Drag Race icon to host the National Gallery’s first ever DJ set

London’s National Gallery is set to host its first ever after-hours DJ set, and a Drag Race icon is helping to make it an unforgettable night.

The 202-year-old art museum will transform into a late-night dance venue during its “PARTY AFTER DARK” event on 5 February.

Night-owls will have the chance to dance along to an eclectic mix of electronic and pop music under the same roof as the gallery’s more than 2,300 paintings, dating as far back as the mid-13th century.

If that wasn’t enough, the set will be headlined by Soundcloud DJ Mia Lily, as well as RuPaul’s Drag Race UK season 2 star Bimini Bon-Boulash, better known simply as Bimini.

The event comes as part of Art of London’s Art After Dark programme; a week-long celebration of London’s nightlife through a variety of events and exhibits.

Paul Gray, the National Gallery’s deputy director and COO, said he was “delighted” to partner with Art of London for their “significant programme”, highlighting how London’s night life has influenced the city.

“As the nation’s gallery, this event continues our ongoing mission to bring people and paintings together in innovative ways and celebrate art with everyone,” Gray said.

The programme, which takes place from 3-10 February, will also feature public artworks from artist Lakwena Maciver, including a 7-metre-tall tower of stacked disco light boxes smack-dab in the centre of Piccadilly Circus.

Maciver described the installation as a “celebration of joy, community, and the vibrant energy that pulses through London’s music scene,” adding: “I’m looking forward to bringing people together to celebrate and support the culture that defines our city.”

New public artworks will reportedly be unveiled across the West End throughout the programme, including digital artwork displayed on screens across Piccadilly every day.

Tickets for PARTY AFTER DARK are available on the National Gallery’s website. You must be aged 18 or over to gain entry.

Share your story! Do you have an important, exciting or uplifting story to tell? Email us at [email protected]