The (Heart) Beat of World AIDS Day

Once upon a time the AIDS Crisis gave the LGBT community little reason to celebrate. So many lives were lost to ignorance and bigotry associated with HIV/AIDS, men and woman all across the country had to get together to bring the necessary support to keep everyone safe, educated and alive. While mainstream culture cowered in dark corners in fear, many found ways to bring light to the shadows. It wasn't long before the world would find a way to dance AIDS away!

With World AIDS Day once again upon us, the annual tradition that vindicates the efforts of the world's community to finally end AIDS, the dance community is doing their part to keep the heart beat alive. In effect the timing couldn't be more perfect for a Global Dance Party - the 24-hour event will be kicking off Nov. 30 in Sydney, Australia with stops in London, New York City, Mexico City, Los Angeles and finally reaching an apex in Johannesburg, South Africa.

Part of the (RED) worldwide effort to bring much needed funds, medicine and education to parts of the planet still working to manage the effects of the epidemic, this global initiative is also coinciding with the release of the "Dance (RED) Saves Lives Vol. 2" compilation album which includes remixes from Madonna, Major Lazer, Katy Perry, Calvin Harris, Coldplay, Deadmau5 and more.

The Sydney event will be broadcast live on the Internet and will feature premiere DJ/remix talent. Expect incredible sets from international music makers David Guetta, Calvin Harris, Armin Van Buuren and more who will be manning the turntables at the Stereosonic Music Festival launching the 24-hour Global Dance Party. In London's Freeze Festival (Nov. 30) DJ Madeon will be spinning the latest hits.

In New York City, the infamously popular DJ Mark Ronson will be turning the rapidly becoming legendary space at Marquee into his own rhythmic playground. Manhattanites will be treated to his musical majesty on Nov. 30, and tickets will be selling out fast. Other destinations on the Global Dance Party itinerary include Mexico City, LA and finally Johannesburg which will feature DJ Juicy M.

Though the fabric of the AIDS crisis has changed it is still part of our textured community, and if in the new millennium, folks can gather for a cause and join (RED) in saving lives, there is no better reason to get your dance shoes on! Feel the beat this season and wear (RED).

For additional info on the events associated with Dance (RED) the 24-Hour Global Dance Party go to www.dancered.com.

If you're in New York CIty this Saturday, Nov. 30th get your tickets and join DJ Mark Ronson at Marquee located at 289 Tenth Avenue, between 26th and 27th Street in Manhattan. Tickets on sale at www.marqueeny.com.