Angela Rayner, the UK’s deputy prime minister, caught on video dancing with DJ Fisher at hi Ibiza, as actress Denise van Outen shares footage of the night on Instagram

Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner has been spotted cutting loose at one of Ibiza’s most renowned superclubs. The Labour MP was seen energetically dancing alongside Australian DJ FISHER at Hi Ibiza, a popular 5,000-capacity venue on the Spanish island known for its vibrant nightlife.

The scene was captured in a video posted by actress and singer Denise van Outen on Instagram. The footage, which was shared on Thursday night, shows Rayner, dressed in a striking red dress, taking center stage in the DJ booth. The Deputy Prime Minister is seen jumping and dancing enthusiastically to a remix of Gotye’s hit “Somebody That I Used to Know,” while DJ FISHER playfully placed his headphones around her neck. The pair then embraced as the crowd cheered them on.

Denise van Outen’s post, captioned “Including a surprise DJ booth rave up with Angela Rayner,” has quickly garnered attention. The exact duration of Rayner’s stay in Ibiza remains unclear, but she is expected to return to parliamentary duties on Monday as the summer recess concludes.

This isn’t the first time Rayner has publicly shared her love for raving and cocktails. During an interview at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival last year, she recounted a recent trip to Spain, though it was not specified if it was to Ibiza. Rayner humorously described her night out, saying, “The girls I was raving with are half my age, and I was like ‘I’m a grandma’. I was proud of that,” and mentioned staying out until sunrise while drinking vodka to keep up with the pace of the party.

Rayner also spoke about her homemade cocktail, named Venom, which includes vodka, Southern Comfort, Blue WKD, and orange juice. She jokingly recounted an incident where a local councillor ended up curled up in her dog’s bed after indulging in the cocktail, and described herself as “The Vape Dragon” due to her vaping habit.

Rayner’s exuberant behavior mirrors a lighter side of political figures, a trend seen before with other ministers such as Michael Gove. In August 2021, Gove was filmed dancing at a nightclub in Aberdeen, showcasing his own dance moves in a less formal setting.

The Labour Party has yet to comment on the Deputy Prime Minister’s Ibiza escapades, but the footage has certainly provided a rare glimpse into the off-duty life of a high-profile politician.

Analysis

Political: Angela Rayner’s appearance at Hi Ibiza and her subsequent rave with DJ FISHER may seem like a light-hearted incident, but it carries potential political implications. Public perception of politicians often hinges on their ability to balance professionalism with relatability. Rayner’s dance video could be seen as a move to humanize her image, making her appear more accessible and down-to-earth. However, it also risks criticism from those who may view such behavior as unbecoming of a high-ranking official. The incident could prompt discussions on the appropriateness of political figures engaging in high-profile social events and how these actions reflect on their professional roles.

Social: On a social level, Rayner’s rave reflects broader trends in how public figures engage with popular culture. Politicians embracing mainstream entertainment can appeal to younger audiences and show solidarity with the public’s leisure activities. Rayner’s energetic participation in a high-profile event underscores a societal trend where leaders are expected to connect with people on a personal level, beyond the confines of their professional roles. This aligns with a growing expectation for authenticity and relatability in public figures, particularly in an era where social media amplifies every public moment.

Racial: The event does not directly involve racial issues but highlights how public figures from diverse backgrounds navigate social settings. Rayner’s presence in a prominent nightclub may be seen as part of a broader trend where politicians from various ethnic and racial backgrounds engage in popular culture. Such visibility can contribute to a broader understanding of the diverse interests and lifestyles of public figures. However, the lack of direct racial context means the impact on racial discussions is minimal.

Gender: From a gender perspective, Rayner’s enthusiastic participation in a club environment may challenge traditional perceptions of female politicians. Female politicians often face scrutiny regarding their personal choices and behaviors, and Rayner’s dance could be interpreted in various ways. It may challenge conventional expectations of how women in power should conduct themselves, potentially leading to discussions about gender norms and the visibility of women in informal social settings. It also raises questions about how female politicians navigate the balance between personal freedom and public perception.

Economic: Economically, the visibility of public figures like Rayner in high-profile social settings can have mixed effects. On one hand, it highlights the luxurious lifestyles accessible to some politicians, which could lead to discussions about economic disparities and the disconnect between political leaders and average citizens. On the other hand, it can serve as a reminder of the leisure activities that often accompany high-profile careers, reflecting broader societal trends in wealth and lifestyle. The economic impact of such appearances is more indirect, influencing public perceptions of political figures’ lifestyles and priorities.