Electric Skate-aloo: Down & Derby Roller Disco at the Echoplex

— by Caroline on Crack

When I was a kid I was big time into rollerskating and would often hit the local roller rink to channel my inner Kira (Olivia Newton-John’s rollerskating muse character in Xanadu). I may not have known how to do inverted spins or double axles but I could at least do the sprinkler while skating in a big oval. Haaayyy!

It’s been a loonnng time since I boogied down on quads but this Thursday the Echoplex will be transformed into one big retro rollerskating party thanks to monthly roller disco, Down & Derby!

Disco tunes will be provided by resident skate guards, Thee Mike Bee and Steve 1nder. And yes, there is a dress code (from the site):

Guys: Knee high tube socks, neon tank tops, headbands, wristbands, fros and flat tops.

Girls: Thighs of steel on two-inch wheels, with striped shorts to seal the deal.

You know I’m all about that! I’m thinking of going with my turquoise shorts and matching striped knee-high tube socks and sequined tank top.

If you don’t feel like digging out your Riedells from storage, there will be some skates for rent at the event. But there are only about 200 available, so get there early to secure a pair.

Admission is $10 at the door or $5 when you rsvp.

Feeling shy about hitting the rink without much know-how? Lucky for you there will be an hour-long skate class before the event where you can pick up some dance moves on wheels. To sign up for a lesson, email info [at] skateschool.com.

EVENT: THURSDAY, AUGUST 20 from 10pm to 2am

The Echoplex
1154 Glendale Boulevard
Los Angeles, California 90026 (map)