Virus usually play The Laundry every weekend, though dancers should ring the venue to be sure the band have not taken an unannounced break.

While Virus are an excellent band, appreciating dancers, The Laundry is a small venue with a small dance floor. While recent renovations at the venue have produced a new, wooden and smoother floor, dancers should remember that this is primarily a pub, and that floor conditions may vary.
As it is a pub/club, the Laundry is often smokey, and the presence of lindy hoppers on the dance floor often encourages drinkers to do likewise. The Saturday afternoon Virus gigs also tend to attract the much older Melbourne jazz community members, making for an odd mix in the venue. Female dancers should note that these older male jazz fans can be unpleasantly sleazy, whilst the younger locals are far more respectful and quite appreciative of dancers' abilities.

The band usually play at a quick dancing tempo (and very appropriate for shag, bal and faster lindy hop), interspersed with slower ballads, blues and slow drags.

This is not an event frequented by many dancers if you're thinking of going, but have no partner with you, suggest an outing on the swing talk board.

Where? The Laundry is located at 50 Johnston St Fitzroy (ph 9419 7111), between Brunswick and Nicholson Streets.

Transport? The venue is easily accessed by the no.19 tram down Nicholson St or the no.96 tram down Brunswick Street, or by the 200, 201 or 207 buses down Johnston Street.
Parking is a little more difficult, though metered parking is available on Brunswick St.

How much? Entry is free.

When? Virus have a residency at The Laundry, playing every Saturday afternoon from 4pm - 7pm. The band are usually best in their second two sets. As the band leader Chris Tanner is a renowned clarinettist, he is often away overseas. Virus is definitely better with Tanner's leadership, and often does not play at all when he is away. Dancers would do best to ring the venue to confirm the gig and avoid disappointment.

Bar? The Laundry is a full bar, though its prices are in keeping with the fashionable Fitzroy range. There are a range of more interesting beers on tap.