Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner was recently spotted showcasing her DJ skills at a popular nightclub in Ibiza, adding a unique twist to her political persona. The unexpected sighting of Ms. Rayner behind the DJ decks came just hours after she attended a meeting with mayors and housing regulators, highlighting her ability to seamlessly blend work and leisure.
Ms. Rayner was captured on video dancing enthusiastically with Australian DJ Fisher in front of a large crowd at the renowned Hi Ibiza superclub. The footage, shared on Instagram by actor and presenter Denise Van Outen, showed the MP for Ashton-under-Lyne singing along to a remix of Gotye’s hit song “Somebody That I Used To Know.” With the DJ’s headphones around her neck, Ms. Rayner appeared to be fully immersed in the lively atmosphere of the nightclub, surrounded by a sea of smartphones capturing the memorable moment.
Despite the ongoing summer recess in parliament, Ms. Rayner had earlier that day shared images of her participation in a meeting focused on expediting the removal of flammable cladding from numerous buildings. Her impromptu appearance at the packed nightclub came amidst discussions surrounding potential smoking bans outside nightclubs and in pub gardens, as well as debates over flexible working arrangements such as the possibility of implementing four-day workweeks.
This is not the first time Angela Rayner has showcased her DJ skills in public. In 2022, she participated in a charity event in Manchester where she competed against Andy Burnham and Steve Rotheram, the mayors of Greater Manchester and Liverpool, respectively. Ms. Rayner played the popular track “Set You Free” by N-Trance, demonstrating her passion for music and her willingness to engage in unconventional activities outside of her political responsibilities.
The deputy PM’s love for music and nightlife was further highlighted during her appearance at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, where she shared anecdotes about her experiences raving in Spain. Ms. Rayner humorously recounted her adventures with a younger crowd, proudly embracing the role of a “grandma” amidst the vibrant energy of the rave scene. Her candid revelations about savoring “lethal” cocktails and enjoying the music and vibes of the moment painted a picture of a politician unafraid to let loose and have fun.
In addition to her DJing skills and love for raving, Angela Rayner’s fondness for vaping and unique cocktail preferences have added colorful dimensions to her public image. Nicknamed the “vape dragon” by her children, Ms. Rayner’s addiction to vaping has become a playful aspect of her personality, reflecting her willingness to embrace modern trends and technologies. Her description of the Venom cocktail, featuring a potent mix of vodka, Southern Comfort, Blue WKD, and orange juice, showcased her adventurous spirit and penchant for indulging in unconventional drinks.
Ms. Rayner’s humorous anecdotes about sharing her lethal cocktail creations with unsuspecting guests, including a local councillor who ended up in the dog’s bed, highlighted her ability to inject humor into everyday situations. Her openness about her vaping habits and cocktail preferences humanized her political persona, making her relatable to a wider audience and showcasing her ability to connect with people on a personal level.
The deputy PM’s foray into the world of DJing and nightlife mirrors a broader trend of politicians engaging in unconventional activities outside of their official duties. Michael Gove, Ms. Rayner’s predecessor as housing secretary, was famously spotted dancing in a nightclub in Aberdeen in 2021, demonstrating a similar willingness to let loose and enjoy himself in unexpected settings. Reports of Mr. Gove’s attempts to avoid paying an entry fee by claiming to be the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster added a humorous touch to his nightclub escapade, showcasing the playful side of politicians when they step out of their formal roles.
Overall, Angela Rayner’s recent DJing stint in Ibiza has added a new dimension to her public persona, showcasing her ability to balance work and leisure while embracing her love for music and nightlife. By engaging in activities that go beyond traditional political boundaries, Ms. Rayner has demonstrated her willingness to connect with people in unconventional ways, making her a relatable and dynamic figure in the political landscape. As she continues to navigate the complexities of her role as deputy prime minister, her passion for music and entertainment serves as a refreshing reminder of the diverse interests and personalities that exist within the realm of politics.
With her unique blend of political acumen and a vibrant personality, Angela Rayner’s DJing escapade in Ibiza serves as a testament to the multifaceted nature of modern politicians and their ability to engage with the public in unexpected ways. As she continues to make waves both on the political stage and the dance floor, Ms. Rayner exemplifies a new breed of leaders who are unafraid to break the mold and embrace diverse interests beyond the confines of traditional expectations.