Troye Sivan has assembled quite an invitation: an English castle, opening narration from Ian McKellen and a sample of Madonna’s Music.
His new Party video brings queer nightlife into a fictional period setting.
But beneath the extravagant surroundings is a feeling that needs very little explanation: the relief of finding somewhere you belong.
A party with a personal meaning
“Partying is actually quite sacred, especially for queer people,” Sivan said in a statement quoted by Queerty.
That thought gives the castle fantasy its emotional connection. For many queer people, a favorite club or bar holds memories far beyond the music that played there.
It might be where you first held someone’s hand without hesitating. Where a new friend introduced you to everyone. Where you realized you could spend an evening enjoying yourself instead of monitoring how you appeared to others.
Familiar names, a new invitation
Madonna’s contribution is a sample of Music, while McKellen supplies the opening narration. Both bring familiar associations to Sivan’s celebration, giving different generations of viewers a way into the party.
The castle is an extravagant backdrop. The longing for connection is wonderfully ordinary.
For those whose first welcoming dance floor came with questionable lighting and a permanently sticky floor, there may be something especially sweet about seeing that feeling given the royal treatment.
Which queer club or bar first made you feel at home?
Image source, for selected video stills: Troye Sivan / Party official music video.
Find more LGBTQ+ stories on B-Gay’s YouTube channel.