Colorful, hand-painted murals of musicians, musical instruments, and two people holding hands adorn the side of a low building on Benning Road, just east of the Anacostia River. The artwork marks a place — the Chateau Lounge — where for decades couples spent Friday nights hand dancing, a type of swing dance that originated in D.C. in the 1950s.
The building closed in July 2024, but reopened in April under new owners with big plans. Kia Wallace and Lasharn Monroe hope to keep the Friday tradition alive, but also to host other types of entertainment and become a community hub. Since Chateau Lounge’s spring opening, they’ve booked drag shows and go-go bands, but they’ve also hosted community meetings and town halls.
“We’ve got a bigger vision for this place other than just the celebration part,” Wallace told The 51st.…