Catwalk 2020: Launched

A blow up shark, a ball pit, balloons, Jenga, cupcakes and high heels. What do these things have in common? They were all present in Beacon Bar on Tuesday night for the launch of Catwalk 2020.

The theme of Catwalk 2020 is “playtime,” and Beacon was a vision of childhood fun. There were people taking photos in the ball pit, playing Connect Four in the corner, battling with shark and donut floaties, and ordering Catwalk themed drinks at the bar. Before the models walked, the air was electric, everyone clearly waiting for the main event. The music was dim, and the lights were on, so it really did feel like we were waiting for something, like the event hadn’t started yet, which was a bit strange. But all was forgiven when the models appeared.

Around 9pm committee members started asking people to move back, creating a runway space. And then the music got louder, the base so strong I could feel it in my chest, as the models came in from both ends of Beacon Bar. I was expecting them to just come out, pose and leave, but what happened was so much better.

The models came on in sets of four, clad in simple white dress shirts and – for some – black bottoms, with brightly coloured make-up across one eye. They stopped in the centre of the space, and did about thirty seconds of smooth choreography, before heading back out for the next group to come in, the girls walking impressively in their heels. All the models looked confident and cool, perfectly at home on the runway.

The model show lasted about three minutes, and when they all came out for their last walk the crowd was electric, clapping and cheering. Afterwards, the mood in the room was even better. The lights were darker, the music – provided by DJ Greer Ross-McLennan – was loud and energetic. Everyone was high on the excitement of the show.

The event as a whole was a fun night, but is notable more for what it means for the actual show than as an event on its own. These models know what they’re doing, and are clearly having fun doing it. And with so much thought put into the launch, the show is sure to be one not to miss.

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