Starting as a radical queer DIY collective in Hackney Wick, Body Movements now find their new home in Southwark Park to become London's first outdoor queer dance music festival.
With humble beginnings as a mere gathering in Hackney Wick, it soon became a multi-venue day festival in the area before gaining enough traction to find their new playground in Southwark Park. Trading the warehouse vibe for the hissing of summer lawns, Body Movements now make their stand on the musical map.
Showcasing the best in queer dance, the line-up is a bag of joys for the community: COBRAH, Confidence Man, Saoirse, Shanti Celeste, THEMPRESS, Or:la, GIDEÖN, and ISAbella to name a few of the big ones from a line-up with over 50 artists. Body Movements have been pulling in a glut of artists for a while now, but the pedigree of these acts and the sheer quantity is never before seen for these enthusiastic organisers.
The production value gets a boost as well, with high-end rigs and specially designed stages to accommodate the acts, in what is described as ‘the playground of our dreams’. Expect some seriously good visuals backed by top-tier soundsystems (though, since it is a London festival, don't expect it to blow your ears wide).
Beyond the enjoyment, Body Movements are committed to donating to noble causes. They have previously supported London Trans+ Pride, Palestine Children's Relief Fund, Play They Magazine, Stonewall Housing, Gendered Intelligence, We Exist Emergency Help Fund for the Trans Community, and this year their Body Movements Community Fund will go toward a plethora of causes. They have already raised £30,000 and the festival is far from beginning.
Their communal ethos expands to their customers too. They offer discounts and accomodating for unemployed and low-waged attendees, holding back tickets for those in need. A festival that truly cares about its community and its people, Body Movements put their money where their mouth is. Students get discounted tickets, and standard rate is only £50, which, for London, is now considered a bargain.
One of the most exciting festivals on the London map, Body Movements will hopefully be a staple for years to come. This however can only happen with your support. So get on down!!!