Sun Peaks locals collaborate with Morrisey’s Public House for new 50+ dance party 

Studio 50+ is a daring new dance party concept for the over 50s in Sun Peaks. Spearheaded by Morrisey’s Public House, it launches Jan. 24 with an animal-print themed inaugural event. Think: Year of the Cat, Hungry like the Wolf, and Eye of the Tiger!

A professional DJ is curating suitable 70s, 80s and 90s music to create a dance and celebration vibe, dynamically designed to get the older crowd hopping. The idea was born from a private event last winter. 

“While attending a friend’s 70th birthday party last season, a few women were chatting about how great it is to get together with like minded – and like-aged people – and dance,” organizer Julie Kimmel told SPIN. “From this discussion, the Studio 50+ concept was born.” 

The logistics were arranged with Morrisey’s staff – known for their flamboyant style – who loved the party proposal and dress code. 

“I think [Morrisey’s manager] was more excited about the idea than I was when I mentioned that the first theme might be animal print,” Kimmel said. 

With plans afoot for this to be a regular monthly event, she is considering various costume concepts: “I’ll be looking for something slightly different but relatively easy to obtain. Something that many people might already have in their closet and, if not, could easily pick up – like a leopard cowboy hat, or zebra socks.” 

Funky future themes might include tie-dye, psychedelic, fun fur and feathers, or denim and diamonds, leading no doubt to flurries of creativity, wardrobe sharing and trips to Kamloops’ thrift shops. If last season’s Ski Down with a Gown event is anything to go by, this demographic definitely dares to dazzle.  

While dance music typically targets younger audiences in ski resorts elsewhere, Studio 50+ is shaking things up here. 

“Sun Peaks attracts special people: People who are motivated and interested in socializing and trying different activities as well as supporting local establishments,” Kimmel said. “The older crowd grew up during the days of disco, Studio 54, The Underground, etc. Dance clubs were all the rage, and what a great way to get together and have fun.” 

In keeping with today’s trends of active retirements, self care, happiness and lively longevity, Studio 50+ could be another component to keep the Sun Peaks community healthy and connected. 

“What better way to continue to meet fabulous people from all over the world that like to get together to dance, dine and dive right into fun,” Kimmel said.  

The Jan. 24 premiere prance starts at 7 p.m., with the toe-tapping tunes kicking off from 8 p.m. until 11 p.m. Furniture in the back room will be cleared to make way for a big dance floor – allowing for a pile of purses in the centre of course – and wallflowers can take advantage of free pool. The management has requested no Dancing on the Ceiling!

Still the question begs, if Disco Fever is contagious, can the under 50 crowd get their groove on? 

“Although we feel that young people in Sun Peaks already have many options of their own, they would never be turned away,” Kimmel assured.