Retro rager ’80s dance group prepares to party

NORTHERN Rivers mums are busily digging out their hair crimpers, hoop earrings and taffeta skirts for The Cassettes’ 12th birthday bash on November 29.

The ’80s dance group will celebrate with a party at the community arts hub at Byron Community College, with pop-up performances throughout the night and a singalong to such songs as Don’t Stop Believin’, Jack & Diane and Michael Jackson’s The Way You Make Me Feel.

The event will also include an introduction from local comedian Mandy Nolan, who embodies much of what the group stands for.

Mullumbimby-based mum of two Marissa Treichel, who studied contemporary dance at university, began offering classes based on the moves of the era as a creative and fun way for women to exercise and socialise.

“Most people do it because they find Pilates too boring and beige,” she said.

The group is known for their flash mob performances at events throughout the region.

“I noticed when I was going to festivals and events that it was a bit boring when you were waiting for food or lining up for a drink and I thought what they needed was a flash mob,” Treichel said.

So she approached the organisers of the Mullumbimby Music Festival with the idea, and the event was the site of their first flash mob.

They have since performed them at events including Splendour in the Grass, the Woodford Folk Festival in Queensland and the Seven Sisters Festival in Victoria.

Treichel also hosts workshops for corporate groups and special events such as significant birthdays.

“The group may not know anyone beside the person being celebrated so it’s a way to bring people together,” she said.

“As soon as you start dancing to Rick Astley or Cher the positive endorphins start flowing.

“It gives you something to do besides sit around and drink, which tends to be what happens otherwise.”

She is also planning an exclusive one-day retreat for up to 10 people in early 2025.