If you drop into conversation the fact that you’re spending your Friday night watching Village People perform at the Zoo, there are a couple of standard responses you can expect to hear. Reactions generally range from, “The zoo, as in the place with animals?” and “I’m secretly very jealous” to “Are they the ones who sing YMCA?” and “Wow, those guys are still touring?”.
Despite the heavy rain that afternoon, the lawn was packed tight with eager fans looking to claim prime position for the show, and those who’d settled in with their picnic blankets and camping chairs immediately jumped to their feet as soon as the group took the stage. Amazingly, the rain stopped right on cue, just as the group launched into their first song. “The kangaroos are probably wondering what the hell is happening,” quips one of the members.
Village People have become a staple of ‘guilty pleasure’ playlists over the years. The group’s infectious disco anthems appeal to all generations, and you would struggle to find a gig with a more diverse crowd – from families with toddlers, young couples and groups of teenagers, to a buck’s party and those who were probably dancing to YMCA in the group’s heyday.
Only two of the group’s original members remain – Felipe Rose, the Native American, now 61 and Alex Briley, the soldier, who turns 68 next month. The other members have slowly been replaced over the group’s 38-year history. “How many of you were still in nappies during the 70s?” the construction worker asks. “How many of you weren’t even born yet? Well, to you I’m probably Bob the Builder.”
The group made their way through their steady stream of pop hits from the past, each song drawing a cheer of delight from the crowd. Macho Man was the first big hit of the night, kickstarting the all-in dancing and singing that would ensue throughout the entire set. San Francisco (You’ve Got Me) and Can’t Stop The Music were the next big crowd-pleasers before American and Australian flags and a tonne of glitter were brought to the stage for In The Navy. Go West featured as the first song in the encore before the group asked for “crowd requests,” which of course had everyone crying out for YMCA. Anyone who’s ever been to a wedding or a 40th birthday can surely imagine what happened next – “YOUNG MAN.”
There’s something ridiculous about seeing 60-year-old men in trashy costumes (some that fit better than others – looking at you Felipe Rose) performing synchronised dance routines, but you still can’t help but smile and sing along. Let’s be honest, who can ever resist raising their hands in the air anytime YMCA is played.
BY KELSEY BERRY
Photo by Mark Stanjo
Loved: Synchronised dance moves.
Hated: That the Butterfly House was closed.
Drank: Nowhere near as much as the leather-clad guy standing next to me.
