Retro outfits and ‘90s music videos are making a comeback later this month to raise funds for the Sharing Place.
The Back to '90s Video Dance Party is set for July 29, from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. at The Roller Skating Place in ODAS Park, boasting a concert sound system, strobe lights, and three 15-foot screens playing R’n’B, pop, grunge, and hits from the 1990s.
“Money raised is going to go to the Orillia Sharing Place food bank,” said event organizer Derick Lehmann. “As we see more and more, there's a need all the time, and especially right now, so I thought, you know, what type of summer event can get people out, having a good time and make money for the food bank? ‘90s are huge right now.”
Lehman said he’s bringing in the same company he hired for a high school event 25 years ago.
“We had a lot of fun at the MuchMusic video dance parties back in high school, so, I thought, let's get that company back,” he said. “It's the same company that I hired about 25 years ago to be in our high school gym. They're going to be in the roller skating place: three massive screens, big concert sound system, big lighting system, and just a great party.”
Tickets are available for $20, in advance, through the event’s website, as well as AlleyCats Music & Art (cash only), and will also be available for $25 at the door.
Lehmann, who has previously organized events such as the Ugly Sweater Christmas Bowling Party, said he anticipates a big crowd for the 19+, liquor-licensed event.
“I've organized a number of events, (and) this is probably going to turn into my biggest from an attendance standpoint,” he said. “My goal is to get at least 300; I think we're going to exceed that. The more we get, the bigger the donation … we’re paying for the expenses, and all the rest goes to the Sharing Place.”
The Sharing Place is Lehmann’s charity of choice because of its impact on the community, he said.
“The majority of their donations are going back into the community,” he said. “For every dollar in money they raise, they turn it into five dollars of value. They've got lots of great partnerships with the grocery stores and other providers.”
“They love getting non-perishable food items, and people are welcome to bring that if they like at the event, but part of their ticket cost is going into a monetary donation to them.”
Although the event is taking place at the roller skating rink, Lehmann added roller skating will not be taking place at The Big Event.
The Roller Skating Place is located at 4442 Fairgrounds Rd.
