Kalamazoo Contra Dance

Golden Griffon and Danika Murray

Saturday was a nice day for a drive. Bob Ewald (bass), came over to the McKinneys, and we drove out to Zeeb Road to pick up Renzo (guitar). It's always nice when we can ride together to the further-away events, because we get a chance to go over what we've done, what we want to do for that event, and whatever's coming up. We have so many musical dates on our horizon, and they are so varied! Public contra dances, private weddings, public school history days, Henry Ford re-enacting . . . Lots of planning!


I do always like playing (and dancing) at the old grange halls with the wooden floors, and just all of the historical ambiance. Most people these days, though, seem to prefer modern air-conditioned halls or church basements. The The Oshtemo Grange Hall northwest of Kalamazoo is very much the type of location I love to be in. It has the wonderful wood floors, and a stage we can use without being stuffed with church yard sale merchandise. The huge, steep back steps were a little difficult for my creaky knee, but I made it. Luckily, I don't have to carry the heavy stuff.

With 70+ dancers and fun calling by Danika Murray, the hall was rocking!  These were mostly advanced dancers that seemed to nudge our speed up some. We were definitely pushing it for a few sets, although generally, we like to keep our dance tunes a bit more syncopated and "groovy." All seemed to be having a grand time, and we got no complaints, and lots of compliments!

Once again, trying to upload a video to the blog, but can't get it to cooperate!