Bushwick's Xanadu Roller Arts, a local roller skating rink known for its "intergalactic cruise ship" vibe, is adding another dimension to its repertoire; come April 22, it will host Reworked Runway, a unique fashion show marrying dance, music, and sustainable fashion right on its maple rink floors, but this time without the wheels. According to Gothamist, the third installment of this fashion-meets-dance event aligns with Earth Day and will feature nine local designers whose collections emphasize sustainable creation, celebrating both Earth-friendly practices and indie expression.
With a ticket entry starting at around $36, the evening hosted in the heart of Bushwick aims to blend the city's indie culture with a message advocating for sustainability, Liv Reinertson, the East Village native behind the event, has designed a space where the intricate choreography of dancers highlights the practicality and beauty of handmade clothing, all while a live band adds to the ambience, according to Gothamist.
Xanadu has played a pivotal role in reviving NYC's love for skating, recapturing the essence of historic spaces like Roxy and Empire Roller Skate that have long shut their doors. The rink provides a space for individuals to adopt new skating personas, engage in high-energy battles, and explore various styles from Speed to Jammin'. According to a Brooklyn Paper interview, Tracy Mitchell, a skating legend, expresses love for Xanadu's inclusivity and how it preserves traditions within the Black community, an element of heritage and resistance since the 1970s.
As these designers embrace an upcycle philosophy, "all of the pieces in the show are reworked, all handmade, sustainable upcycled garments," Reinertson emphasized in her remarks to Gothamist.
