When planning an event, the entertainment you provide can make or break the experience. One increasingly popular option for parties, corporate functions, weddings, and festivals is dance machine hire. Whether you’re aiming for high-energy fun or just looking to give guests something interactive and memorable, hiring a dance machine can elevate your gathering in a unique way.
In this article, we’ll explore the uses, benefits, and potential drawbacks of dance machine hire, helping you decide if it's the right fit for your next event.
What is Dance Machine Hire?
Dance machine hire refers to renting interactive arcade-style machines that challenge players to follow dance steps displayed on a screen, usually by stepping on corresponding foot pads in time with the music. These machines are often referred to as dance arcade machines, dance simulators, or dance video games, and they’ve been made popular by titles like Dance Dance Revolution (DDR).
They can be set up indoors or outdoors depending on the venue and usually come with a technician for setup, maintenance, and takedown. Some hire services also include lighting, sound enhancements, and even customizable song lists.
Common Uses of Dance Machine Hire
1. Private Parties
From birthday bashes to anniversary celebrations, dance machine hire is a hit among guests of all ages. It keeps the energy high and provides a break from traditional party activities like eating or mingling.
2. Corporate Events
Companies are always looking for ways to boost morale and promote team bonding. Dance machines offer a fun, informal way for employees to relax and interact, making them a great addition to team-building events or office parties.
3. Weddings
Weddings are all about celebration, and a dance machine can add an unexpected twist to the reception. It’s a perfect activity for guests who may not want to hit the dance floor but still want to participate in the fun.
4. School Events and Fundraisers
Dance machines are a great fit for school discos, proms, and fundraising events. Their interactive nature makes them appealing to younger crowds, encouraging participation and excitement.
5. Festivals and Fairs
At public events with large crowds, dance machine hire can attract attendees to specific zones, increase engagement, and serve as an entertainment anchor alongside other attractions.
Advantages of Dance Machine Hire
1. Interactive Fun for All Ages
One of the biggest advantages of dance machine hire is its universal appeal. From kids to adults, anyone can jump in and have a good time. The simple gameplay makes it easy for beginners, while advanced difficulty levels keep it exciting for seasoned players.
2. Healthy and Active Entertainment
Unlike many passive forms of entertainment, dance machines encourage movement. They’re a fun way to stay active and burn calories while competing or just enjoying the rhythm.
3. Minimal Space Requirement
Most dance machines require only a moderate amount of space, making them suitable for both large venues and smaller gatherings. As long as there’s room to move and a power supply, setup is usually straightforward.
4. Customization and Branding Options
For corporate or promotional events, many services offer branding options. You can customize the machine’s visuals or include your company logo, creating a seamless integration into your event’s theme.
5. Technician Support
Most dance machine hire packages come with on-site technical support to handle setup and troubleshoot any issues, which means you don’t have to worry about the logistics.
Disadvantages of Dance Machine Hire
1. Noise Level
Dance machines can be loud, especially in enclosed spaces. If your event is centered around speeches, conversation, or more subdued entertainment, the noise level might become a distraction.
2. Power and Setup Requirements
Although they don’t take up much space, dance machines do need a stable power source and sometimes a flat surface for setup. If your venue is in a remote location or outdoors, this could complicate arrangements.
3. Cost
While many find dance machine hire to be well worth the investment, it’s important to factor in the cost, which can vary depending on the duration of the hire, location, and any extra features you include. For tight budgets, it might not be the first choice.
4. Potential Queues
At busy events, dance machines can become so popular that long queues form. To prevent guest frustration, it might be necessary to monitor usage time or consider hiring multiple units for large gatherings.
Tips for a Successful Dance Machine Experience
Choose the Right Package: Look for hire companies that offer flexible packages suited to your event size and duration.
Check the Playlist: Ensure the machine comes preloaded with a variety of songs to suit different age groups and musical preferences.
Announce Dance-Offs or Competitions: Adding a little friendly competition can increase engagement and make your event more memorable.
Position Strategically: Place the machine in a visible and accessible area, but away from quiet zones like dining or speech areas.
Conclusion
Dance machine hire is a fantastic way to inject excitement, energy, and a touch of nostalgia into any event. It offers a rare combination of entertainment and physical activity, making it a crowd-pleaser across all ages. While there are a few considerations such as space, cost, and noise, the benefits usually outweigh the drawbacks.
If you're looking to add a fun, interactive feature that guests will remember long after the event ends, dance machine hire might be the perfect choice. Just lace up your dancing shoes and get ready to move!