I'm so glad this place was recommended at dinner! When you walk up you can see all the beautiful people on the patio having a blast! Being out there was like a whole different club. Very reasonable cover and everyone I interacted with from the front door to the bartenders were hospitable. If you didn't bring cash to tip at the drag show, no worries there's an ATM at the front door. Restrooms are nice and clean and very well positioned. There were a couple different rooms with differing music and vibes and I was here for it! The drag show was one of the best I've seen in quite a while! Those ladies were workin it! The vibe inside everywhere was nice and warm which definitely matches the locale. Definitely suggest checking it out! Cool people cool music great atmosphere. read more

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This place is so much fun. They have Drag Shows 5 nights per week and they are amazing. We go there often and I would recommend for anyone looking for a good time. They also have incredible special guests weekly read more

Play - Alaska from RuPauls Drag Race - Dance Clubs Near Me - Louisville, Kentucky

If you want to Dance, Play is the place to play! Great entertainment, hot dj's and fast cocktails!

What a night!!! You better work!!!! lol had a blast as always! Show stoppers! Dance floor was a little musty but that was people's choice to come out like that... but had an amazing time met some great people and danced liked everyone was watching!!! Bartenders were getting the drinks perfect!!! I did have to ask for water and lady was not happy with me but I was hot... lol I would of ordered a drink with her but she wasn't too nice about me waiting (helped people who came after me and I stood patiently waiting even though it had been my turn) for water but that's okay.. I won't ask again... read more

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The music was insanely loud, like literally unbearably loud the queens were so good & drinks were so good but at one point they randomly turned up the speakers & bass to a point where you literally couldn't hear the lyrics of the songs and it felt like eardrums were gonna burst going up to the stage to tip the queens. Also I'm not even old I swear I never complain about volume level at the club, multiple ppl were holding their ears bc it was wayyyy too loud. If they fixed that I would've stayed all night it was lovely. read more

Literally the best bar entertainment in the whole state. The bartenders are super friendly. Shoutout Travis and Armani. Plus the home of the beautiful legendary and total badass mother Lexi Love (not the AI cunt) read more

Weird how they don't have a kitchen and made my friend throw away a pizza he ordered while the staff was ordering food all night. Also weird how the "security" guy was surfing on grindr all night and throwing people out of the bathroom. I'm sure if he had been invited it would've been ok. read more

My friends and I bought our tickets online to see Nymphia Wind, since she won RuPaul's Drag Race and she's Taiwanese. Upon coming here, we stood in line. It moved fast though! Once we got to the door, they scanned the code in our email. It was $20 online, but with tax it came to be around $22 ish. If you pay at the door, it's cash only. But they have an ATM inside. When we walked in to the main stage area it was pretty packed but we could still get a good view of the stage. I didn't purchase a drink but one of my friends got some for us so I can't speak for how much it costs. In general, the bar had a line. The only time it wouldve been easier to grab a drink was when there was a drag performer since most people would be too distracted. One issue I had was that the room with the main stage was warm. Not much ventilation at all. With it being so crowded and so many people close together, it was less than ideal for me. Only in the other room where you have room to dance were they blasting the A/C. It was less crowded in there and the bar on that side wasn't as busy. Bathrooms were clean! Then again, we got there early. I never went back later that evening to see if it got a bit messy. Parking was easy but again, we got there early. You can park across the street in the parking lot. read more

Wow! After a $15 cover charge I was a little skeptical. But this place was WORTH it! Top caliber performances in a show that lasted well over an hour. Each performer was serving looks and talent. The stage is enormous yet they worked every inch of that floor. The bartenders were friendly and drinks were very reasonable and The host was spot on my stomach hurt from laughing so hard. An amazing night; looking forward to visiting their sister club in Nashville. This place is huge, everything shouted you're here to have FUN! read more

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Always have a good time at Play!! Vibes are always there, they have security when you walk in. There are multiple rooms to be in & outdoor patio as well. The main stage room is the most popular one & when there is intermission the dance floor room fills up quickly. The bartender are great & friendly. I got this drink they had on the counter already mixed, that sounded good. The bartender told me to try it first to see if he needs to fix it, it was lil tart at first but he added something & mixed it up & it was perfect! We had a great time & enjoyed the performers & a bit of dancing. read more

Play - a neon sign in the middle of a room - Dance Clubs Near Me - Louisville, Kentucky

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Play Louisville in Louisville Kentucky. This is an amazing night club for everyone. Not just for the LGBTQIA+ community. They welcome everyone with open arms and they just want to see everyone have a good time. This night club is for 18 years and older. You must be 21 years old to drink. Play Louisville is in the nulu neighborhood near downtown. There is free parking to the night club. As you enter, you do have to pay a cover fee. Depends on the night or event, the cover fee can be $5-$20 per person. It's cash only! They do have an atm machine available near the front door. After you pay the cover fee, they will give you a wrist band. One will be for 18 through 20 years old and the other wristbands for 21 and over. After you put the wristband on. You have two options, you can go left which the theater for drag queens or right which is the dance floor for the club area. Each room has a bar inside so you don't have to go far to get a drink. They also have another room on the left that looks like a chill room (relax room) and patio for smoking. That room also have a bar too. They do have two locations for bathrooms. One in the theater and the other in the chill room. It's really easy to navigate through the building since it's a complete cycle. The theater is the best part about play Louisville in my opinion. They have booths on each side of the stage and tables all around floor. The bar is in front of the stage. Like literally, this is the best club for a drag show. I have been to so many other clubs that performs drag and Play Louisville hit this setup out the park. I have been to NYC clubs, Miami clubs, LA clubs etc. but Play Louisville is the best for any drag show out there! You do have to pay for the booths and you can reserve the tables which they are reserved and taken on busy nights and major events but the room is so big that standing up isn't a problem. On Saturday's, the room does get full just a FYI but still big enough without feeling you need to leave the room. All the drag performers are amazing and very talented. If you want to have a good time. I highly coming here for the drag show! The nightclub is just like any other nightclub in my opinion. You have the Dj, lights, drinks, people dancing. So to me it's just a nightclub. On Sundays, they do have Latino Night I believe in the night club. Just to warn you, when you are dancing. You shoes will get sticky. People drops their drinks all the time on the floor. The employees are wonderful. I never have any issue with them at all. The owner also goes there sometimes during busy days. It's nice to see someone enjoy what they do with their business. The place is clean beside when people drop their drinks but that's just normal for people getting drunk. The bathroom can get bad during busy hours of the night. Like I said in my previous comment. It's drunk people. What can you do. Make sure to visit the best club all around! I highly recommend this amazing club! Overall 5/5 read more

Play - Play Louisville stage - Dance Clubs Near Me - Louisville, Kentucky

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I'm not sure how we could make it more safe because there are definitely men in there standing around on the dance floor trying to choose women to do God knows what to. Cool shows, pricy drinks. Wish they would play more Black music and not just the ones white people find trendy. I always have a good time. read more

Had a blast at Play celebrating Leo's "2023 best of winners." The space is amazing. Huge dance floor on one side of the venue, a large area with stage on the opposite side with tables and elevated seating on both sides of the stage, bars in both areas. A front room as well as a patio with outside seating. As part of the celebration, they performed a drag show that was fabulous, talented dancers, with beautiful makeup and gorgeous outfits. Also, we got to see a local comedian as well as the cirque Louie troupe preform various acrobatic acts. My first time in the venue and it did not disappoint. Street parking and a lot across from the venue. read more

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Play by far has been one of the best drag shows I have ever been to! My friends and I rented out a booth and it was very spacious for 20 people. We had a great view of the stage and easy access to the bar. It was Mardi Gras themed, which was super fun however you needed a mask to get free entry. Unfortunately we weren't aware of that so we had a 15$ cover fee.The vibes in there were magical, all of the drag queens put on such an amazing show. Ms Lexi Love was by far my favorite, her outfits, roller skates and presence were to die for. If you ever find yourself in Louisville and need a great source of entertainment, go to PLAY! read more

Play - Dance Clubs Near Me - Louisville, Kentucky

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I don't go out so much these days, and even less so to clubs and gay bars because HOH-LEE SHIRT does it end up being SO expensive. But when I do go out, oh man do I have a great time! There is always a cover, and sometimes it will surprise you how high that cover price is...because Play draws some nationally-known drag queens who demand a pricier entrance fee. So be aware and be prepared! ALSO...cover is CASH ONLY. They have an ATM on premises, but that is gonna come with a hefty service fee to be sure. Stop at your home bank or get cash back for something at the store earlier in the day to save you money! On a regular night, you can dance your face off in the one room, and watch any of the several drag shows each night. You can reserve a table for the drag performances, which come at a price of about $45/table of four, and that comes with table service. Which is really nice when the shows get going and getting through the crowd to the bar is difficult. Play also hosts special performances on and off...like Acting Against Cancer's Rocky show, among others. Yoga classes, themed dance nights...they are open to it all. A night out at Play is not going to be easy on the wallet, especially if you plan to indulge in some adult beverages. The drinks are pricy, but they pack a punch! But it is always a hoot and hollerin' good time! Certainly worth an indulgent night out every once and again! read more

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A few things. Play has a big dance floor. Biggest in the city, as far as I'm aware. It reminds me of a European dance club. Dig that part of it. Also has a pretty good stage for shows and what have you. So, it's a good, fun time. Beyond that, I would describe it as expensive. A $15 cover (!!!) and drinks that'll set you back a little bit. I would definitely pregame before heading to Play. It really depends on what you want? If you value a good time, you'll enjoy Play. If you value your pocketbook, you may want to go elsewhere. But for what they do, there's nowhere better. read more

Play - Dance Clubs Near Me - Louisville, Kentucky

This place is clean and the cover is a fair price. This isn't my scene (I only come here when I am with someone who enjoys drag shows or there is a fundraiser for someone or something). I think it's great that a lot of community events and community support happen here. This is a good thing. The place is clean and the few staff I've interacted with has been friendly. Otherwise if you're like me and don't like dark, loud places it isn't your spot but if you do then show up. read more

I had a awesome time and atmosphere was wonderful. I enjoyed the shows and the drinks. The prices are reasonable to watch the shows. I recommend that you get there little early to get a seat to watch the Drag show. The drinks are little Pricey but good. The Music was great and I will definitely be back again for Another fantastic drag show . This is a Wonderful place for Entertainment 5 Star ! read more

Play - Dance Clubs Near Me - Louisville, Kentucky

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What can I say that hasn't been said - let me tell you "plenty". This place offers something for everyone. Not only are they lgbtq friendly but positively friendly to everyone who comes through their doors. Drag shows as good as anywhere around, true dance DJs and pool and liquor. I don't what else you need honestly. Also this is not your mamas gay bar - this place is clean and modern. If you are looking for a great place to gather with friends and enjoy yourself then Play of Louisville is it. read more

The staff (not the performers) were very rude. When I asked a question and the answer was "no" I simply said "thank you" (for answering my question) and I got yelled at "NOPE" in response. I came to see a guest queen who is my favorite. The guest and all the performers were great. I paid for the meet and greet and loved meeting the guest. Unfortunately, the staff again, was very rude. The staff person who was helping with the meet and greet told me to hurry because they were "behind schedule" before I even got to the guest. I paid for the meet and greet so I don't appreciate being told to hurry before I even get to the guest. I had my phone in my hand and he told me to " put your phone in your pocket, no selfies"- even though I saw other people take selfies and they did nothing. When I got to the guest performer, they asked my friend to come up on stage as well, for a picture (the guest star was bantering with my friend during her set so they had a rapport of sorts) The staff person (mentioned before) and the photographer dragged my friend off stage like they did something wrong. Yes it was because they didn't pay for the meet and greet but it was just going to be one picture and I found it very rude for the employees to go against to the guest performer. It was very uncomfortable for all of us. Once the photos get returned to us, I see that the staff person that was rushing me and not letting my friend get in a pic per guest star request, got a picture with the guest star. So it really gives the look that he was rushing the costumers so he could squeeze in his own free meet and greet. Which is contradicting to him pulling my friend off stage when the guest star asked for a picture. Would not go back due to the rude staff I encountered but it's a shame because the performers are amazing. read more

I went here last night. I walked around and then i stood and watched people at the dance bar . I went to order a simple cocktail. The bartender was a chubby girl. I ordered one drink . She came back with 3!!! Im like what???? She started to say "oh sorry you only wanted one ???? Hahha Oh nooo, they gonna come out of my paycheck !!!" I felt bad for her so i said okay , dont worry . I drink all three . she says " nooo. They gonna water down and j would have to make you another ones thats gonna come out of my paycheck as well " Wo i said ok !!! Whatever i pay for all three just stop crying about your paycheck !! Or let me drink them if i have to pay for them Worst case experience and scam of my life . Be carefuk with her read more

This place has tons of potential but is slightly out of the "bar district" of Louisville, making it difficult to add it in if you're looking to move around from place to place in a night out. It's in a weird location that I don't recommend walking to. I went on a Thursday, which is amateur drag night as well as being Ladies' Night, and it was pretty dead. The bartender said that Saturdays are the busy, fun nights here. But for Ladies' Night, ladies get in free before 11pm and there are Bud Light buckets (5 Bud Light bottles on ice) for only $10, so that was great. The place itself is really nice. It has multiple rooms. There is a "Theater" for the drag shows, which is a big, open room with a big stage (tons of colorful lights) and tables surrounding it. There is a large, full bar in this room and lots of seating. The other room is significantly smaller and has a pool table and a full-sized bar with a small stage for a DJ to spin. The whole place is clean and has a good overall vibe. Overall, I definitely recommend this place, but I would say try a Saturday night. Or even Friday. Thursdays are too quiet. read more

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Play in Louisville was a very fun bar to visit. They have three areas to keep you entertained too. 1) auditorium for drag shows, events, etc and they didn't disappoint. 2) dance floor/club with a variety of music, also didn't disappoint. 3) lounge a very chill area with music, pool tables, and access to outside; again this area didn't disappoint. I highly recommend this bar as all areas have bars too. My only feedback would be I thought the cover fee was on the higher end but I really had a good time. read more

Fun time. Lots of good acts and the drinks were strong. Lots of straight people i guess that's pretty normal at drag shows nowadays though. read more

Play - Stage - Dance Clubs Near Me - Louisville, Kentucky

Play is a great "girls night out" bar for me and my friends. No matter what night you go on the shows will be fantastic. Wednesday nights are free, which is just awesome, and they always have themed nights every now and then. The drag queens are so fabulous and the ones I've met are super sweet. The bartenders are also very friendly and never fail to make my drinks how I like them. It can get a bit too crowded on Saturday nights, causing you to have to stand most of the night as most of the tables are reserved beforehand. They need to renovate the stage room so they can allow more space for seating. I've only been in the dance floor room once, and I wasn't a huge fan. It doesn't seem like many people ever go in there, and the music kinda sucked; mostly just techno. Play has also been a nice place to go with a couple of my girlfriends after work on a weeknight, just looking to have a couple drinks. It can be either low or high key, depending on what night you go. Overall the performances are always on point, especially when the drag queens imitate celebrities. The inside of the bar is gorgeous, and is always an option for something fun to do in Louisville! read more

Mixed feelings. The venue itself is spectacular. A great stage for the drag show. At least three other bars. Good crowd with a good vibe. Cover the Saturday we were there was $10/person. Drinks are pricey, even for well liquors. The drag show itself was so-so. The MC was good. Always nice when the drag queen can sing, and sing well. Gilda Rabbit has some pipes, the right amount of humor and sarcasm, and the ability to keep the show moving. The other queens were okay. Unfortunately, the stage is large and well done, which means you've got to be a big personality to fill it. They do have energy and put fort the effort. read more

I've been to my fair-share of drag clubs and dance clubs in my lifetime and what sets Play apart is their amazing commitment to this community. Not just the LGBTQ+ community, which should be expected, but all of Louisville. I've been to more fundraisers at Play in the last few years than anywhere else in town (their neighbor, Copper & Kings, is in second place). This business gives so much back to Louisville's non-profits, but does it in a very low-key, non-braggadocious manner. Thank you, Play! Now, I've also been to several drag shows here. My favorite spot is at a table or booth near the stage. Those folks, both house performers and special guests, get out and work the runway for multiple shows a night. Drag performers put countless hours into rehearsals, preparation, and costume design/creation. Please make sure that you and your group are respectful during their shows (no money in your mouth, getting touchy, etc.). Parking in the neighborhood can be tricky on a busy night, so we often go early and have dinner nearby. Drinks at Play are comparable to other dance clubs and the music starts thumping around 9. If you want a fun night of adult D & D (drag and dancing), fill your pockets with $1 and $5 and head for Butchertown. read more

Love this bar... but after tonight's interaction with one of the bartenders throwing money at my one of my closest friends (when he asked for change to tip a queen)- I feel like I don't want to revisit. I've been a loyal client to this establishment and if the bartenders do not have respect for the patrons, then why should we go back. My friend talked to Aiden to clarify the situation. But still very upset. read more

Normally I love going to Play Louisville but after tonight I will not be going back. One of the amateur queens, Lily st drake was so rude to me and my group of friends. She told us we were not wanted or belonged being that all of us in the group are apart of the LGBTQ+ community. Very ignorant and hateful. I thought this place promoted love to the community and a safe place but I guess not. I would of had higher hopes for a place allowing someone to "perform" who is so inexperienced and rude to people who come out to support them. Never again!!!! read more

A fun time dancing and a great drag show! My Complaint is each bar has a different price for the same drink. This is a consistent issue! Tonight my experience really made me question why I went! $10 to get in and then getting shafted on price. To me it's a once in a while place read more

Play - Dance Clubs Near Me - Louisville, Kentucky

So I'm not really a clubbing person, but I've been curious about Play for a few years. A friend of mine wanted to see a show, so I tagged along.... Play did not live up to its reputation. The drinks are some of the most expensive I've had recently and it wasn't a complicated drink (I've bought similar drinks at other bars for a third of the price). They have a few different areas, but the area the main performance area is cramped and everyone kept getting knocked into/getting drinks spilled on then. The drag show was okay, but not great. Overall an expensive and slightly disappointing evening. My friend was really excited about one of the drag queens and seemed to enjoy the show. She was also very intoxicated by the end of the night. read more

If you want to see a drag show, this is the place to go! Definitely some of the best drag in the country. The music can be a bit loud at times (especially the opening song). So I'd recommend bringing earplugs. On this particular night, Celesta was our VIP server. She provided great service throughout the night. However, I was a bit upset when I got our tab. Drinks at this bar can be a bit on the pricey side, but getting a tab with premium drinks on it rather than well drinks was a bit shocking. It would've been nice to know that the default wasn't well liquor. Maybe this was because we were in the VIP booth?? I would've appreciated something like, "Is Tito's okay?" We expect to spend a bit when we come, but not THAT much. Overall, it was a great night. Bring your clack fan girls because it does get warm (and it adds to the fun)! read more

One of my all time favorite dance bars!! Their Drag shows are fantastic and so are the drinks! They also have a quieter area/ outdoor patio. So plenty of options for hangout spaces read more

My partner & I were visiting Louisville & decided to check out Play. Once we got to the door & the doorman said there's a $15 cover, we left. Don't waste your time at any gay bar that has a wack cover. read more

Play is a local gem, promoted as a gay bar, all are welcome here. This is a place of acceptance and love. I am here quite often because Play regularly donates it space for some of the local charities I am involved with - they're always giving back to the local community. The Derby City Sisters do a 1st Sunday of the month bingo here in support of various local charities. And there's always a great drag show...these girls and boys really know how to bring it! If you find yourself at Play, know that the bar staff are fabulous and friendly. This place is clean...even the bathrooms...nothing sketchy here. Check them out and see what they have going on. They even have nights when younger folks can check them out. read more

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$20 for 2 vodka tonics. Didn't ask for top shelf, in fact saw him pour bottom shelf. Maybe you can sneak this false bill by a drunk patron, but one drink later - I KNOW I got ripped off. Didn't feel that I could argue with the bartender in a loud bar, but I plan on CASH next time ... The drag show was amazing - wish I could've thrown those extra dollars to the performers rather than the bartender who over charged me. Have some respect for your patrons. read more

Play - Loved the show, the performers were amazing!! - Dance Clubs Near Me - Louisville, Kentucky

I love Play Louisille! It's such a fun bar and it's beautifully decorated. It's a large space, which makes for lots of interesting things to see and do, and helps with that overwhelming crowded bar feeling you sometimes run into on Saturday nights. Not to say it doesn't become crowded, but more space means more room to have fun! One of the awesome things about Play is that they have multiple sections of the bar to chose from. There's a stage, dance floor, and another bar area that leads out to the patio. While you're there make sure you check out everything! Also, and I see that a few others have mentioned this in their reviews, the bathroom is super cool! I know, that seems weird, but you'll see when you visit. My favorite thing about Play is Buti yoga on Monday nights. (Classes are also offered on Thursdays and sometimes they have special events.) Dana is an awesome instructor and the class is so fun! It's a $10 drop-in fee, and if you forget your mat you can rent one for $2. They play really awesome music and turn on the lights in the dance floor room. I highly recommend everyone check it out! read more

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I enjoy Play so much. But it doesn't deserve 5 stars for one reason; their point-of-sale (POS) system. I will address that in one moment. The good stuff: Arguably, Play is the best club/bar in the city. It has one of the largest dance clubs in town and amazing local DJs. And some celebs too; I saw Boy George dj here after Oaks. They have a huge space to work with and they've used it wisely. Three different sections: the stage area (drag shows), the dance floor, and a quieter bar area with a patio. There different areas, three different atmospheres. And three different bars to order drinks from. ...and therein lies my issue with Play. The bad stuff: I love that there is so much going on at this bar. You can walk around to see different things. Relax on the patio/chill area, dance some, then watch a drag show...but, that means you will probably be ordering drinks from separate sections of the bar. That is a problem at Play. If you are using a card/opening a tab, their system is such that you not only have to order all of your drinks at one bar area, but you ALSO have to order them from the same bartender! I have never heard of a system like this! The bartenders are great and professional but the system holds them back. The only way to get around this is to use cash or to close your tab after every drink you order. Obviously this would be cumbersome. They keep your card behind the bar. So if you don't have cash, you have to go back and find the same bartender every time you want another drink. For a bar that appears to doing so well (and charging a $10 cover), you would think they would have a much better POS system. They are losing money and diminishing the experience for the customer. It's the only black mark, in my opinion. -------------- Also, here is just some other stuff I like about the bar -huge VIP area near the dance floor -lots of lights and hanging things on the walls- the most ornate bar in the city -the coolest bar bathroom I've ever been in- the mirrors have missing sections in them so the men and women are looking at eachother and interacting while at the sinks -the bar is organized in a big circle so you can walk around; it has a great flow pattern -the patio/chill section is much quieter so you can go there if you want to talk with friends -the drag shows are top notch and there are VIP sections in this area as well read more

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Had an absolute BLAST last night for my bestie's Bachelorette Party!! Wonderful experience, yummy drinks, and very clean/safe atmosphere following all necessary COVID protocols. We had several changes to our party leading up to coming, but the staff was VERY helpful, friendly, and accommodating. Highly recommend coming here for your next event! read more

Play is such a beautiful and clean establishment! My first visit was for a hair show I participated in while attending Paul Mitchell the Hair School (don't go there!! Lol). They allowed us to have our charity event for free. My next couple visits were for special events and beautiful queens that came from afar to perform and dazzle! We even pushed gals from our party onstage... Which was hilarious! The costumes and voices will take you to another multiverse and leave you wanting more more and more!!! The owners are also badass and have done so much for the LGBT community. And opening their wonderful establishment in the growing and badass neighborhood, Butchertown. The wifey, Dana, is a buti instructor every Week for glow buti yoga! And is a huge inspiration in the yoga community! I am very thankful to have Play in my city read more