A seaside town in Suffolk has joined the growing trend of early morning dancing, launching a series of events designed to let people party without the late-night hangover. The Coffee and Clubbing initiative in Felixstowe invites residents to enjoy music and dancing at 09:00, a concept that has previously gained traction in major cities like Berlin, Sydney, and New York.
Community Connection Over Nightlife
Event founder Vanessa Fullerton-Batten moved to the town earlier this year from Hertfordshire with her husband, Ben Kay, who serves as the resident DJ. The couple wanted to create a space that would help bring the local community together, focusing on the social aspect of dancing rather than the typical nightclub atmosphere.
Fullerton-Batten explained that the events aim to capture the energy of 1990s club culture but in a setting that is accessible to parents and older adults. She noted that many people in their 40s and 50s feel out of place in traditional clubs, yet they still crave the connection and joy that comes from moving to music.
“I think there is just this sense of wanting to be connected again,” Fullerton-Batten said. “You can go to the gym, but I think going to something like that you can just come along, you can chat, you can listen to the music – and, of course, you can just dance.”
The events are held at local high street venues, including the Cuppa coffee shop. Each session lasts for one hour, creating a focused and energetic atmosphere. Fullerton-Batten emphasized that participants do not need to be experienced clubbers to enjoy the gatherings, describing them as welcoming spaces for people of all ages.
A Hangover-Free Alternative
Ben Kay, who has produced music and DJed for over 30 years, finds the daytime setting offers a unique perspective on performing. He noted that the daylight allows him to see the audience more clearly, which changes the dynamic of the performance.
“You can see people, so you can see them smiling and dancing,” Kay said. “It doesn’t feel that different to playing in a club, it is just lighter.”
The concept aligns with broader health and wellness trends that prioritize physical activity without the negative side effects of alcohol and sleep deprivation. Local fitness entrepreneur Susannah Hinchey, who runs silent disco walks and evening dance classes, supports the idea of moving to music as a form of exercise.
Hinchey pointed out that dancing triggers the release of happy hormones, providing a mood boost similar to that of a night out but without the physical toll. She runs indoor classes that mimic the nightclub vibe in the dark, allowing participants to experience the energy of a rave without the sore feet or hangover associated with late nights.
Fullerton-Batten hopes to make the Coffee and Clubbing events a regular monthly fixture, rotating between different local businesses such as bakeries, restaurants, and bars. An afternoon session is already planned for the near future, further expanding the opportunities for residents to engage with the community through music and dance.
Source: BBC
