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Calling Kevin Bacon

By Bob Currie

From a November 7, 2002, letter by Bob Currie, director of the Community Protection Department of the City of Westminster, to Charlotte Renwick, manager of the Ship Public House, a London pub. In Britain, dancing is prohibited in establishments without a license for "public entertainment." The letter was featured in The Publican, a newspaper for the British pub industry.

Dear Ms. Renwick,

On both occasions when Officers visited your premises they observed persons dancing to the recorded music that was being provided—nine (9) on the first occasion and six (6) on the second—resulting in the issue of two "Unsatisfactory" inspection forms.

In general terms, dancing would be described as the rhythmic movement of the legs, arms, and body, usually changing positions within the floor space available, whether or not accompanied by musical support. However, in law, whether or not a person was dancing is subject to the "reasonable man" test, the weight of evidence presented by the prosecution, and the decision of the court.

It may be of interest that in London there is legislation that requires a dance licence to be granted for still nude posing.

I acknowledge the measures you are taking, namely displaying no dancing signs and instructing staff to ensure that persons heed those signs. The Officers also suggested you change the style of music to dissuade customers from dancing.

Yours sincerely,

Bob Currie

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SEE ALSO: Amusements; Bars (Drinking establishments); Dance

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