When it comes to iconic music moments, few names hold as much reverence as ABBA. With a legacy spanning decades, the band has not only influenced pop music but has also served as a cornerstone of queer culture. ABBA’s latest venture, ABBA Voyage, continues to push boundaries, creating a one-of-a-kind concert experience that blends music, technology, and the sheer joy of coming together. And for one night only, GAY TIMES hosted a pre-concert party like no other in the VIP Oceanbird Lounge at ABBA Voyage.
As part of our partnership, some of the most exciting names in LGBTQIA+ culture descended on London’s ABBA Arena for a celebration of music, unity, and unapologetic queerness. With familiar faces in attendance including the likes of Layton Williams, Romy, Riyadh Khalaf, Tobie Donovan and Jenny Walser from Heartstopper, Stuart Armfield and Francis Haugen, legendary nightlife queen Princess Julia, alongside other community talent.
Guests were treated to a special pre-concert DJ set by ABSOLUTE., kicking off the evening with the perfect mix of disco, pop, and queer anthems. The vibe was impeccable, with custom cocktails inspired by “The Singer,” “The Dancer,” and “The Fashionista” – a nod to ABBA’s lasting influence on queer culture.
From the pre-party to the dancefloor, the crowd walked through ABBA Arena’s spectacular light tunnels to the main event – the unforgettable ABBA Voyage, where digital avatars (the famed ABBAtars) of Frida, Agnetha, Benny, and Björn brought decades of beloved hits to life. It was pure pop bliss, with tracks like ‘Dancing Queen’, ‘Voulez-vous’, and ‘Gimme! Gimme! Gimme! (A Man After Midnight)’ serving as the soundtrack to our special takeover.
But the night wasn’t just about the music.
As the evening unfolded, queer icons and allies mingled with fans from all walks of life, everyone united by their love for ABBA’s legacy and their commitment to creating spaces where everyone can be their truest, most fabulous selves.
At GT, we’ve always known that ABBA holds a special place in queer hearts. As Björn Ulvaeus once told us, “We found out quite early that Dancing Queen had become an anthem, and we were very proud that we’d been chosen by the community.” And on this night, that sentiment rang true once again.
At the heart of ABBA Voyage lies the undeniable power of music to bring people together, and for those who joined us, it wasn’t just a concert – it was an immersive celebration of creativity, freedom and unexpected friendships. For anyone who missed out or would like to experience the magic of ABBA Voyage again, dance floor tickets are available here.
Keep an eye on GT’s socials to see for yourself how members of the queer community came together to celebrate like never before.
Until next time – keep dancing, queens!
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