Video: I visit the Birmingham nightclub on roller skates and discover some wheely good dance moves
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It's easy to become a creature of habit when it comes to hobbies and entertainment, but there are countless opportunities here in Digbeth in Birmingham to try out something a bit offbeat. Hopefully I won't be too off beat today though as I try busting out some moves here at Roller Jam.
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Hide AdAshleigh Ann-Mills, Assistant Manager at Roller Jam says: “So here at Roller Jam, we're a nightclub on roller skates. Our unique selling point is we have something to offer for everybody, whether you're a beginner or you're an experienced skater.
"We do different nights, like tonight is Turn Down Wednesday, so we have low music, no disco lights, no fog machines, so that it kind of keeps it like a very chilled vibe for those that might have additional needs or don't really like the disco lights or want a loud atmosphere.”
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Hide AdRoller Jam is situated in Digbeth, considered to be the creative corner and is home to many eclectic venues. A popular spot for many rolling revellers across Birmingham, Roller Jam is a relative newcomer to the scene.
Ashleigh says: “We seem to be wanted, we seem to be doing well, so I think because we're another nightclub, but we're a nightclub with a difference, that seems to make us fit in quite well along here.”
I decided to get my skates on and have a go myself, under the tutelage of Zack who exercised great patience in getting me on my feet. After a graceful start I decided to get on the roller rink, and despite a fair bit of wobbling and one or two falls to begin with - I managed to find some sense of equilibrium and try out a few things. Definitely outside of my comfort zone, but with friendly people around me who didn't put me under pressure I think I did myself proud.
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Hide AdRoller Jam continues to grow in popularity and considering the response of those who attend you can certainly see why.
Jessica says: “I absolutely love this place. So we started coming here last summer and the vibe is just like, it's incredible. Like you have people dancing, you have first time skaters and no one judges anybody and everyone helps each other. I'm absolutely terrible at skating and I never feel out of place or judged, it's just so much fun.”
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