By Julianne Cuba
Two challengers have entered the rink!
A pair of roller disco parties have laid claim to the LeFrak Center in Prospect Park this summer. But this is no couples skate — the two offer radically different options to those who want to take a spin at the outdoor spot. Dreamland Roller Disco — an adults-only party — rolls out every Friday night, while the all-ages Magic Hour casts its spell every other Sunday afternoon. Which one should high-rollers attend?
The Friday night party uses music, costumes, and hula hoopers to create an enchanting atmosphere that is more magical than Sunday’s lackluster Magic Hour, said Dreamland’s host.
“It’s a completely different experience. My party is more immersive — it transports you into a roller disco dreamland through the visuals and theme and the costume aspect,” said Lola Star. “That party is more of a straight-up traditional roller skating event with a DJ.”
Dreamland Roller Disco has attracted more than 400 people every Friday night since its inception in 2014. And people keep coming back because every party offers something special, said Star.
“Every week is a totally different experience. They are all so different and so amazing, that’s what makes it so incredible,” she said.
Many Friday nights roll back the clock to celebrate the music of previous eras, such as the June 10 event “Boy Bands and ’90s Pop.” Each night offers a costume contest, and some skaters plan their costumes weeks or months in advance, said Star.
“They’re such fabulous, incredible outfits,” she said.
Meanwhile, Magic Hour is not just spinning its wheels. It welcomes seasoned and newbie skaters alike, and boasts disc jockeys that spin out the hottest tunes, including old school hip-hop, disco, and house music for a full party experience, said host Sascha Lewis, co-founder of music site FlavorPill. The party on June 5 will feature Brooklyn rapper Talib Kweli spinning tracks.
“We’re giving people the opportunity put on skates for the first time since they were teens and hear great music, and be in a beautiful spot in the park on the weekend,” said Lewis. “This came from the fact that I lived really close to the park and used to run by the rink, and used to see all the people roller skating and said ‘Wow, we should do it with good DJs.’ ”
The afternoon party also offer extra attractions that appeal to families, said Lewis.
“The Center is beautiful — they have a big water slide area, a water installation area for kids to splash around in, and there’s great food and a bar with outdoor seating,” he said. “There’s a lot to do in the area, it’s got a mini festival vibe to it. It’s multi-generational.”
“Dreamland Roller Disco” at the LeFrak Center at Lakeside [171 East Dr. in Prospect Park, www.lakes
“Magic Hour” at the LeFrak Center at Lakeside (flavo
