Deseret News | Church dances not like they used to be

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Church dances not like they used to be

EM | 7:25 a.m. June 11, 2009

Back in the "old days" I loved going to Stake Dances every Saturday evening - I loved to dance, but then I knew how. I was taught how to dance by my parents; and we also had dance directors who taught the youth to dance. I remember the floor shows we used to have and the Golden Green Balls - what fun they were. Not too sure what happened - maybe we just got too old or just too busy to continue the tradition. Kids don't know how to dance, all they know how is to stand and huddle, or gyrate in such a way as to make fools of themselves. All they know how to do is to "hang out". I'm now 60 plus, and still love to jive, waltz, and even tango. I say bring back the Dance Directors!!

Anonymous | 8:34 a.m. June 11, 2009

Robert Just

Robert Just | 8:40 a.m. June 11, 2009

I couldn't agree more about the present state of the dance. I belong to a square dancers' group for the blind here in Toronto and have been enjoying it for 10 years. I am also 60+.

Comments continue below

Anonymous | 8:47 a.m. June 11, 2009

I am happy in inform that you would be very pleased with the youth in Oak City, Utah. They have 'old time' dances two or three times a year, plus the much anticipated Oak City Days Dance the 3rd Saturday in August- It has been going on for years! They dance several of the 'old' dance with great enjoyment! A delightful sight to behold and participate in.

The kids will dance | 11:21 a.m. June 11, 2009

The kids will dance at stake dances when the electric slide and other line dances come on. They are easy to pick up and everybody is on the floor then.

The secret to a dance activity for mutual is to make it fun -- do the line dances first, then an easy couples dance to get over the "I'm touching a girl/guy" heebie-geebies; then get into the steps of a swing dance. The kids will actually enjoy it, although they will grumble. Part of the problem as young adults/young marrieds is that there are few places to dance that don't involve alcohol. Where are they in SLC? I want to email my husband a list :-)

Anonymous | 12:16 p.m. June 11, 2009

They were called "Gold and Green" balls, not "Golden Green" balls.

kenny | 2:13 p.m. June 11, 2009

Right, they were called "The Gold and Green Ball" I have a hard time walking through our stake center today without my mind going back to those good old days.

jim snead | 3:05 p.m. June 11, 2009

It was different in Richmond, Va in the 60's and 70's. No slow or close dancing, it was considered
"vulgar" by the little old women and Bishops.
That's one reason I left.

A devoted dance attender... | 3:14 p.m. June 11, 2009

I for one am a teenager who LOVES dances! I think the key to making dances great is just that. The teens themselves have to want to make it great. They have to be willing to go out there and just have fun. It also helps when you have friends or a group to dance with. If you can find a couple of people who like to dance, you can have an amazing time. Another key is you have to be willing to leave your comfort zone. There is nothing about dancing that is "comfortable" for most people who are just beginning to dance. If you're truly having fun, it will show when you dance.

As far as dancing in couples, I for one have done both waltzing and the simple side-to-side dancing as well. I actually like both. Waltzing is fun as far as the movement goes, but the side-to-side dancing is fun simply because you actually get to talk to the person you dance with. Its also a great way to meet new people!

Anyway, thats my opinion on the matter. :D

Bill | 6:23 p.m. June 11, 2009

To Jim Snead:

I think it is attitude that makes or breaks a dance. Even today a hands width is basically a requirement when doing a slow dance. Nothing wrong with that. Honestly I have been to dances today and back in the day. Most would prefer the slow dances and couples dances even then so I really must say I disagree with the comment. Since, I wasn't there I can't say it didn't happen but my knowledge of the Church and its dances tends to lead me to say that there is really more to it than what you are telling.

adan | 7:29 p.m. June 11, 2009

Card has the problem right (dances today are lame), but his prescription is all wrong. Rather than try to bring dances back to the 1960s, we need to see a bit more creativity in planning activities for stake youth. I was a teen in the 1990s and went to dances because I didn't have much else to do. But hardly anybody went, so they were always lame.

Why continue holding a dance each month? Why not experiment with things like volleyball, speed dating, talent shows, and other activities that are actually interesting and fun?

Jen | 11:31 p.m. June 11, 2009

I absolutely loved going to our stake/tri-stake dances. I would mark them on my calendar and count down the days! I was with my friends; looking forward to making new friends and just spending time with others who believed the same as I. I always had such an awesome time, I miss being able to go now and miss my friends, but the memories always pop up and bring great a big smile to my face. Dance! Have fun! God Bless.

Anonymous | 1:54 a.m. June 12, 2009

When the church was first organized, were the dances held in an dark room with the music so loud that it hurts? Did people dance so close to romantic music?

They probably used to swim too, but I'll bet they didn't look like we do.

The only kids I know that really like a dance are the kids who are on dance team, and they only like to dance with other dance team members. It is a pleasure to watch them and it looks like good wholesome fun and great exercise. That is the kind of dancing that I could approve!

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