumping into someone who dances with the cult phenomenon, or knows someone who does.

During the day, the Bodyelectricdancers walk among us. They are our teachers, our IT professionals, our architects. But at night, they transform into synchronised zombies, slaves to the beat and hungry for your brains… or, applause. Like ALL the best cults, anyone can fall victim to its addictive dance routines and out of control costumes.

This Halloween the Bodyelectric dancers will duel it out on stage at the Palace Theatre for your horrific pleasure. Zombies, psychopaths, mummies and bad-ass bitches shaking their rotting jelly to all the retro hits. We spoke to all-dancing, all-knowing cult leader Jade Duffy, to find out more about tonight’s mega ‘Fright Night’ dance-off/party.

Do you miss performing yourself?

I find I miss performing the most when I’m side stage watching my dancers give it everything they’ve got on night of the Dance Off! I’m also slightly envious that I miss out on being part of each creative, expressive ensemble and other things like Stitch & Bitch sessions, make-up tutorials and the rush of performing in front of a crowd.

Tell us about a wardrobe malfunction?

I’ve seen a boob or two pop out of a costume in the final moments of a dance.

What is your fave song to cut loose to?

I like to choreograph to songs of the past, predominantly ’70s, ’80s and ’90s. I like to choreograph to music that’s uplifting, has a strong emotional element, an expressive quality and a good solid beat. We’re also delving into a bit of lyrical contemporary and it’s been fun researching some slower, moodier tracks. I generally choreograph to music I’ll love on the dance floor. They are all songs that move me!

Are you excited about Body Electric performing at the Metro (the Palace)?

I’m thrilled to be holding a show at the Palace. I still remember going to a Blue Light Disco there… It’s a beautiful, atmospheric building and has a great rock star feel to it. The dancers will feel like they are famous!

Are you dressing up for Fright Night?

I’ll be wearing some Toxic green heels and a bright red dress, Halloween style from Gorman.

Fave scary movie / character?

I’ve recently been watching Nosferatu the Vampyre by Werner Herzog with the amazing Klaus Kinski as Count Dracula. It’s fantastic!

Which Melbourne icons are judging this year?

We have the very talented Casey Bennetto, performer and writer of Keating the Musical, as our MC for the evening. And some surprise celebrity judges…

Do you accept bribes?

Hrmmm… Maybe…

Bodyelectricdance presents FRIGHT NIGHT at the Palace Theatre, Mon Oct 31, 8pm-5am.
IMAGE: By Victoria Bennett.